Felony Charges for California Pair in $250K Classic Car Claim

Two people from California were arrested on a scheme allegedly involving the reported theft of an expensive classic car.

Constantine Petros, 54, of Petaluma, was arrested on Oct. 19 in Sonoma County. Also arrested was Christopher Hatton, 60, of Tahoma, who surrendered himself on Nov. 14.

Both were charged with felony counts of insurance fraud and conspiracy for filing a false insurance claim for the alleged theft of a classic 1955 Porsche 356 Speedster.

After receiving a suspicious claim referral from Farmers Insurance, the California Department of Insurance fraud division launched an investigation into circumstances surrounding Hatton’s claim that his $250,000 collectable 1955 Porsche 356 Speedster was stolen in Nevada.

The investigation revealed a connection between Petros and Hatton and an alleged conspiracy to file a false insurance claim for a stolen car Hatton never owned and was not stolen.

The alleged scheme began with Petros and Hatton creating a fraudulent paper trail showing Hatton purchased a the Porsche. Petros then reportedly provided a different Porsche so Hatton could secure an appraisal documenting the value of the collectible car.

If convicted on all counts, Petros and Hatton could face more than five years in prison.

Topics California Auto