LOWER SOUTHAMPTON TWP., N.J. (WPVI) — Police in Lower Southampton Township say an international car sale scam with ties to Bucks County left a local man out tens of thousands of dollars, and investigators believe there may be more victims.
According to police, the suspect used fake websites and artificial intelligence-generated images to convince the victim he was purchasing a 1969 Camaro. Detectives say the suspect is believed to be living in Romania.
The victim, who asked not to be identified, told investigators the transaction was not a quick decision. He said the process stretched over several days and involved repeated communication with the supposed seller, who provided what appeared to be detailed proof that the car existed.
“It was unbelievable,” he says, “to the point where I said he had my name on the hood of the car with a white piece of paper and the date. And the car was already tied down to the trailer.”
Police say the victim ultimately wired $34,000 to the seller. Investigators now allege the entire sale was fraudulent.
Lower Southampton police have identified 32-year-old Ion Cojocaru as the suspect. Authorities say Cojocaru has registered businesses in the United States but lives in Romania.
Police Chief Ted Krimmel said investigators believe those businesses are shell companies and that the car advertised for sale may not exist at all.
The chief says, “He knew enough to come here, set up the scam, leave the country, and do everything from a computer. We’ve actually been in touch with him via email. He knows we’re looking for him.”
Lower Southampton police have issued an arrest warrant for Cojocaru, and Interpol is assisting with the case. Despite that, the victim said he believes the alleged scammer is continuing to post similar vehicle listings online.
“I see that he’s already been posting sale articles on Facebook with basically using the same kind of identity and wherewithal that he did before,” he says.
The victim also says he remains hopeful he could one day recover his money, but his primary goal is accountability.
“I would love them to at least get him. You know what I mean? Because, again, it’s not just me. I know there’s many other people out there that he’s done this to.”
Experts advise consumers to take precautions when making high-end online purchases, including using well-known or verified platforms, researching sellers thoroughly, and choosing secure payment methods.
They also warn against wire transfers, gift cards, and cryptocurrency, which are commonly used in scams and are difficult to trace or recover.
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