CHEBOYGAN CO., MI -- A businesses's scrap metal scam in Cheboygan County has been put to a stop.
Cheboygan County Sheriff Dale Clarmont says a local Cheboygan businessman helped police find the leaders of a scrapping scam based in Sterling Heights.
At the end of January, a local businessman received a phone call from a company calling themselves "Liberty Surplus" and inquired about any scrap they could buy. A deal was made involving several thousand dollars with the businessman. The downstate men came to Cheboygan, paid half the amount, and left with copper wiring along with a promise of coming back. The businessman knew something was fishy, so he contacted police. Investigators were able to locate the men in Sterling Heights, Michigan. Assistance from the Sterling Heights Police Department led to their identification. 29-year old Clinton Township resident Michael Mitchell was identified.
According to Sterling Heights Police, Michael Mitchell and his family are on the police radar. Members of the family move around, making profits on scams.
The Mitchell family's attorney said the victim will be reimbursed.. At this time, the victim is not pursing charges.
Sheriff Clarmont warns businesses if they are approached by anyone in this situation ask for and receive complete payment before exchanging property, and if they feel they are being scammed ask for identification, business cards and if possible obtain a license plate number and vehicle description and call your local police right away.
