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ROCHESTER, N.Y. — A Local Woman’s Scheme to Forge Classic Car Titles Exposed
Marcella Samuels, 44, of Irondequoit, NY, pleaded guilty to mail fraud in a scheme to forge State of Maine vehicle titles and registration documents for classic cars, according to authorities.
Samuels, who advertised under the pseudonym ‘Titleman’ in the periodical ‘Old Cars Weekly,’ would create and sell forged State of Maine vehicle titles and registration documents to individuals attempting to title and register classic cars, authorities stated.
As part of the scheme, Samuels would send payment and advertising applications to Old Cars Weekly via the US Mail, and individuals seeking to title or register vehicles would mail payments of $300 to $350 to the defendant, who would then forge and mail the documents back to customers.
Over the course of the scheme, the Government believes Samuels collected approximately $292,000 in proceeds from the fraud, authorities stated.
The plea is the result of an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles, and the New York State Police.
Sentencing is scheduled for May 14, 2021, before Chief U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. Samuels faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, authorities stated.
The case is a stark reminder of the importance of verifying the authenticity of official documents, authorities warned.
Key Facts
- State: New York
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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