05/19/2026
Vestavia Hills Police Department
Shane Ware Chief of Police
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DATE: May 19, 2026
Month-Long Investigation Leads to Arrests in Organized Vehicle Fraud and Theft Operation
VESTAVIA HILLS, Ala. --
The Vestavia Hills Police Department announces the successful conclusion of a month long investigation into suspected vehicle theft, title fraud, and odometer tampering activities operating within the area.
Over the course of several weeks, investigators employed a combination of investigative techniques, including License Plate Reader (LPR) technology, surveillance operations, intelligence gathering, and undercover efforts to identify individuals believed to be connected to an organized vehicle fraud operation.
During the investigation, undercover investigators met with a suspect believed to be involved in the sale of vehicles with salvaged titles and inaccurate odometer readings. Through these efforts, investigators identified a residence being used to store multiple vehicles suspected of being connected to the operation.
As the investigation progressed, investigators identified several individuals believed to be associated with the vehicle theft ring and ultimately obtained search warrants for the residences.
The ex*****on 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. As a result of this operation, the following individuals were arrested for Theft of Property 1st, with additional charges pending;
Amar Serban
Alondra Serban
Ramona Serban
Marius Serban
Marian Dumitru
Bernardo Mihai
Investigators have 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.
The Vestavia Hills Police Department encourages 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 would also like to thank 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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Media Contact: Captain Mike Keller
Public Information Officer
(205) 978-0185 | [email protected]
