A couple in Florida, Michael Anthony Lucci, 32, and Emily Marie Lucci, 30, is currently facing multiple criminal charges linked to a suspected title fraud scheme at their car dealership, Luxury Auto Source. They have been charged with nine counts each of false statements on a bill of sale application, possession of false vehicle titles, perjury, and uttering a forged instrument, alongside one count each of extortion and organized fraud, as per jail records.
Their arrest came on January 21, following an investigation initiated by the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) into their business practices. Allegedly, the couple submitted fake parts invoices for a 2020 Nissan GT-R, which triggered the inquiry. It was later discovered that the true cost of repairs was significantly lower than what they claimed – approximately $1,200 instead of the more than $18,000 they reported. Furthermore, the vehicle’s sale price had jumped from $55,000 in 2022 to $94,500.
As investigators probed deeper, they found more potential frauds tied to additional vehicles they were trying to sell. Another example is a 2017 Bentley listed at $63,900, plus a 2022 Porsche 911 marked at $187,900. It also appears that one Dodge Charger in their inventory had several Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) and was traced back to a stolen vehicle from North Carolina.
Officials noted that nine vehicles from their dealership were obtained through fraudulent means, posing a serious risk to unsuspecting buyers who might end up losing both their car and their money if these vehicles were seized. Michael Lucci was apprehended when a search warrant was executed, while Emily turned herself in afterward. They were later released after posting bail of $30,000.
At this time, attorneys for the Luccis have not been identified, and the FHP did not provide immediate comments regarding the case.
