The owner of a car dealership in Virginia has apologized to a former customer who was arrested and hauled off to jail for “auto theft” — even though he had a signed contract to buy the car he supposedly had stolen.

Unfortunately, many dealers threaten their customers with arrest, if they balk at signing subsequent contracts on worse terms — a scam known as a “yo-yo” sale. Some dealers have even gotten authorities to prosecute and convict their customers — even though they had a signed contract, the keys, and all other relevant records. Some had even started making payments.

This is yet another reason why it’s smartest to NEVER get financing at a car dealership, and to immediately seek legal help from an auto fraud expert if a car dealer threatens you with arrest.

Read more:
Virginian Pilot report