This past weekend, I found a TJ provider on CL.  The price is definatly right for the time you get.  So I got directions, which is the standard meet at McD's across the border, hop in the cab and off we go.

As we pulled into the parking lot for the hotel, the LE pulled the cab over.  After a lot of habla (I no hablo espanio) between cops, taxi driver and girl, the story changed a few times.  First the cabbie was in trouble, but was let go, after I paid him.  Then the girl was in trouble for appearently having a weapon(ice pick with no point) on her.  The cop showed it to me and explained she had it in her purse.  But the girl pulled me aside and said they wanted 150 and everything will be done.

I know Mexican LE can be corrupted and believe I was witnessing it first hand.  I paid the 150 and the LE split.  The girl and I were left to walk away and find another cab.

The second cabbie spoke decent english and was able to translate the girl's story.  She said the weapon was not hers, as I suspected.  The cabbie also said the LE was trying to clean up the streets of TJ.

Long story short, we still had our date as planned, but she discounted the 150 paid to bad LE.  I believe they must of tagged me as I was waiting by McD's and followed.  These guys must know we're packing the dough and may continue this trend to get it from us.

I'm sure this is not well written, but I just want to put the word of caution out there.  The events will not prevent me from going south again, I will just be more discreet.  I will gladly chat with anyone for more details..

Sorry you had a bad experience. It happens, but fortunately not too often.

(Next time buy something and sit inside McDonalds or meet at Calientes instead. Loitering in front of cops anywhere in the world--the US included--isn't wise, especially in a place known for prostitution.)

I believe those who know my handle will attest that I'm an experience TJ monger and for reasons I won't go into on this board I am in contact with many, many other TJ vets. Here's my advice:

TJ cops work off of fear, intimidation, and "tourist ignorance."  If you didn't break the law, then stand your ground.  When they realize you can't be bulldoze they will let you go.

BTW, unlike in the US, TJ has judges on duty 24 hours a day.  So don't be afraid to ask to see a judge.  When the cops realize you "know your apples" they'll cut you lose. At least that is my personal experience and I've had other TJ vets tell me the same thing.

Law enforcement in TJ are the biggest crooks on the planet. They probably split the cash with the girl. In any case it gets worse every day. Stay away from Mexico. You got lucky. In the same scam I was taken for $300.

AS a 'past' TJ whore monger...I learned you never sample the street girls.  Stick to the clubs, the club owners pay off the cops to leave them alone