Atlanta officers chase auto theft suspects that were involved in an online counterfeit scam

On 6/17/22, Officers with the Atlanta Police Department’s Auto Crimes Unit were in the area of 1160 Moreland Ave SE investigating three male suspects believed to be involved in multiple auto thefts acquired by using counterfeit currency. It appears the suspects operate online, often using the Facebook Marketplace to connect with persons selling dirt bikes.

The suspects contact the seller expressing interest in making a purchase and agree to meet with the seller at a designated location.

Upon meeting the sellers, the suspects ask to “test drive” the dirt bike and offer the seller to hold onto the agreed currency as collateral. The suspects then fled with the seller’s dirt bike and the victim is left with counterfeit bills.

On 6/17/22, investigators observed three male suspects believed to be directly involved in the online scam operation as they were attempting to scam another victim.

Officers immediately detained three males. A firearm was recovered from one of the suspects along with 46 $100 counterfeit Bills. Two of the arrestees were identified as: Trevon Jameal Bonner and Tracy Rashid Williams, the third male was a juvenile. They were charged with False Pretenses/Swindling under $10,000. Officers successfully prevented the suspects from committing another auto theft.

Bonner and Rashid were both transported to the Fulton County Jail as detectives investigate additional crimes the suspects are believed to be involved in. The investigation continues.

We would like to commend the Atlanta Police Department’s Auto Crimes Unit for their efforts in conducting a lengthy investigation leading to these arrests as well as Dekalb County PD for their assistance in the operation.