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DMV Officers Arrest Suspect for Committing Title and Odometer Fraud

Investigators Caught Suspect on Facebook Marketplace

CARSON CITY – Investigators from the Nevada Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) Compliance Enforcement Division (CED) arrested a man suspected of selling a vehicle on Facebook Marketplace, whose odometer and title were tampered with and forged.

After receiving an online complaint regarding possible odometer fraud, investigators found that the suspect bought a 2003 Honda Element with over 260,000 miles for $1,200 and received a Nevada title with the seller’s signature. The suspect did not sign the buyer’s section of the Nevada title. A day later, the vehicle completed a smog test and received a vehicle inspection report showing the vehicle only reported to have 133,292 miles on the odometer, in conflict with previously reported miles.

Further in the investigation, it was discovered that the suspect, “title jumped” the ownership chain.

He used the original seller’s name and signature when selling the vehicle just three days after he purchased the vehicle by signing a fraudulent name on the bill of sale and pretending to be the original owner with the transfer of the Nevada title to the victim.

The suspect sold the vehicle for $4,500 to the victim using Facebook Marketplace, stating on the ad that the vehicle had over 133k miles on it.

“It is imperative that we ask buyers to take the extra step and ensure they are purchasing a legitimate vehicle,” said CED Chief J.D. Decker. “Get a photo of the seller’s ID and contact information, and meet at a DMV VIN inspection station, eliminating the possibility of odometer tampering.”

Currently, the suspect was charged for three felonies, including, unlawful change of mileage, unlawful sale, offer of sale or display for sale of motor vehicle, forgery, and other acts constituting forgery. If you believe you are a victim of a possible scam, please contact CED at 775-684-4790.

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