A Florida man who ran a classic car restoration shop has been sentenced to two years in federal prison for orchestrating a $2.5 million fraud scheme that left dozens of customers across the country, including Upstate New York, without their vehicles or refunds. The sentencing concluded a multi-year investigation into complaints that the shop collected large upfront payments for restorations that were never completed.
The Fraud Scheme
The Florida shop marketed itself as a high-end restoration destination, promising concours-quality work on vehicles like 1960s Corvettes and early Mustangs. Investigators said the owner attracted clients nationwide through glossy ads, social media, and word-of-mouth, especially targeting Upstate New York collectors. Initially, smaller jobs were completed to gain trust, but larger, multi-stage restorations requiring six-figure deposits were never delivered. Federal authorities reported that the $2.5 million collected was spent on personal expenses rather than parts, labor, or equipment.
Impact on Upstate New York Customers
Victims in Upstate New York described shipping prized vehicles hundreds of miles, only to receive sporadic communication and no progress updates. Families reported losing heirloom cars, taking out loans, or dipping into savings to fund restorations. The community began sharing experiences in late 2024, which helped alert law enforcement and media to the pattern of fraud.
Federal Investigation and Charges
The FBI and U.S. Attorney’s Office investigated, obtaining shipping records, bank statements, and testimony from former employees. Evidence showed vehicles remained untouched while the owner solicited new deposits. The 2025 federal indictment charged the man with wire fraud and money laundering, citing falsified invoices, misleading progress updates, and diverted funds.
Sentencing and Restitution
In November 2025, the defendant pleaded guilty. The judge sentenced him to two years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered $2.5 million in restitution. Victims testified about the financial and emotional toll, including the loss of family heirlooms. Restitution efforts include seizing assets linked to the business to repay victims.
Industry Implications
The case has prompted scrutiny of restoration shops, especially those handling large upfront payments from out-of-state clients. Advocates recommend safeguards such as escrow accounts, detailed timelines, photo updates, and documentation of parts and labor. Classic car clubs in Upstate New York have begun compiling vetted lists of reputable shops and educating members on spotting warning signs.
Lessons for Collectors
Federal authorities are monitoring for similar frauds in the auto restoration sector. The case serves as a cautionary tale for collectors about sending high-value vehicles to distant shops without verifiable documentation. Investigators continue working to enforce restitution and prevent further scams, emphasizing careful due diligence when entrusting vehicles to any restoration business.
The Florida case underscores the risks of high-dollar restoration projects and has sparked calls for greater transparency and oversight in the classic car restoration industry.
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