Vestavia Hills vehicle fraud investigation leads to 6 arrests
www.wbrc.com, May 19, 2026
VESTAVIA HILLS, Ala. (WBRC) - The Vestavia Hills Police Department arrested six people following a month-long investigation into suspected vehicle theft, title fraud and odometer tampering.
Investigators used License Plate Reader technology, surveillance operations, intelligence gathering and undercover efforts to identify individuals believed to be connected to an organized vehicle fraud operation.
Undercover investigators met with a suspect believed to be involved in the sale of vehicles with salvaged titles and inaccurate odometer readings. Investigators identified a residence being used to store multiple vehicles suspected of being connected to the operation.
Investigators identified several individuals believed to be associated with the vehicle theft ring and obtained search warrants for the residences.
The execution of the search warrant at locations in the 7000 block and the 2400 block of Colony Park Drive resulted in the recovery of multiple vehicles and evidence related to the investigation.
Police arrested the following individuals for first-degree theft of property with additional charges pending:
Amar Serban
Alondra Serban
Ramona Serban
Marius Serban
Marian Dumitru
Bernardo Miha
Investigators identified victims from across the southeastern United States who traveled to Vestavia Hills after locating vehicle listings on social media platforms. Many of these victims believed they were purchasing legitimate vehicles, only to later discover issues involving salvaged titles, fraudulent documentation or inaccurate odometer readings.
Police encourage the public to use caution when purchasing vehicles through online marketplaces or social media listings. One of the safest steps buyers can take is arranging to meet prospective sellers at the Vestavia Hills Police Department or another designated e-commerce safe zone. Buyers are also encouraged to independently verify vehicle history reports, title information and odometer accuracy prior to completing any purchase.
Anyone with information related to this investigation is encouraged to contact Investigator Italiano with the Vestavia Hills Police Department at 205-978-0239 or submit anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers.
The Vestavia Hills Police Department thanked its federal partners for their assistance in this investigation, as well as the following agencies: Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, St. Clair County Sheriff’s Office, Tuscaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, Hoover Police Department, Vance Police Department, Coaling Police Department and the ALDOT Office of Enforcement.
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News article: https://www.wbrc.com/2026/05/19/vestavia-hills-vehicle-fraud-investigation-leads-6-arrests/