An auto restoration business owner has been charged with with felony theft after a Tennessee couple reportedly lost nearly $40,000 in cash and classic vehicles.
Forty four year old Scott Michael Soika Sr. of Alden, faces a felony theft by swindle charge for allegedly taking money and vehicles under the guise of a restoration project that saw little progress. The complaint alleges Soika, owner of SS Customs LLC Auto Sales & Restoration, promised to restore a 1968 Chevy Chevelle in 60 days for $25,000, receiving a $12,500 down payment in June 2023.
The couple later provided an additional 1969 Chevelle for parts and $4,000 for materials. Over the following year, the complaint says Soika gave sporadic updates and failed to provide requested progress photos.
In September 2024, nearly 15 months after the project began, Soika reported the 1968 Chevelle stollen from his shop in rural New Richland. Investigators noted he was facing eviction at the time. A search of the property and local junkyards failed to locate the vehicles or the custom motor.
The total loss for the victims is estimated at $39,500. Soika was charged via summons on January 12th, and a court appearance will be scheduled to address the felony theft charge.
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