Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt announced that William F. Smith, proprietor of “RestoMod Garage,” a car modification garage which operated in the Eldon area, has been charged with consumer fraud and stealing.

A news release says Smith faces 13 counts in Miller County for defrauding consumers, financially exploiting elderly Missourians, and stealing.

The charges allege that Smith took money from customers for vehicle modification and restoration services, but failed to provide the services. The charges also allege that Smith failed to properly house customer vehicles, exposing them to the elements and causing deterioration, and that Smith returned customers’ vehicles stripped of parts.

Smith is alleged to have defrauded 11 consumers, three of whom are elderly and six are veterans.

Missourians who believe they may have been scammed by Smith or any other vehicle-modification mechanic should file a complaint with the Missouri Attorney General’s Office by calling the Consumer Protection hotline at (800) 392-8222 or submitting a complaint online at ago.mo.gov.