TOLEDO, OH – A network of Northwest Ohio men are facing federal charges after authorities dismantled a sophisticated chop shop operation responsible for stealing semi-trucks, trailers, and cargo across three states. The ring allegedly caused multi-million dollar losses to businesses in Ohio, Michigan, and Indiana.
The 17-count indictment names Michael Wymer, age 54, of Toledo; Robert W. Debolt, Jr., age 47, of Toledo; Michael A. Deutsch, age 38, of Toledo; Shawn M. Wymer, age 27, of Holland; Gary J. Wymer, age 55, of Rossford, and Terrance L. Wymer, age 28, of Toledo, Ohio. The alleged scheme ran from August 2012 through February 2013.
“This was a highly organized group that stole from people throughout the Midwest,” stated Steven M. Dettelbach, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio. “The FBI, Ohio State Patrol and all the law enforcement partners involved in this investigation did a tremendous job shutting down this ring.” Authorities say the crew operated two chop shops within Toledo city limits.
According to the indictment, the men dismantled stolen semi-trucks, trailers, and cargo at locations on Sterling Street (642 Sterling Street) and Consual Street (2322 Consual Street) in Toledo. Stolen parts and pieces were transported between the two locations before being destroyed or scrapped. The operation also involved receiving stolen vehicles and parts with the intent to sell or dispose of them illegally. Stephen D. Anthony, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Northern District of Ohio, emphasized the collaborative nature of the investigation, calling it a “true collaborative effort” resulting in a “multi-million dollar” impact.
Colonel John Born, Superintendent of the Ohio State Highway Patrol, highlighted the broader implications of the crime. “Criminals are using Ohio’s vast interstate system to engage in vehicle theft and fraud. These crimes degrade the quality of life in Ohio, and we will continue working together to ensure the safety and security of all Ohioans.”
While the indictment represents a significant step, authorities stress that it is merely an accusation. Each of the defendants is entitled to a fair trial where the government bears the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, sentencing will be determined by the Court based on individual factors including prior records and roles in the offense, but will not exceed statutory maximums. The investigation was led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Cleveland, Ohio, in conjunction with the Ohio State Highway Patrol and the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles. Assistant United States Attorneys Alissa M. Sterling and Thomas A. Karol are prosecuting the case.
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Key Facts
- State: Ohio
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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