BURLINGTON, VT – Michael A. Gonzalez, 32, of Colchester, Vermont, is facing serious federal charges after a multi-state scheme to steal five high-end Tesla vehicles totaling over $607,000. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont revealed Gonzalez appeared in court today, ordered detained pending a hearing next week.
The indictment details a brazen operation spanning from September 2018 to January 2021. Gonzalez allegedly targeted Tesla dealerships in New Jersey, New York, Massachusetts, and Florida, initiating purchases with around $2,500 down payments. The catch? The balance was supposedly covered by electronic funds transfers from accounts that were either empty or entirely fabricated. Gonzalez took possession of the vehicles before Tesla caught on to the fraudulent payments.
Four of the stolen Teslas were quickly flipped – resold or attempted to be resold – by Gonzalez. The fifth vehicle met a fiery end on February 24, 2019, burning on a frozen section of Shelburne Bay on Lake Champlain. Gonzalez even attempted to collect insurance money for the destroyed Tesla, a claim that was rightfully denied, authorities say.
A federal Grand Jury in Burlington, Vermont, returned a five-count indictment against Gonzalez on August 26, 2021, charging him with the sale and possession of stolen motor vehicles. If convicted on all counts, Gonzalez could face up to ten years in federal prison per count. Sentencing will be determined by Federal Sentencing Guidelines, taking into account the specifics of the crime and Gonzalez’s background.
Acting U.S. Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt was quick to note that the indictment contains accusations, and Gonzalez is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The case was built on the investigation of the U.S. Secret Service and the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles – Enforcement and Safety Division, who deserve credit for unraveling the scheme.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey W. Davis is prosecuting the case for the government. Gonzalez is being represented by Chandler Matson, Esq. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as it develops, bringing you the unvarnished truth from the federal courts.
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Key Facts
- Agency: U.S. Secret Service
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: Official Press Release
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