Vestavia Hills Police Department

CLOSING TIME: At 11 p.m. tonight, Alabama Department of Transportation is shutting down US-280 in both directions at Pump House Road.

Westbound lanes: Closed until Monday morning
Eastbound lanes: Closed 11 p.m. - 5 a.m. Fri., Sat. and Sun. nights

Eastbound traffic must exit US-280 at Green Valley Road Fri., Sat. and Sun. nights.

All lanes fully open by Monday at 6 a.m.

Check out detour recommendations in the comments below.

At this time, there is full road blockage on Birchwood Dr, full blockage at 2400 block of Monte Vista Dr, partial blockage at Indian Hill Rd near Canton Rd, and partial blockage on Vestclub Dr.

The 2000 block of Pine Crest Drive is temporarily closed due to a downed tree. Crews are aware and are working to clear the roadway.

Vestavia Hills Police Department
Shane Ware Chief of Police

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DATE: May 19, 2026

Month-Long Investigation Leads to Arrests in Organized Vehicle Fraud and Theft Operation

VESTAVIA HILLS, Ala. --
The Vestavia Hills Police Department announces the successful conclusion of a month long investigation into suspected vehicle theft, title fraud, and odometer tampering activities operating within the area.
Over the course of several weeks, investigators employed a combination of investigative techniques, including License Plate Reader (LPR) technology, surveillance operations, intelligence gathering, and undercover efforts to identify individuals believed to be connected to an organized vehicle fraud operation.
During the investigation, undercover investigators met with a suspect believed to be involved in the sale of vehicles with salvaged titles and inaccurate odometer readings. Through these efforts, investigators identified a residence being used to store multiple vehicles suspected of being connected to the operation.
As the investigation progressed, investigators identified several individuals believed to be associated with the vehicle theft ring and ultimately obtained search warrants for the residences.
The ex*****on of the search warrant at locations in the 7000 block and the 2400 block of Colony Park Drive resulted in the recovery of multiple vehicles and evidence related to the investigation. As a result of this operation, the following individuals were arrested for Theft of Property 1st, with additional charges pending;
Amar Serban
Alondra Serban
Ramona Serban
Marius Serban
Marian Dumitru
Bernardo Mihai
Investigators have identified victims from across the southeastern United States who traveled to Vestavia Hills after locating vehicle listings on social media platforms. Many of these victims believed they were purchasing legitimate vehicles, only to later discover issues involving salvaged titles, fraudulent documentation, or inaccurate odometer readings.
The Vestavia Hills Police Department encourages the public to use caution when purchasing vehicles through online marketplaces or social media listings. One of the safest steps buyers can take is arranging to meet prospective sellers at the Vestavia Hills Police Department or another designated E-commerce safe zone. Buyers are also encouraged to independently verify vehicle history reports, title information, and odometer accuracy prior to completing any purchase.
Anyone with information related to this investigation is encouraged to contact Investigator Italiano with the Vestavia Hills Police Department at 205-978-0239 or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers.
The Vestavia Hills Police Department would also like to thank its federal partners for their assistance in this investigation, as well as the following agencies: Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office, Tuscaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, Hoover Police Department, Vance Police Department, Coaling Police Department and the ALDOT Office of Enforcement.

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Media Contact: Captain Mike Keller
Public Information Officer
(205) 978-0185 | [email protected]

Parents – We Need Your Help!

We have recently seen an increase in children operating high-powered e-bikes, e-scooters and other motor-driven cycles in areas where they are not legally permitted or without meeting age and safety requirements. Our goal is to keep everyone safe – riders, pedestrians and drivers.

We absolutely want kids outside enjoying their summer and spending time with friends. At the same time, it’s important for parents and guardians to understand the laws and safety requirements that apply to these devices. Many high-speed electric devices are not considered standard bicycles under Alabama law. Depending on their speed and motor size, they may legally qualify as motor vehicles and require a driver’s license, registration, insurance and/or a DOT-approved motorcycle helmet to operate.

In addition, these vehicles are not permitted on public sidewalks or in City parks.

We encourage you to review the graphics and information below to help identify the type of vehicle your child may be riding. Please take a moment to check the top speed, motor output and where the vehicle can legally be operated before your child rides.
As summer approaches, our police officers will continue focusing on education and enforcement in areas with high activity to help prevent injuries and keep our community safe.

For more information, please review the Vestavia Hills Micromobility Guidelines at https://vhal.org/micromobility-guidelines. Thank you for partnering with us to help keep Vestavia Hills safe and enjoyable for everyone!

UPDATE: Roadway is back open

Both lanes in the 4200 blk of Sicard Hollow Rd. are currently shut down due to police activity in the area. There is no threat to the public. Please find an alternate route.

The non-emergency phone lines will be down in the desk sergeant’s office beginning at approximately 6:00 AM on Saturday morning, May 9th and are expected to be down for the entire weekend. This will not affect our 911 services. If you need to reach the desk sergeant’s office, please call (205)704-5814. We will update the post when the lines are back up.

A tornado watch has been issued for our area. Tornado Shelter #1 and #2 are open and will remain open until the watch is lifted. The shelters are adjacent to the Liberty Park soccer fields at 4750 Sicard Hollow Road.
Please note the shelter rules:
– The shelter will open once a Tornado Watch has been issued for the area.
– Light snacks and bottled water are allowed.
– Parents are responsible for the conduct of their children. Please be respectful and mindful of others.
– No criminal behavior will be tolerated.
– No smoking or va**ng, drugs or alcohol.
– Seating is not provided. Please bring a chair or blanket if needed.
– Occupants must follow the direction of City of Vestavia Hills representatives and/or Shelter Manager(s).
For emergency assistance, call 911. For non-emergencies, call 205.978.0140.

Please join the Vestavia Hills Police Department as we welcome our newest police officer, Officer John Smith. Officer Smith served 22 years with the Jasper Police Department and previously with the Alabama Department of Corrections. He will begin his Field Training and Evaluation Program with VHPD and will join the Patrol Division at its conclusion. Congratulations Officer Smith!

Please join the Vestavia Hills Police Department as we welcome our newest police officer, Officer Wallace Smith. Officer Smith retired from the Birmingham Police Department and also worked with the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office. He has begun his Field Training and Evaluation Program with VHPD and will join the Patrol Division upon completion. Congratulations Officer Smith!