Scum Car Dealer Defrauds the Handicapped

A Philadelphia used car dealer, Edward Scott Rock, stands accused of defrauding over 100 disabled customers across the nation, amassing more than $2.5 million. The U.S. attorney's office in Philadelphia revealed that Rock, 47, failed to deliver wheelchair-accessible vehicles despite receiving payment between 2019 and this year. Shockingly, he sold the same 2017 Ford wheelchair-accessible van to 13 buyers over nearly a year, collecting $260,000 along the way. In one instance, when the vehicle was finally delivered, it lacked the proper title, as outlined in an indictment unsealed on Thursday.

Approximately 120 customers in 36 states fell prey to this alleged scam, with around two-thirds being individuals with physical disabilities, those over 65, or businesses providing transportation services to these populations. The victims faced financial losses as Rock, charged with mail and wire fraud, and mail fraud affecting a financial institution, now confronts a maximum sentence of 170 years in prison. Prosecutors are also pursuing restitution.

One victim, David Sodemann, co-founder of Boho Camper Vans, recounted his struggle to reclaim $25,000 wired for unreceived vans. The ordeal involved almost two years of persistent efforts, daily phone calls, and legal intervention before Rock eventually returned the money. Many other customers, however, were not as fortunate, facing bounced refund checks or stop-payment tactics by Rock. As the legal proceedings unfold, the expired license of Rock to sell cars in Pennsylvania further adds to the consequences he may face.


Credits: AutoBlog