Thief steals cars by calling tow truck company - NBC12.com - Richmond, VA News

A Sandston man now has his cars back after somebody stole them from his property.

Police say the suspect stole the cars in an unusual way - by calling a tow truck company.

The drivers at Big Daddy Towing in Henrico County say its main business is roadside assistance, but it is also certified in towing salvaged cars.

Kevin Mahovtas said they got a call to take away several run down vehicles from a lot on Twin Pines Road last weekend.

"He claimed he was the owner, saying that their family member had passed away and there were vehicles that needed to be removed from the property. They were trying to clean the property up," said Mahovtas.

Mahovtas said the man did not have the titles, but that's not unusual since the cars are more than 20 years old.

"A lot of times these titles get lost," he said. "People lose titles or don't have them in their possession."

Mahovtas gave the man $325 for three cars and towed them away. Later, police called to tell him the vehicles were stolen.

The actual owner, Roger Russell, found out what happened from his neighbors.

"No one had no authority to come here on my property and remove any vehicles," said Russell.

Mahovtas said his company did everything they are obligated to do. He said because there was no title, tow drivers have to ask for an ID. The seller must then fill out a bill of sale and a removal certificate issued by the DMV.

He showed us the paperwork and even the name of the person pretending to own the cars. When asked if he recognized it, Russell said he did not. Now, both parties say they feel like victims.

"I think we were taken advantage of just for someone to make some money," said Mahovtas. 

Employees with Big Daddy Towing said they do not think  they'll stop towing salvaged cars for now.

Police said a warrant has been issued in this case that is still under investigation.

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