SEDALIA, MO — Patricia Harris was arrested on July 3 after being caught using fraudulent documents to purchase a vehicle at McCarthy Toyota.
The case began when an Oklahoma resident received an alert that someone had used his social security number and identity without consent to buy a vehicle at the dealership. The victim, who did not know Harris, reported the misuse.
At the dealership, officers learned Harris had purchased a Volkswagen Jetta using a false ID and had listed another person’s name as co-signer. According to Harris, she visited McCarthy Toyota on June 29 and was told she needed a co-signer due to her credit situation. She claimed to have contacted her ex-boyfriend’s uncle to act as co-signer and submitted all documents on his behalf.
However, investigation revealed that Harris provided an altered driver’s license with false personal details, including a different name, birth date, and address. The photo on the license was actually of her ex-boyfriend.
During a search of Harris’s purse, police found a notebook paper containing another Oklahoma resident’s full personal information — including name, social security number, date of birth, address, and bank details. Harris told officers she was unaware the paper was in her purse. Multiple debit and credit cards were also discovered.
Harris was booked into Pettis County Jail and faces charges including Identity Theft, Trafficking in Stolen Identities, Filing False Documents, and Forgery.
The investigation continues, and authorities warn the public about the risks of identity fraud in vehicle purchases.
