On another board for years I posted an annual Christmas Cop warning.  I was happy when during the tenure of Jorge Ramos as mayor that was no longer necessary.  

Sadly Jorge Ramsos' anti-corruption reforms are dying.   (He was part owner of the Tijuana Grand Hotel and, consequently, times were never better for Tijuana tourists than when Ramos was mayor.)  So I feel the need this year to warn tourist about the cops in Tijauana.

Most have families with kids that want presents and many have multiple families.  So their need for money during the Christmas season, which--as I posted above-- lasts through January 6th makes this the most dangerous time of the year for tourists.

The same is also true of pickpockets, scammers, and other such ilk.   So be extra careful of cops and malandros during the holiday season.

After living in Tijuana for 15 years I've had my share of encounters with corrupt cops.  Other ex-pats have joined me in telling tourists to "just say no" to cops trying to fleece you.  They only succeed with hobbyists who lack a pair of brass ones and they are good at smelling fear.  

When you call their bluff (on whatever it may be such as arresting you or impounding your car)  they'll find a face saving way to go on their way and leave you alone.  (Unless, of course, you become so obnoxious it becomes personal).      So firmly, but politely, just say no until they leave you in peace.

Been there, done that.  Many times.

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BTW, the legal system is different in Tijuana than in the US.  In the US they cops can hold you (most places) 72 hours before you see a judge.  It is the reverse in Tijuana and judges are on duty 24/7 there.  A cop cannot put you in jail until after you have been arraigned and the judge has signed a confinement order.

As I have posted elsewhere, I have first hand experience is seeing how easily judges see through a cop's fabrications.  Contrary to what some think,  there is no collusion between cops and judges.  Judges come from a different social class and tend to look down  on cops.  Plus they know all about the games cops play.  

So never be afraid to tell the cops to take you to see the judge.  Many savy ex-pats tell that to cops they want to see the judtge so the cops will understand they know how the game is played.  And then the cops find a face saving face to extract themselves and look for easier prey.