SANDUSKY — It started with a simple call to the Sandusky Police Department on November 1. Walt Kapiskoski wanted to report a vehicle stolen from his lot on West Perkins Avenue. He’d even found it—sitting at another business in Perkins Township. But when officers arrived to investigate the “theft,” they stumbled upon something far more lucrative and illegal than a single missing car.
The Investigation: According to Sandusky Police Chief Jared Oliver, a preliminary look into that stolen vehicle led investigators to pull the thread on Kapiskoski’s entire business model. What they found was a suspected multi-year operation involving “inaccurate and inappropriate forms” submitted to the state.
The Alleged Scheme: Kapiskoski is suspected of using notarized government documents containing false information to illegally obtain titles for vehicles towed to his lot.
Scope: Chief Oliver confirmed there are as many as 25 instances, and likely many more, involving vehicles Kapiskoski took possession of through his towing business.
Duration: The investigation suggests this has been going on for “at least the last few years, if not longer.”
The Twist: In a classic “oops” moment, some of the vehicles Kapiskoski allegedly obtained titles for illegally were vehicles he towed at the request of area police departments. While Oliver clarified there is no suspicion of police misconduct or contract issues, the irony is thick: Kapiskoski was allegedly using his position on the police rotation list to feed his private title mill.
Current Status & Charges:
The Charge: Kapiskoski was arrested recently and charged with a single count of Engaging in a Pattern of Corrupt Activity.
The Grand Jury: A broader case has been presented to an Erie County Grand Jury for consideration of additional charges.
More to Come: Chief Oliver indicated that more suspects (at least two others) are under investigation and that additional charges against Kapakowski are highly likely.
The Fallout: Since the investigation began in November, Kapiskoski has been suspended from police towing lists. As Oliver put it, he’s effectively “stopped towing for everybody.”