Con Man Targeting Craigslist Car Buyers To Sell Stolen Cars

TAYLOR (WWJ) - Police are searching for a suspect in connection with a series of fraudulent car sales to people answering ads primarily on Craigslist.

Police say the suspect lists cars for sale in the Metro Detroit area on Craigslist and unsuspecting buyers who answer the ad meet with him expecting to buy a car from the legitimate owner.

The suspect provides the buyer with the vehicle, keys, and an apparent legitimate Michigan title. When the buyer attempts to title the vehicle in their name, they discover the Michigan title is counterfeit and the vehicle they bought has been stolen.

SEATT detectives have been able to locate surveillance tape footage of the suspect in this investigation.  The suspect is described by victims as a black male in his 30's or 40's and very thin with a medium to dark complexion.

State Police are asking anyone with information to call the Michigan State Police Tip Line at
(877) 616-4677 or the Help Eliminate Auto Theft (HEAT) Tip Line at 1 800 242 HEAT. Tipsters can remain anonymous. SEATT is a multi-jurisdictional task force made up of local, state and federal officers.

In:
• Craigslist
• Fraud