Great Lakes Wire

Dinas Kamaitis, a 31-year-old from New Baltimore, Michigan, has been charged with selling counterfeit car parts, as announced by Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel. The charges reflect the first case brought under the Department of Attorney General's newly expanded Auto Fraud Task Force (AFTF). Kamaitis faces one count of using a computer to commit a crime, four counts of delivery or possession of property with counterfeit identifying marks, and four counts of selling counterfeit supplemental restraint systems. These charges range from four to seven-year felonies.

Kamaitis allegedly sold counterfeit restraint systems, including airbags, on his eBay store. Authorities have seized more than $600,000 from bank accounts connected to him. "Counterfeit parts are a serious public safety hazard on our roads," Attorney General Nessel stated, emphasizing the importance of the AFTF's mission. She affirmed her commitment to holding those accountable who put residents at risk, highlighting the ongoing partnership with the Michigan State Police as integral to combating these threats.

The AFTF was formed in January, stemming from an expansion of the Department's Auto Insurance Fraud Unit. Its broadened mission now includes tackling auto insurance fraud and large-scale criminal auto theft operations. Collaborating with the Michigan State Police Metro Detroit Auto-Theft Recovery Team, the task force aims to address advanced auto theft rings in Metro Detroit.

Kamaitis is scheduled for another court appearance on April 10, 2025, before Judge John M. Chmura in the 37th District Court in Warren at 9:30 a.m.