Show-Me State Times

The Missouri Attorney General's Office has initiated legal proceedings against Select Motor Company, LLC, accusing the company of defrauding consumers by selling vehicles without providing titles. This practice leaves buyers without legal ownership and at risk of financial loss.

Attorney General Bailey emphasized the importance of consumer protection, stating, “Whether it’s a young family buying a car for work or a retiree relying on fixed income, no one should be left empty-handed by a business that refuses to play by the rules.” He assured continued efforts to combat fraud in Missouri.

The lawsuit was filed in Christian County Circuit Court and outlines how Select Motor Company allegedly violated state law by failing to provide valid certificates of title upon vehicle sale. In nine cited cases, consumers paid substantial amounts—some over $18,000—without receiving legal ownership or recourse.

Missouri law mandates auto dealers to transfer valid titles at delivery. The petition claims Select Motor knowingly breached Section 301.210, RSMo, and the Missouri Merchandising Practices Act (MMPA), which prohibits deceptive practices. Allegedly, the company also made false written promises to deliver titles within 30 days but failed to fulfill them.

The Attorney General's Office seeks several remedies from the court:

- Official recognition of affected consumers as lawful owners and issuance of legal titles through the Missouri Department of Revenue.

- Preliminary and permanent injunctions preventing Select Motor from further sales until compliance with state law is achieved.

- Full restitution for defrauded customers covering vehicle costs and additional losses like towing fees or registration fines.

- Civil penalties for each violation of the MMPA to deter similar conduct by other businesses.

- Reimbursement of all state-incurred legal costs related to prosecuting this case.

If successful, this action aims to restore ownership rights for affected Missourians and hold Select Motor accountable while warning other businesses against consumer deception.

Attorney General Bailey concluded with a firm stance on consumer rights: “Missourians deserve honesty and accountability when making major purchases like a vehicle. My Office will not tolerate businesses that prey on hardworking families by taking their money and withholding the legal documents they need to use or sell what they paid for.”