The owner of a used car dealership operating in Calgary and Airdrie, Brooks Stella, is facing several serious charges linked to a vehicle theft and re-vinning investigation.
On August 28, the RCMP Auto Theft Unit, in collaboration with the Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team and Calgary Police Services, conducted searches at three locations in Calgary and Airdrie as part of an ongoing investigation that began last year.
Two locations associated with the dealership, International Motor Cars, were searched, resulting in the discovery of three stolen and re-vinned vehicles. These vehicles had either been sold through the dealership or were advertised for sale, according to the RCMP. Additionally, another vehicle found on one of the lots was identified as proceeds of crime.
Brooks Stella, 26, of Airdrie, has been charged with multiple offenses, including money laundering, possession of property obtained by crime for trafficking purposes, fraud over $5,000, possession of property obtained by crime, forgery, and two counts of trafficking property obtained by crime.
The RCMP is working alongside the Alberta Motor Vehicle Industry Council (AMVIC) to assist the numerous victims impacted by the activities of International Motor Cars.
Stella has since been released from custody and is scheduled to appear in Airdrie court in two weeks.