A Milwaukee man says his nearly brand-new 2025 Honda CR-V was stolen, then dangled in front of him by text message, complete with photos and a receipt that listed his phone number. The texter allegedly wanted money to give it back, leaving owner D.J. Todd feeling like his SUV was, in his words, "being held for ransom." He reported the vehicle missing after it disappeared last Saturday near 21st and Wells streets.
Texts came with photos, a receipt and a "finder's fee" request
According to WISN, an unknown sender texted Todd, writing "good morning, i think i found something that belongs to you" and "been sitting here for almost a week now." The messages included a photo of the CR-V and a receipt that showed Todd's phone number, along with a request for a small finder’s fee. Todd told the station he called the number that sent the texts, but the person hung up when asked where the car was. WISN said it forwarded the screenshots to Milwaukee police and had not received a response by Friday night.
What Milwaukee officials say to do when your car is stolen
The City of Milwaukee advises residents who discover a vehicle has been stolen to call the Milwaukee Police non-emergency line at 414-933-4444 or file a police report online. That allows officers to enter the vehicle into national databases and supports both recovery efforts and insurance claims.
Owner says SUV vanished from 21st and Wells
Todd told WISN his 2025 Honda CR-V was taken Saturday from the area of 21st and Wells. He said the texts, especially the photo of the receipt with his number, made him feel as if the vehicle was being held for ransom. He has a police report on file and is urging anyone with information to contact authorities, as questions remain about who sent the messages and where the SUV is now.
Police caution: do not pay up to get your car back
Police warn against meeting strangers or handing over cash in situations like this. Instead, they advise keeping screenshots of all messages, recording the vehicle’s VIN and license plate, and sharing that information with investigators and your insurance company. The City of Milwaukee's reporting guidance outlines how to file a report and contact the department for follow-up.
