Miller County man charged with fraud, stealing

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

Schmitt said in a news release that Smith faces 13 counts in Miller County for defrauding consumers, financially exploiting elderly Missourians and stealing.

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

Smith is alleged to have defrauded 11 consumers. Three victims were elderly, and six victims were veterans.

The prosecution is being jointly conducted by Schmitt's office and Miller County Prosecuting Attorney Benjamin Winfrey.

Anyone who believes they may have been scammed by Smith or any other vehicle modification mechanic should file a complaint with the Attorney General's Office by calling the Consumer Protection hotline at 800-392-8222 or submitting a complaint at ago.mo.gov.