1 charged after several stolen cars found at Calgary auto dealership
Brooks Stella, 26, is charged with fraud and trafficking the proceeds of crime in connection with an investigation into International Motor Cars, a Calgary company. (Supplied/Facebook)
An Airdrie resident is facing several charges after police say they were caught in possession of several stolen vehicles.
The RCMP's auto theft unit, with help from Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams, Airdrie RCMP and the Calgary Police Service, arrested 26-year-old Brooks Stella on Aug. 28.
Authorities first launched an investigation into Calgary's International Motor Cars in 2023.
This summer, police executed search warrants at three locations in Calgary and Airdrie, which included two of the business' dealerships.
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During those searches, police recovered three vehicles they say were reported stolen and bore fraudulent vehicle identification numbers.
"These vehicles had been sold through the dealership or were advertised for sale. As well, an additional vehicle was located that was determined to be proceeds of crime," RCMP said in a news release.
Stella, the owner of the business, is charged with money laundering, possession of property obtained by crime for the purpose of trafficking, fraud over $5,000, possession of property obtained by crime, two counts of trafficking in property obtained by crime and forgery.
RCMP said they've reached out to the Alberta Motor Vehicle Industry Council (AMVIC) to contact customers of the dealership.
Stella was released from custody on a promise to appear in the Alberta Court of Justice in Airdrie on Oct. 23.
Stella sanctioned by AMVIC
In addition to the new charges laid on Wednesday, Stella was penalized by AMVIC for unlicensed activity connected to vehicle sales by another company called Calgary Powersports Inc.
According to the order, which is dated June 5, Stella was told to "immediately cease engaging in a designated automotive business within the province of Alberta."
AMVIC said he was acting in contravention of Alberta's Consumer Protection Act.
He was also told to remove all advertising related to the business and cancel all consignment sales until he acquires the proper licencing.
AMVIC said anyone who fails to comply with the order is guilty of an offence and could be prosecuted.
Stella's lawyer speaks out
Stella's legal counsel, Michael Kiss, tells CTV News Calgary, "Mr. Stella will vigorously defend against these charges in court. He looks forward to the opportunity to clear his name and restore his reputation."
The lawyer and his client have little to say publicly at this time, "But I can tell you that you can expect a civil claim to be filed on his behalf that will lend some colour to the entirety of the situation."
He went on to say, "Right now, we're dealing with fresh charges and we have obviously not had the opportunity to receive and review any disclosure whatsoever."
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