New Lenox Police: Chicago Man Arrested After Scamming Jeep Seller With $33K Fake Check
NEW LENOX, Ill. — A Chicago man is behind bars after allegedly scamming a Jeep seller with a $33,000 counterfeit cashier’s check, according to the New Lenox Police Department. Authorities confirmed that the suspect was arrested while still driving the stolen vehicle.
The Fraudulent Transaction
The case began on Friday, August 16, when the victim met the suspect, identified as Anthony Huff, for the private sale of a Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT-8. Police said Huff provided the seller with $4,000 in cash along with a cashier’s check for $33,000 to complete the purchase.
At first, the check appeared legitimate, and the seller released the vehicle. However, when the victim deposited it, the bank quickly flagged it as fraudulent, prompting him to alert local authorities.
Investigation and Arrest
Detectives launched an investigation, reviewing video surveillance and working with the Tri County Auto Theft Task Force. Within days, Huff was located during a traffic stop in Chicago’s 5th District by tactical officers.
Police said Huff was driving the stolen Jeep at the time of his arrest. A search also uncovered forged financial documents and a fake driver’s license, linking him further to the scheme.
Charges Filed
Following his arrest, Huff was transported to the New Lenox Police Department, where he was booked and charged with:
- Forgery
- Theft
- Aggravated possession of a stolen motor vehicle
- Burglary
Officials noted that the case remains under investigation, but Huff’s arrest highlights growing concerns about fraud in private auto sales.
Police Warning to the Public
In response to the incident, New Lenox Police are reminding residents to take extra precautions when selling or buying vehicles privately. Suggested safety measures include:
- Meeting at designated “safe exchange zones” near police stations.
- Verifying cashier’s checks directly with the issuing bank before finalizing sales.
- Using secure digital or bank-to-bank transfers for large amounts.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has reported a nationwide rise in scams involving fake cashier’s checks, many targeting private sellers of vehicles. Victims often realize the fraud only after the scammer has vanished with their property.
Local law enforcement agencies across Illinois have observed an uptick in similar cases tied to online marketplaces. Criminals frequently pose as legitimate buyers, using counterfeit checks or fake financing approvals to steal vehicles.
Thanks to coordinated efforts between New Lenox Police, Tri County Auto Theft Task Force, and Chicago Police, Huff was stopped before the Jeep could be resold or stripped for parts.
Huff remains in custody pending legal proceedings. Police encourage anyone with information about related scams to come forward.
Have you or someone you know ever been approached with a suspicious cashier’s check? Share your thoughts in the comments on SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.
