Three people in Brookfield, WI, have been charged with multiple counts of theft by false representation for allegedly rolling back odometers, altering vehicle titles and reselling cars at inflated prices, according to the Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI).
Authorities said Marvin Reed Trotter, 53, Nycole Cavins, 55, and Marvel S. Trotter, 27, collectively removed an estimated 4.5 million miles from at least 70 vehicles before reselling them. The trio, who own an auto body shop in Butler, WI, allegedly purchased vehicles on Facebook Marketplace, manipulated their mileage, and falsified title documents before putting them back on the market at higher prices.
“Deceptive practices like those alleged in this case are unacceptable,” Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul said in a statement. “Thank you to those involved in the investigation and prosecution of this case.”
The Wisconsin DOJ did not specify how long the scheme had been in operation or the financial impact on victims. However, odometer fraud remains a significant concern in the used car market, as it can mislead buyers about a vehicle’s condition and longevity.
The case was investigated by DCI and is being prosecuted by the Waukesha County District Attorney’s Office. A preliminary hearing for Marvin Trotter and Cavins is scheduled for April 14.
As with all criminal proceedings, the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
