A husband and wife duo from South Florida, who operate a high-end car dealership, are now confronting dozens of criminal charges after an extensive investigation uncovered an alleged vehicle title fraud scheme. The scheme reportedly involved luxury automobiles with a total value exceeding half a million dollars.
Details of the Alleged Fraud
Michael Anthony Lucci, aged 32, and Emily Marie Lucci, 30, the proprietors of Luxury Auto Source located in Davie, Florida, were apprehended following a probe by the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP). Authorities determined that multiple vehicles sold through their dealership had titles secured using falsified or altered repair invoices.
According to official jail records and arrest reports, the couple is facing a staggering 38 offences. These charges include serious allegations such as racketeering, organised fraud, perjury, uttering forged instruments, and possession of counterfeit vehicle titles or registrations.
How the Investigation Unfolded
The investigation commenced in January when officials scrutinised documentation submitted for a specific vehicle: a 2020 Nissan GT-R. Records indicate that Emily Lucci filed paperwork at a Miami-Dade tag agency, seeking a rebuilt title for this car. This application was supported by an invoice claiming repairs costing more than USD 18,000.
However, investigators later discovered that the legitimate repair expenses for the vehicle amounted to nearly USD 1,200. Subsequently, the Nissan GT-R was listed for sale at USD 94,500, which was almost USD 40,000 higher than its previous sale price in 2022.
Expansion of the Probe
Following this initial finding, the Florida Highway Patrol broadened its investigation to include other vehicles listed by the dealership. Authorities identified eight additional luxury vehicles with rebuilt Florida titles that were allegedly obtained through falsified or manipulated invoices.
The list of these high-end cars is quite impressive and includes:
- A 2022 Porsche 911 priced at USD 187,900
- A 2017 Bentley listed for USD 63,900
- A 2018 BMW M3
- A 2020 Toyota Supra
- A 2022 Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat
- A 2023 Cadillac Escalade
Investigators noted that the Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat raised particular concerns. This vehicle reportedly contained multiple Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) and an engine that was traced back to a car stolen from North Carolina.
Legal Consequences and Warnings
In arrest documents, an investigator stated that all nine vehicles involved in the scheme are considered contraband. This classification is due to their titles being acquired through fraudulent means.
Authorities have issued a stern warning to potential buyers. Any individuals who purchased these vehicles could face seizure and forfeiture of the cars. This means they might lose both the automobile and the money they paid for it.
Arrest and Current Status
Michael Lucci was taken into custody during the execution of a search warrant at the dealership. Emily Lucci later surrendered to authorities voluntarily. Both individuals were released after posting a bond of USD 30,000 each.
As of now, no attorney information has been publicly listed for either defendant. The Florida Highway Patrol has not issued any further comments on the ongoing case.
