In a scheme that preys on unsuspecting sellers, two Fremont men were arrested by the Placer County Sheriff's Office for conducting what is known as an "oil-in-the-engine" scam. The suspects, 19-year-old Iulian Mihai and 36-year-old Decebal Mihai, stand accused of duping vehicle sellers into believing their cars had severe mechanical issues, according to a post shared by the sheriff's office. The scam operates by the con artists covertly causing the car to smoke during a test drive, compelling the owner to sell at a fraction of its value.
Last week, a Newcastle local didn't fall for the trick and instead contacted the authorities after noticing the unlikely mechanical failure during a test drive with the suspects. The sheriff's office laid a trap to catch the fraudsters by arranging for them to return to Newcastle, where instead of an easy mark, they found deputies ready to conduct an arrest. As reported by the Placer County Sheriff's Office, the pair arrived and were promptly taken into custody.
Following their arrest, a search of their vehicle unearthed counterfeit documents and evidence suggesting identity theft. The Regional Auto Theft Task Force (RATTF) later discovered that the 4Runner the Mihai duo used to get to Newcastle was also acquired through similar underhanded means from an owner in the Bay Area. "The original owner had been tricked into selling her car for less than 25% of its value," stated the sheriff's office.
Both individuals are currently booked at the South Placer Jail, facing charges including theft by false pretenses, conspiracy, possession of counterfeit registration materials, and identity theft—all of which are being treated as felony crimes. In an ongoing effort to proactively protect the community, the sheriff's office reminds citizens—"If you’re meeting someone to buy or sell a vehicle or any other large item, please take precautions." They encourage the public to utilize the parking lot at any sheriff's office locations for safer exchanges.
