Unraveling the Tangled Web of Automotive Fraud: A Cautionary Tale

In a shocking turn of events, a 46-year-old Attleboro man has been arrested in connection with a wide-ranging fraud investigation at his used car business in Swansea, Massachusetts. The case has left a trail of victims in its wake, highlighting the importance of due diligence and consumer protection in the automotive industry.

Uncovering a Deceptive Scheme: The Alarming Allegations Against Bristol County Auto Exchange

The Alleged Fraud Scheme

According to the Swansea police, the investigation began in May when a total of 35 individuals came forward to report being defrauded by Bristol County Auto Exchange, the used car business owned by the accused, Edward Cicciu. The authorities allege that Cicciu engaged in a complex scheme that involved obtaining cars on loan from a local auctioneer, selling them to unsuspecting buyers, and then failing to deliver the necessary paperwork, leaving the buyers unable to register the vehicles.

The Auction House Entanglement

The police claim that Cicciu would physically receive the cars from the auctioneer but would not pay the full cost or obtain the titles until after the vehicles were sold. Instead, he would attach fake license plates to the cars and tell the buyers that he would mail them the title and registration documents. However, the authorities allege that Cicciu would then disappear, leaving the buyers without the necessary paperwork and the auction company still owning the vehicles, which they are now in the process of repossessing.

The Growing List of Victims

The initial investigation uncovered 25 fraud victims, but as the case unfolded, the police learned of 10 additional cases. Cicciu is currently facing a slew of charges, including nine counts of larceny over $1,200 by false pretenses, eight counts of forgery and misuse of RMV documents, 13 counts of failure to deliver a title upon motor vehicle transfer, four counts of larceny of a motor vehicle, and one count of larceny by check over $1,200. The authorities have stated that they expect additional charges to be filed in the coming days as the investigation continues.

A Call for Vigilance and Consumer Protection

The Swansea police have urged anyone who believes they may have been a victim of Cicciu's alleged fraud to come forward and contact them at 508-674-8464. This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of due diligence and consumer protection in the automotive industry. Buyers must be vigilant when purchasing used vehicles, ensuring that all necessary paperwork is provided and that the transaction is legitimate.

The Ongoing Investigation and Potential Consequences

As the investigation continues, the authorities are working to unravel the full extent of Cicciu's alleged fraudulent activities. The charges he currently faces are serious, and if convicted, he could face significant legal consequences. The case also highlights the need for stronger regulations and oversight in the used car industry to prevent such deceptive practices from occurring in the future.