MADISON COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT) — Samuel Matthew Johnson, the owner of Smoke Johnson’s Customs in Huntsville, was arrested for theft after failing to complete paid vehicle work.
On February 4, the Madison County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) received two theft complaints involving Johnson’s shop, located on Jack Kendall Way. Victims reported paying Johnson for custom vehicle work that was never done, and they never received the parts either.
As the investigation progressed, four more victims came forward, all describing similar issues of payments made without any completed work. In total, six victims reported losing approximately $135,000.
Each victim had receipts and invoices documenting their payments, but despite multiple attempts to contact Johnson, their efforts went unanswered.
After the complaints, Johnson closed his original shop and moved to a new location in Ardmore. Investigators attempted to reach him, but their calls and messages were ignored. Johnson’s new shop also appeared to be closed during regular business hours.
On February 13, detectives executed a search warrant at a storage unit rented by Johnson. They found multiple vehicle parts that had been paid for by the victims, but never used for the promised vehicle work.
After reviewing the evidence, the Madison County District Attorney’s Office issued warrants for Johnson’s arrest, charging him with five counts of first-degree theft by deception.
Johnson was arrested earlier today and is currently being held at the Madison County Jail on a $30,000 bond.
