There are active charges right now for you. >> For what? >> For I believe it's scheme to defraud. >> What? >> Scheme to defraud. >> Okay. For who? >> For you. >> No. No. For what? >> I guess something involving a vehicle. >> I don't know the exact >> Okay. >> I don't know the exact stuff with that. Okay. >> So, you probably know more because you already maybe spoke to a detective or or something like that. Yeah. >> Okay. All right. So, with that being said, we've got to place you into custody because you're under arrest for those charges. >> On February 13th, 2026, Charlotte County Sheriff's deputies in Port Charlotte, Florida, dismantled a multi-county vehicle fraud scheme spanning three jurisdictions, and over $100,000 in stolen property. This investigation raises serious legal questions about the statutory distinction between theft and fraud, the scope of warrantless felony arrest authority, and the admissibility of private vehicle telematics as a modern investigative tool. >> How can I help you today? >> So, uh, fun story. We sold I work for a dealership out of Riverview. >> Okay. >> Um, we sold a vehicle to an individual. Um, delivered it. It was all done over the phone. Delivered it to an address in Port Charlotte. >> Okay. >> Where she picked it up, signed all the paperwork, gave us a check. >> Okay. >> Um check turned out to be fraudulent. >> Okay. >> Um so we are trying to retrieve our vehicle. >> Mhm. >> Um so I needed to submit a um vehicle theft or report a vehicle. >> Okay. Um, it wouldn't be a theft because you guys gave them the vehicle in exchange, you know, for what you thought was an a check. But what is going on? >> Sorry, one second. I don't know why this person just stopped behind my patrol car. Um, do you have the other person's information that came to purchase the vehicle? Okay, >> I have everything. >> Okay. Um, so we filed a a report with the Royal County Sheriff's Office. Okay. So that's where >> that's where your office is. Okay. >> Um, and he he actually said it would be a theft because she brought my attention. >> It was a fake check. >> So, um, was her name on the check? Like, did the driver's license match the name on the check? >> She put it in, uh, her business name. >> Oh, she put the Jeep in her business name that she purchased. Okay. The check was made out to her business name. >> Okay. >> Um, we ran like a Sunbiz report and verified her name and associated with the business. >> With the business to make sure that all matched up. >> Okay. >> I've got in my email, I've got copy of driver's license, bill of sale. Okay. The check. >> So, you've already filed like the fraud report with Hillsboro. Yes. >> So, they took the initial report. Okay. They said because the transaction occurred in Charlotte County, we had to >> file it in Charlotte County. >> Of course they did. They like to p stuff off. I gota >> I also have So I've got the officer's information. Okay. >> He said that we could call him as well >> um to discuss it with him. He >> What dealership did you guys meet at here? >> We met at Sounds weird. Um we met at Target. So >> Okay. So, believe it or not, we we deliver vehicles a lot. Yeah. And we do a lot of transactions over the phone. People buy stuff sideways. Um, >> so we meet at we generally meet at person's house, which >> there's a lot of red flags. Um, but she wanted to meet at Target because her story was she wanted to surprise her boyfriend. So, she wanted to meet close to her boyfriend's work, so she'd drive to her boyfriend's work. Okay. Whatever, >> which not true. Um, so we met. We have a guy that works for us. It's the owner's father-in-law. He does a lot of the deliveries. He's like an old guy. >> Okay. So, he he drove it down. He's like a He doesn't ever suspect anything would be wrong. So, >> they were Yeah. >> He gets an Uber, comes back. >> So, how did you guys find out the check was fraudulent? >> So, um, of course, I was out sick for a couple days. Um, I'm the accountant manager of the office. I do all of the bank deposits and all the checks. I didn't review the check because I wasn't there. >> Um so he not suspecting anything was wrong got the check. He's like, "All right, Ruby." >> Um I had somebody else deposit the check into our bank for us. >> Okay. >> Um we didn't realize that it was odd until we got a call from uh Sarasota dealership. >> Okay. >> That this lady had purchased a vehicle from them. Okay. Sunday doing the same thing. >> She went up there though, >> gave him the same check. I have a copy of that check. Looks exactly like the one we got. >> Okay. >> Um, so he called us when she pulled up cuz she bought it on Sunday. >> He called her. He was like, I think there was a problem with the payment. Can you come come back and and talk this over? He saw that she was driving the vehicle that she purchased from us. He was like, that seems suspicious. he was able to find out that she bought it from us and he called us and he was like, "Hey guys, um, did you sell this lady a vehicle?" We're like, "Yeah." He's like, "So did I, yada yada yada." We're like, "Okay, so something sketchy." He's like, "Absolutely." Try to figure it out. >> Um, so that's when we And that was Wednesday or Thursday. >> So when did she purchase the vehicle? Tuesday. This past Tuesday. Okay. Um, do you can I can I look at her driver's license? >> I have [clears throat] >> I'm just going to run her real quick. >> So, the reason this is going to be awesome as well, um, it's not a Florida driver's license. >> It's not a Florida license. Okay. >> So, um, the reason I had you meet here, the Jeep is located downream. >> Oh, how do you know where the is there a tracker on it? >> Kind of. >> Oh, okay. So, I've I was able to find um >> No, you're good. Um Massachusetts. >> So, I've been parked here um quasi steakout style. >> Okay. >> To see if the Jeep left >> and it's still sitting down there. >> Sit down there. >> Uh date of birth 9790. Okay. So, she I'm just going to recap just a little bit here. So, she purchased the vehicle Tuesday from you guys. Wrote you a check. When did you guys cash the check? >> Wednesday. >> Wednesday. Okay. >> Did your bank call you? >> So, upon me returning to work on Thursday, >> okay, >> I found out [laughter] this dealership in Sarasota called ours, discussed it, and I was like, "Okay." So, I went to the bank. >> Mhm. >> Had to pull it up. I looked at it and I was like, "That looks fishy." >> My relationship with the bank is really good. So, anytime they're like, "We got to hold the check." I'm like, "You don't got to hold the check." >> Um, I was like, "So, they didn't hold the check initially. I was like, >> check." >> Yeah. >> Um, so they're like, "Okay." So, they printed me off a copy. >> Okay. >> Um, >> we tried calling the bank that the routing number was associated with. They wouldn't verify anything. >> Okay. >> I got I got them on the phone again today. your bank or the the bank that it the check is through. Okay. >> Um I got them on the phone again today. They had me send an email. So I sent an email. They replied. They were like, "Yeah, it's fraudulent check." >> Okay. So her bank basically confirmed. Yes. What bank was it? Through >> Lead Bank out of Yeah. Out of Missouri. >> And then I got confirmation this afternoon that the check did in fact um >> not go through back. >> Okay. What? Uh, what bank do you guys Sun Coast? >> Did she So, how much was the check for? Did she like >> 53,000? >> 53,000. Okay. >> 53,382 or something. >> 82. Okay. Okay. Um, what's the address that that the Jeep's parked in front of? Do you know? >> Yes. >> Did Sarasota end up selling to her or No, >> they did. Okay. >> Because they were in the same boat as us. So they have a they're bigger. We're we're a small dealership. They're like a franchise. They use what's called telet check or tea or something. Something that's supposed to verify the check when they receive it >> and it passed and then I guess one or two days later >> they got a call from their bank or whatever. It got kicked back. >> Okay. >> So that's when they called her. So she is in possession of a car from them as well. >> So she has two. Wow. >> Um address. >> Yeah. So, it is so this the the it's a Jeep Wrangler. It's a 2024. Um, >> these vehicles are equipped with a lot of technology now. >> Yeah. >> To where I can enter a vent, a VIN number on my app and it'll show me where the Jeep's located. >> Oh, wow. >> So, >> allow me not to buy a Jeep, [laughter] >> right? Yeah. That's pretty strange. Um, now I'm a dealer, so normal people can't do it. >> Oh, okay. Okay, that makes me feel a little bit better at least. >> Overnight, it was located an address about 5 minutes from here. >> Um, which was where I was initially headed, and then it notified me that it was over here. >> Okay. >> Um, >> okay. Let me see if I can pull some information on that house real quick. Do you have your driver's license on you? >> Yeah, absolutely. And then I also have um all the documents that we shared with the Hillsboro County Sheriff's Deputy. >> Okay. >> Um he said to share them with you as well because it should be pretty much >> sufficient or or what you might need. Um it sounded like talking when I was talking to that guy. >> Mhm. >> So I wasn't he he came to the office and was talking to one of the managers and I was on speaker phone so we were having a conversation. It sounded like he was like, "Yeah, let's let's do this." And his boss was like, "You can't." Um, so, >> okay. >> I don't know. But anyways, I can do an email to you, show whatever. >> Yeah, let me um let me write down my email for you. So, that might that'll be a little bit easier. >> Actually, I see him twice, you know, because he that same amount of that's different. 32 then it came out today. Yes. So I can confirm that I see him coming in and then coming out on the 13th. >> Okay. >> So there's no like documentation that he can provide. Okay, that's fine. Um can I get your name, sir? I'm so This is Deputy Davis with the sheriff's office. I'm just trying to write write it for my report. What's your first name? >> William. >> Okay. Um, so you see you see the money going in and then coming back out today. So it is definitely like a returned check. >> Yes, it's a return check. So in the slip that it's going to generate, it will show return. >> Okay, perfect. I appreciate it. Thank you. >> No problem. >> Thanks, William. >> My pleasure. Anything else that I can assist you with? >> I think that's it. >> Appreciate you. >> You, too. >> Okay, that's all right. I'll just I'll just document his ID number. Um [clears throat] >> his name is really William. >> Probably not. Yeah. Okay. So, um I'm not going to have you repeat everything. Um but I do want to ask a couple more follow-up questions, but I'm going to place you under oath and just have you swear to what you already told me into everything that you're going to tell me moving forward. Okay. Um so, before I do that, I just have to ask you a couple of questions. Are you currently under the influence of any drugs or alcohol? Do you know the meaning of perjury? >> Yes. >> Okay. So, I always explain it just to be on the safe side. Perjury can be committed in two different ways. By either lying or by omitting information while under oath. Perjury is a crime in the state of Florida. Do you understand what I've said about that? Perfect. Raise your right hand. Do you swear affirm that the statement you already provided and will provide shortly after? Uh it's going to be the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. Yes. >> Perfect. Um okay. >> Do you you said there's like an app, right, that you can like look up basically and that's how you got this address and that's how you got the other address. And the the address that you wrote out on East Tarpon, that was where the Jeep was yesterday >> overnight. >> Overnight >> until this morning something. >> Okay. Um I wonder I wonder if she's like driving them back and forth and just I don't even know if anybody lives at that house. Like it looks empty almost. Um >> Jeep is still there, right? >> Yeah, the Jeep is still there. >> Make sure I didn't sitting there staring at my rearview mirror. >> Yep. It's still there >> for like 2 hours. >> Yeah, absolutely. Um, and then you guys are are wanting to pursue charges. Is that correct? Okay. >> I know it sounds like a silly question, but I have to ask. >> Some people are just like, I just want my stuff back. I'm like, >> I do want my stuff back. That's the priority, but I also want procedures. >> Okay. Absolutely. Um, we're, like I said, we're going to have detectives come out. Um, cuz this obviously spans a lot bigger than just you. >> Yeah. >> And me. Um, so we're just going to keep watching the road, kind of hang out. Um I think the other car was like a Honda Civic. >> Yeah, the guy said Smurf Blue. Maybe Smurf Blue. I wrote it down. >> That sticks out. >> Yeah, it's like you would recognize it anywhere. >> Um >> it was like Yeah. And it that check he gave >> Do you have a Is it the same check or is it >> It's basically the same just a different number. So our check was number one. I think his was one2 >> but it looks exact. >> Okay. Okay. And if you saw it, you'd be like, "You guys are idiots." >> Yeah. >> Which >> I do have the check that you sent me. So, okay. >> Okay. So, yeah. >> Yeah. I got all the ones you sent me, but >> Okay. We're just going to kind of hang out at this point. Um >> I'm happy to >> if I can think of any questions. Yeah, they're the detectives are going to want to rein you. Um this is just basically like a preliminary, right? So, I'm just gathering the facts for them. Um, >> I got people to cover my kids baseball practice for me. >> Perfect. How How far of a drive was it down here? >> Uh, it should have been about an hour and a half, but of course there was an accident on 75. Of course, there was, so it was about 2 hours. >> Okay. >> Well, we'll try to get you out of here. Do you have somebody that can like help you get the Jeep back up there or you just going to like drive it somewhere and pick it? >> I will probably How close is your sheriff's office? >> It's not very far from here. What I would probably do is see if I could get my truck and drop it off at your sheriff's office and then drive the Jeep. >> That shouldn't be an issue at all. >> The Jeep's more valuable than my truck is. Um, but I would just feel better about >> Right. case. So, >> all right. Well, we'll just hang out. >> I'm not concern I and I'm on no time frame, so >> Okay. >> I haven't told everybody. >> They They should still be in the office. They don't usually leave until like 4:35ish. So, they they their response time shouldn't be terrible. Um, I need to see if they've entered the other vehicle as stolen so that we can check the other address, too. >> Do you want me to call the guy? >> Yeah, you can. If you already have his information, um, if you want to call him and see if they've reported it stolen, cuz I know they they sent us out here yesterday to see if it was at this address and we drove by cuz I looked I looked at the call and there was no vehicle there last night. >> So, >> um, he I have he said he filed a case with Sarasota County. >> Okay. >> And I have a case number from them. Um, but I can call the guy if you want to talk to him. >> That's okay. Um, I I can run the tag, too. So, or the VIN. So, all right. Perfect. I'll let you know. Or if I have any questions, I'll I'll >> I'll hang out. >> Yep. No worries. Sounds good. Thank you. I'll watch you this way. >> I appreciate. >> Yep. >> I don't know if you can see. What's up? >> Detective represent the Charlotte County Sheriff. >> Yeah. I assume this is regarding the Honda. >> Yeah. I just have some questions for you. >> Yeah. What's up? >> So, can you come out and talk to me and tell me what's going on with that? >> Yeah. I mean, nothing's really going on. I bought a check. So, I have I got I have a sexual abuse case. >> The money is in a protected account and they got a check that says like check with sender, not like um not like a a block check. So, I literally have given them proof that I'm just letting the bank release it. Okay. >> Yeah. No one's talked to me. Zan, like I have been I texted the deputy last night, the the sheriff. They they literally I had to go to the hospital for a panic attack over it because I literally like I got cornered like tell us how you got this money. Like it's [sighs] a very sensitive subject to get money over a very long settlement, you know. >> Okay. >> Yeah. All right. Are you willing to give me a swarm recorded statement? >> What? >> Are you willing to give me a >> I am not giving a recorded statement while I'm heavily drugged. Like that's >> I'm not even coherent right now. You know what I mean? >> Okay. >> I can come in and give a recorded statement. Um I just don't think like >> Yeah, I can give Where do I have to go to do a recorded statement or can you do it right here? Well, we prefer to do it at the sheriff's office, not >> I literally have We just moved here. I have my dogs. I have no problem giving a statement, but um >> you have something showing where this this check was cleared or that there's funds inside the account. >> What? >> Do you have something showing that the check was cleared or that you had fun? >> So, the check isn't cleared. It's preunded, but it's like the bank pulls money to generate the check. But yeah, I've sent them all of that. I've sent them the proof. I've sent them the communication with the bank that the money was there. >> Who did you send to? What What dealership are we talking about? >> Um ghetto. >> What car are you talking about? >> The Honda? >> No, we're here for the Jeep. >> The Jeep? >> Yeah, we're here for this beautiful green Jeep sitting right behind me. >> Oh, so it must be the same thing. Um the same the check the same thing. >> Okay. Yeah, it must be the same thing. Um, no one's reached out to me about the Jeep, though. >> So, no, no one at the dealership has reached out to you. >> No, I haven't. I talked to the guy yesterday. No one has said anything about the Jeep. >> Who'd you talk to yesterday? >> The owner. >> You know his name? I don't know these people. That's why I'm asking. >> No. Uh, he was saying that he had the wrong tire and he gave me the wrong charger so to come grab it. >> Yeah. No one has said anything to me about the Jeep. Okay. >> Well, that's the case that I'm investigating. >> I know. >> Um, but it must be the same thing. I did get an email today for the Jeep, though. Uh, that says the same thing, like we need to verify the check. Uh, not verify the check. Uh, you need to manually release the check from my bank. >> Your bank sent you an email? >> Yeah. >> Okay. So, what was the issue with that? >> So, it's just a protected account. It's It's like a uh It's a manual verification to make sure it was me releasing doing the check. >> Like, >> yeah. >> All right. >> So, no one has called I'm like shocked actually cuz I haven't even met talked to the guy at all. >> Why wouldn't he text me, you know, or call me and say that? >> Well, I've been trying to get a hold of you. >> He has not. I literally have my phone. >> Okay. Yeah. >> Do you have any type of identification so I can just verify who I'm speaking to? >> Um yeah, I guess though uh cuz we're in the middle of moving. This is registered to my business. >> Okay. >> Um how did you >> I'm so confused. Like I literally just moved here. >> Okay. What are you confused about? >> Cuz it's registered at the business address. >> Okay. But you were the one who purchased the vehicle, correct? You provided [clears throat] all your information. >> Yeah. >> Well, yeah. I just I'm I'm shocked. I just I'm just confused cuz I haven't heard from him at all. Like, I literally have my phone. Uh I checked it right before you guys got here. Like, who's at my door? Am I expecting someone? I have no missed phone calls, nothing. No text message. >> Okay. Just give me one moment. Okay. >> Yeah. Should I text him? >> No, you you don't have to. Okay. >> I just don't understand like how do like I need to resolve it with this guy obviously, but why? I don't know why he wouldn't reach out to me. >> Well, they claim they've been trying to reach out to you since he did the transaction on Tuesday. They got >> cheap. >> Yes. >> I literally can show you a text message with him yesterday where he me he didn't say anything. >> If you want to show >> Yeah. >> He even said yesterday at 6 p.m. 6 p.m. I have a few things to do tomorrow. So may not be able to come later in the day. I have five different shop. I have the shop guys with five different chargers for you. Oh, for the electric charger. >> He's going to show me. >> Yeah, this is with the dealership. >> What's the phone number that you're hearing the text from? >> 813. >> And who are you speaking with there? >> The the person who I facilitated the whole entire deal with. >> What's whom? I don't know. >> I don't know. Uh whoever answers the main phone number. Uh I don't know his name. Uh but You did. So you you essentially purchased this online >> or did you go into the dealership? >> They brought it to me. >> But how did the transaction transpire? >> Uh I said I've been like I signed the paperwork when they brought me the car and I um >> But you never physically went into the >> No, it's in Tampa. >> Okay. All right. But yeah, if you want to see. Uh, >> is your Honda here too? >> No. Um, it's a business card. These are for business the business. But yeah, he literally >> You have a screen protector. It's hard to see. >> Oh, sorry. He literally texted me last night. >> Okay. And you just have it as Jeep Depot? >> Yeah. Is it reported as stolen? Like, can I drive it? >> The Jeep? >> Yeah, >> it's not reported as stolen. Oh, >> okay. >> Can you scroll down? Oh, I meant the the other way. So, that's just you initially contacting them about the Jeep. >> Yeah. And this is our conversation yesterday. Like, I haven't gotten anything. >> No phone calls from anyone else from Jeep Depot. >> No, I um get spam calls all day. But no, I haven't gotten my last phone call. >> I haven't gotten anything. I'm scroll. This is from like 12:05 p.m. and not a single phone call. >> Okay. >> Yeah. Um and I texted the him today. Actually, my last reply to him was this morning at 9:0 uh 9:12 9:12 a.m. That does sound good cuz he texted me last night. I didn't reply. >> All right. >> Just give me a moment. Let me make a phone call to the dealership. I'll be right back with you. >> Okay. Thank you. >> Hello. >> Deputy Davis with the sheriff's office. Reason I'm here, you mind just taking your hands out of your pockets for me? Sorry. No, you're you're not in any trouble, anything like that. Um I'm actually here because of the blue Honda. Okay. Um it's been entered as stolen through Sarasota County. Your friend Tony >> Mhm. >> she's writing fraudulent checks and taking cars. So, my question for you is, do I have your permission to remove it from the property? >> Um, let me get my buddy because I don't really know. >> Is this his house? >> Um, he stays here. >> Okay. Okay. Yeah, if you don't mind. >> Me and my brother are like on the lease. >> Okay. Yeah. I mean, if you're on the lease and you give me permission, that's fine. Um, I just >> Okay. >> Don't want to really have to go through a search warrant and all the craziness. >> Okay. Okay. >> Yeah. Let me go talk to >> Thank you. You're you guys aren't in any trouble or anything like that. So, >> what's going on? >> Hey. >> So, I don't know. Nobody's in trouble here. Um I don't know your relationship with Tony, but right now she's writing fraudulent texts and taking cars. So, this car is actually stolen. The blue one. >> Okay. >> So, if with your permission, I would like to remove it. >> Yeah, absolutely. >> Okay, cool, cool, cool. I appreciate it. >> Sure. Absolutely. >> Do you guys have the keys for it or Perfect. >> Hey, they're just going to let me take it. So, I'm just going to call for a toe. Thank you. I appreciate it. Um, do you mind if I just get your driver's license so that I can write down that I talked to you? Thank you. >> So, they're just going to let me take it. He's like, I I want nothing to do with it. So, [laughter] >> the uh Lee, the guy who's renting the house, he said that they're just friends. Mm- Yeah. No, she does not live there. That that was her house back where we were at. This is his house. [clears throat] >> Okay, >> perfect. Thank you. >> Okay, bye. Thank you so much. I'm just going to have you sign what's called a waiver of search. Just give me permission to remove it. Okay, give me one sec. Like I said, nobody here is in trouble or anything like that. Why did she park it here? Do you know? >> She was letting me use it. I have no idea. >> Oh, okay. Okay. Well, good thing you weren't caught driving it. >> Hello, Tony. It's Detective Richardson again. >> Hi. How are you? >> All right. So, I got to read you the search warrant here. I have a search warrant for the Jeep Wrangler here. >> So, you're taking the Wrangler? >> Yes. >> Okay. Do you have a question? >> Well, no. I just don't know, I guess, what's going on. Um, I even tried like, yeah, I don't know. >> All right. In the circuit court of the 20th judicial circuit in Charlotte County, Florida, I have a search warrant with under our agency case number of 2602-010851. It listes [snorts] Tony as suspect. White female, date of birth approximately 5'4, 190, black hair, brown eyes, last known address of United States with a driver's license number of with being out of Massachusetts and social security number. The vehicle is a Jeep Wrangler green in color with a VIN number one season Charles 4R JXU 69RW218556. You or the following commanded return a written copy of the inventory of the property receipt the same specific specifying the property in detail within 10 days of hearing of the court and this is done on the 13th day of February 2026 Charlotte County Florida by the honorable Russell T. Kershey. All right. So >> Yes, ma'am. Um, yeah. I guess my confusion is did he ever call you though? Cuz I still haven't like that's my confusion. I >> I talked to the the owner of the Jeep Depot. >> Yeah. >> And that's who initially filed a report with us. >> Okay. I don't know why he never reached out to me then. Um, so I guess uh I I really don't know like how to handle this. Obviously probably an attorney. >> Yeah, that's what I would recommend and getting with >> the financial institution and trying to resolve whatever issue. >> Right. So I called the dealership for the Honda and I'm like I literally showed communication and he's like I don't want your money anymore. So >> Okay. >> Yeah. >> So we're not here. I mean that's between Honda and you or that's the Jeep. So I can't tell anything about that. Does that make sense? No, I just I uh feel like I understand why it looks sketchy. I I just never have really been invol like in trouble with the lie. I don't really know what to do. So, >> yeah. >> So, at this point, we're just taking the Jeep and then kind of going from there. Okay. Okay. >> Once once we get the Jeep and the keys, once the Jeeps are proper, we're gone for the night. You won't see us the rest of the night. >> Make sense? Hopefully reach out to you in the future at some point. >> Okay. >> But that' be another day. Does that make sense? >> Yeah. Like I I guess do I >> I just don't want to get arrested. I have service dogs. Like you're not being arrested. >> Okay. I know. I But like how do I make sure that doesn't happen? >> Just be compliant. [laughter] >> Like follow up with the attorney and like I said, I I'll speak to you in the future if I have further questions and >> Okay. >> If you're willing to provide a statement to me in reference to everything that's going on. I know you said you were medicated earlier. >> Well, I'm just in general very mentally unstable. Um, and panic is when I become. So, the goal is to just prevent panic. Um, >> yeah. Right now, we're here to collect the Jeep. And you've given me the key fob tour. >> How do you feel right now? You feel you don't do you? I told you. [laughter] >> I just got double check. >> Yeah. Yeah. No, I know to reach out if I am. >> You feel like hurting yourself or anyone else? >> No. No. And I know I every time I've been hospitalized, I it's me calling, you know, I know how to do that. Okay. Um, and that's why yesterday at the hospital, I was really upset with the dealer because I'm like, I literally know this could turn into, which is why I'm asking you to please let me handle this. And he didn't give me that space. Um, he's like, you need to bring the car right now. I'm like, I'm literally in a hospital bed and they're they might admit me. Like, >> Honda. >> Uh, the Honda. Yeah. >> Okay. That's in Sarasota. >> Yeah. Okay. So I like was frustrated because I feel like I got discriminated against my disability because literally they were fine until I got cornered and had a panic attack and had to go to the hospital, you know. So okay, >> um I understand demanding payment, but when someone's very like mentally unstable. And he was like, "Well, get a power attorney." I'm like, "You can't get a power attorney when you're already this mentally unstable, like I can't make legal decisions at this point, you know?" So, okay. Um, I feel like it's being made out worse than it is because I couldn't provide because of my disability. >> I got you. >> Yeah. So, >> well, take a deep breath today. Like I said, we're just literally once the toll gets here, we're taking the Jeep or you'll see us drive away and we'll knock on the door, give you a copy of it. >> Can I just see if I have like I don't think my my license in there, but can I see if I have anything in there? >> Well, whatever's in there is going to be in there. >> You'll get it back, though. We're not keeping it. We just have to inventory and then he'll call you later this week and we'll release whatever's in there to you. I shouldn't have anything. >> So, I'm going to fill out a property receipt. You'll receive a copy of that saying that we're taking the Jeep with the key fob. >> Okay. >> All right. So, let me complete this. I'll knock on your door again to hand you that information. >> Can you just leave it here? If I don't take it. Yeah. I will snuggle a dog. [laughter] >> I'll leave it right on that box if that's what you want. >> Yeah. Thank you so much. >> Okay. >> Awesome. Well, awesome. But thank you. >> All right. The responding deputy correctly recognized from the outset that a voluntary transfer of property induced by a worthless check does not satisfy the common law elements of theft because title appeared to pass with the apparent consent of the owner. The conduct instead falls squarely under Florida statute section 817034, the Florida Communications Fraud Act, commonly referred to as Scheme to defraud, which criminalizes any systematic course of conduct intended to defraud by false representation. When aggregate value exceeds $50,000, this offense elevates to a felony of the first degree carrying a statutory maximum of 30 years in state prison and a $10,000 fine. A parallel charge arises under Florida statutes section 812 014. Grand theft of a motor vehicle valued between 20,000 and $100,000 constitutes a secondderee felony punishable by up to 15 years in state prison. The worthless check itself violates Florida statute section 83205 which classifies the conduct as a thirdderee felony whenever the face amount exceeds $150. Venue properly attached in Charlotte County under Florida statutes section 9 10 0005 because the vehicle was physically delivered and the fraudulent instrument tendered within the county's territorial borders. Before accepting the complainant's substantive account, the deputy administered a formal oath pursuant to Florida statutes section 92525, converting an informal narrative into sworn testimony admissible before the court. Recovery of the secondary vehicle depended entirely on third party consent voluntarily given by a leaseholder who possessed common authority over the residential driveway where the vehicle had been parked. This procedure satisfies the apparent authority doctrine established by the Supreme Court in Illinois versus Rodriguez 497US 177 decided 1990 which permits warrantless seizure where officers reasonably believe the consenting party has mutual use of the premises because the suspect was absent during the encounter. The physically present co-tenant limitation from Georgia v. Randolph 547US 103 decided 2006 did not operate to restrict the leaseholders authority to consent. The primary vehicle required a judicially authorized search warrant properly issued under Florida statutes chapter 933 with full particularity as to make model color and the full 17 character vehicle identification number. The subsequent arrest was authorized under Florida statute section 900115 subsection 3, which permits a peace officer to make a warrantless felony arrest whenever probable cause supports the charge. By executing the arrest at the residential threshold rather than inside the dwelling, officers avoided the constitutional barrier established in Payton v. New York 445US573 decided 1980 which prohibits warrantless entry into a private home for routine felony arrests. >> Thank you. Hi. >> Hello. How are you? You had a 911 hangup for this address? >> I've been dead asleep. >> You have? Oh, so you didn't accidentally call? >> No, literally I am wicked sick right now. I've been dead asleep. No 911 hang up. >> Okay. You don't have any injuries or anything like that? You mind if you come out to the to the door so I can check you real quick? >> Yeah. >> She's coming to the door. Your dogs up? >> Yeah. >> Okay. You don't have any injuries or anything like that? >> No. >> Okay. You have a package there? >> Yeah. >> Anyone come on here? >> No. I I'm What's going on? >> Huh? >> I don't know who would call 911. >> Well, it just came from this address. I want to make sure everything's okay. >> Oh, no. I'm fine. There's no one else here. It's just me. Okay, >> I got you. You don't have any injuries. I don't see the back of you or anything like that. Okay. >> No injuries. Yeah. >> Okay. Can you come step out for me? >> Why do I need to step out? >> Cuz I need to talk to you about something. >> Okay. What's going on? >> There's I just need to talk to you. Okay. >> I'm not stepping outside. What's going on? >> So, there's an investigation going on. >> Yeah. >> I just need to talk to you. >> No. Okay. I'm not stepping outside. What's going on? >> I don't know the details of it. >> Okay. Is it a warrant? >> Huh? >> Is it a warrant? >> Not yet. >> Okay. What's going on then? >> I don't know. I don't know the details of it. >> So, what do you need me to step outside for? >> Huh? >> What do you need me to step outside? >> I'll talk to you. >> Yeah, the dogs are barking and everything like that. I don't >> I don't feel comfortable stepping outside. I am half asleep right now. What's going on? >> Okay. So, do you want to talk to my sergeant real quick? >> Yeah, I can talk. >> Hi. >> Hi. >> How are you? >> She's just asking. >> You're asking? Okay. So, here's the deal. There's an investigation conducted, okay? And I'm I'm not going to lie to you, okay? I don't want to lie to you. I don't want to give you anxiety or treat you any kind of way, but there are active charges right now for you. >> For what? >> For I believe it's scheme to defraud. >> What? >> Schemed to defraud. >> Okay. For who? >> For you? >> No. No. For what? >> I guess something involving a vehicle. >> I don't know the exact >> Okay. I don't know the exact stuff with that. Okay. >> So, you probably know more because you already maybe spoke to a detective or or something like that. >> Yeah. >> Okay. All right. So, with that being said, we've got to place you into custody because you're under arrest >> for those charges. >> Okay. Does that make sense? >> Just can it be any other day? I have to find a dog sitter and stuff right now. Like, >> so here's here's what I will do for you, okay? Cuz you're being important with me right now and I appreciate it. We can work out right now getting a dog sitter and everything for your dog. No one can drag you in jail and be mean to you, okay? We can work out some phone calls that need taken care of. You will have a bond hearing in the morning. You're not going to jail to stay in jail. It's not how it [laughter] works. Okay? So, I'm trying to >> calm you down with how this all works. As long as the dogs have food, water, tomorrow morning, you see a judge, you get a bond. Okay? >> Okay. You should be able to get out. honestly should because unless you have some crazy criminal history, which I don't think you do and based on what I've seen, you should be able to get out, which means you will have no issue. You're allowed to use a phone when you're there. It's not like you're getting thrown in a, you know, all that. >> So, we can work all that out as long as you cooperate with us cuz we're being we're being cool with you. We're being honest with you, but we can't help where that's at. And we had nothing to do with that. That was a detective and investigation has nothing to do with this. We're an apprehension unit. We come out and make contact with people and we [snorts and laughter] we serve the charges. Right. >> Okay. Yeah. No, it's frustrating because I've been trying to deal with that. I essentially um I got it's a long story, but yeah, >> I get it. I know there's a probably a lot to it and we don't know anything about it. It's not our investigation. So, we're not picking on you. We just came here because you were next on the spot of people we come to check on. You know what I mean? So, that's where we're at. >> So, with that being said, you have your phone on you. >> Um yeah. The thing is I don't know a single person in Florida. I don't know anyone who can bail me out. I don't know anyone who can watch my dog. >> Here's here's what we can do with you. As long as you remain cooperative with us, okay? We can come inside. We can let you get water and the dogs taken care of for tonight cuz like I said, you should be out tomorrow. You'll have a bond. So, you'll be able to postpone. >> I don't have anyone to postpone for me. I don't know anyone in Florida. >> Okay. Well, you don't have any neighbors or anybody that can help? >> I came here to take care of my sister as cancer. I don't know anyone here. >> Okay. So what we can work out for you then is in that case I can't do anything about the charges with that. I can't I'm sorry. That's just the way the law works. That's not me. That's the law. So you got to go in on those charges. >> But if it's not a warrant, how do I how can can you arrest me on this point? I guess >> cuz they're charges. So if you were to have committed a felony crime and I can prove that you did it, right? I'll explain this to you real quick. Then I can have charges for you. I can have the probable cause to make an arrest just like the detectives have probable cause based on their evidence to make an arrest. They do not need an arrest warrant signed by a judge to place me in custody. Just like if I come to your house, you commit a crime and I can prove it. I can place you into custody. >> So, the thing is I haven't even taken care of my dog. Like, I can't just leave within 20 minutes. Like, this is not going to hurry up. No one's gone off to the bathroom yet today. I've been dead asleep. >> I I I can I can sympathize with that and I I'm not trying to be mean to you. I am a dog owner myself. I love animals, okay? But we are I can't help where we're at. That's why I'm trying to work with you cuz I care about dogs, too. Okay. I want to try to do the best I can by you. >> But I can't take care of them with you inside my house. They'll kill you. That's what I'm saying. I have to go to each one outside. >> Here's the deal. We can't lose sight of you because you're supposed to be in handcuffs already, but I'm working with you trying to be cool and good to you. Okay? So, if you want to get them water and food and stuff, we can do that. If you do not have anybody that can help them, we can get in touch with animal control. And what they can do is they can help the dogs. Okay? They normally if we reach out to them and say, "Look, she's in custody. She has no one to help for these dogs. If there's a key and there's access to the home, I've seen them come and take care of and be able to help with the dogs. Okay? >> And unfortunately, that's just how this works. It I didn't make the rules. I promise you that. I'm not trying to be anywhere with you. >> So, if you're going to go back into the home to get water and just make sure the dogs are good, we have to come with you or we have to take you right now. And I don't want to do that. I want to help you, okay? And I'm not trying to invade your privacy, but once we tell you that, we have to stay with you. Okay? >> Do you know what county it is? >> Charlotte County. inside of this. >> So, my confusion is I really am just so confused. Like, is it how long is in because the the Charlotte County one like I don't know. I know. I'm I'm so drugged right now on anxiety medicine. Like, >> I I understand. I'm not trying to give you anxiety. I can't help where we're at. And I don't know the the specifics of the case cuz I'm not the investigator. >> I don't work in that unit. I don't know all the different conversations that may or may not have been had. I don't know the evidence. I don't know anything. I just know that there's active charges for you. >> So that's all we get told, >> right? >> So I wish I could give you more information because it's not like it's a secret be able to see all this. You know what I mean? So >> I'm going to have a panic attack like bad right now. >> I hope you don't because the sooner we can get you through this sooner and get you back out to your dogs. Okay? Because >> No, it's not just about that. It's just about not having resources. I [laughter] don't know how I'm going to get bailed out of jail. Like I don't know anyone. Well, when when you go to first appearance, you have an opportunity to speak with the judge about your bond and about the conditions of it and what it means. Okay? And you get an opportunity to speak to the judge and tell them directly all these concerns you have that you're telling me. That's why you're you're at first appearance. That's why it's important that you're there, right? >> Um because you can voice that and explain the financial hardship, you know what I mean? And stuff like that. And then that is when they set stuff like that or not or whatever they decide. >> Right. Right. Okay. >> Okay. >> Yeah. I I um can you just not come in and stay right here? I >> we cannot go without an arms distance away from you cuz you should be in custody right now. So if you go back in, we have to come with you if >> And then what I went ahead and did, Tony, is I went ahead and called animal control because in case you can't get out, I want your animals cared for and they'll do >> my ex-boyfriend's in town. I have him and he's not anyone that could help me. >> Well, if you can't rely on it, if you can't rely on him, you don't want to take that risk. >> Well, that's his dog. like his other dog is his. He'll come and help. Yeah. It's just more of like in the situation of um >> everything else. >> So, it can he come out the detective or >> Yeah, I'm going to go check right now. Just letting you finish up. Okay. Give me give me one second. Just wait with these deputies. I'll be right with you. Okay. Come on. Here you come. Be a good girl. >> You can put that one in the back seat. >> Hi, baby. Get in there. here. >> I love you. Daddy will pick you up. Okay. >> And his name is Poseidon. >> Yeah. >> All right. You ready? >> Yeah. >> All right. >> Um, >> go lock up and everything. We'll make sure it's locked. So, >> okay. I just feel weird having people have access to my house without me being here. I'm like having panic of that. >> We'll just They're not going to do anything. I promise. >> I know. >> Um, really? >> I'm just trying to think. Uh and then the boys do have at Publix to be picked up if they are unmanageable because they will pick up. >> Yeah. Okay. Okay. Okay. >> Okay. Okay. >> Okay. Thank you. >> You want to drink the rest of that and then >> Yeah. >> Hey, just relax. They're they're just making sure everybody's taken care of while you're in there and then that's it. No, it's just more of this is what depression looks like, you know, and I don't live like this. This is >> That's fine. No one no one's judging you on anything, right? If you're going through hard times, you're going through hard times. Everybody does. We understand that, you know, you don't have to you don't have to be depressed because of that. You need you should be happy that the dogs without a shadow of a doubt your dogs are taken care of, right? >> No, no, I am. And the fact that it was not me um because >> Are you guys done in there? >> Yeah, we're finished. >> They would have tried killing them. um they would have had to use a flight would have been much different. >> Listen, we we definitely did better to go on this route than >> than another way. So, all right, we'll go back here. >> That yellow form that I gave you, man, that real quick. >> Yeah, it's in the bag. I'll get it for you here real quick. >> I got to put you in cuffs. Okay. >> And he's about a year old. >> All right. Let's walk over this side here. Just you finished with it or you just set it there. That's fine. All right. You have to go behind you back. All right. >> Mhm. >> Just put your palms together like you're praying and put them in inward like it's going to be There you go. It's going to be the easy. I'm telling you, this will be the easiest on your wrist here. >> No, I just had surgery on my wrist. So, >> well, I won't put them on tight. Is that good? >> Yeah. I just mean they're not flexible like that. >> Oh, okay. Got you. Well, then put them however you however you want. >> You want it like that? >> Yeah. >> All right. Is that going to be okay? >> Yeah, that's fine. >> Let me Hold on. Let me lock it so they don't tighten up on you then. >> All right. >> Yeah. >> All right. I'll get air flow for you as we get moving here. >> Thank you. >> Well, I didn't get to check you. Is there anything on you I need to know about? Because I'm naked under this >> cuz I don't want you to get charged on stupid. >> I have don't even have a bra or underwear on. I >> All right. >> All right. Just watch your knees and then we'll get it down so we can get you down there and get you out of the cuffs. All right, boys. Thank you. >> Yes, sir. Thank you. Deputy Davis earns a grade of A minus for accurate statutory classification, proper administration of the oath, and transparent handling of third party property recovery with only minor informality in his interview demeanor. Detective Richardson receives an A for textbook warrant execution. Complete on camera reading of the warrant, written property receipt documentation, and sustained professional composure during an emotionally volatile encounter. The apprehension sergeant likewise earns an A for trauma-informed deescalation, modified handcuffing, accommodating a reported surgical injury, and coordination of animal welfare without compromising officer safety or evidentiary integrity. The suspect earns a Dminus. The alleged pattern of defrauding multiple dealerships across three counties within a single week demonstrates specific intent, which disclosed mental health conditions alone do not negate under Florida law. Beyond the charges filed, this incident leaves behind five essential lessons for consumers, dealerships, and law enforcement professionals alike. Study them carefully. Lesson one, a worthless check used to obtain property is fraud, not theft. The correct charge under Florida law is schemed to defraud codified at section 817034. And officers must classify accurately from the first interview. Lesson two. Dealerships must verify available funds before releasing high-V value vehicles. Business registry checks and matching identification cannot on their own detect a professionally forged payment instrument. Lesson three, private vehicle telematics data lawfully shared by the registered owner is not restricted by Carpenter v. United States because no government surveillance occurs when a private party voluntarily provides location data to law enforcement. Lesson four, third party consent to seize property requires actual or apparent authority. A lease holder may authorize vehicle removal from his driveway when the suspect is absent and raises no contemporaneous objection. Lesson five, a felony arrest executed at the residential threshold is constitutional since Pton v. New York only prohibits warrantless entry into the home itself. If you found this analysis valuable, please give this video a thumbs up and subscribe to our channel for more in-depth legal breakdowns of real body camera footage.