November 9, 2010
http://www.boston.com/news/local/rhode_island/articles/2010/11/09/ri_car_dealer_son_face_money_laundering_charges/
PROVIDENCE, R.I.—The head of a Providence used car dealership and his son are being detained on federal money laundering charges after they allegedly sold vehicles to a person claiming to be a drug dealer.
Prosecutors say 49-year-old Domingo Lopez and 22-year-old Derlyn Lopez were arrested Tuesday on two counts of money laundering, capping a yearlong investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Authorities seized 17 vehicles from their Espaillat Motors Inc. and will move the court for their forfeiture, together with the business' assets.
Authorities allege that the suspects helped the purported drug dealer insert a hidden compartment in one of the cars. The also allegedly listed a lower price for the vehicles and concealed the identity of the buyer in official paperwork.
They face a maximum punishment of 20 years imprisonment and a $500,000 fine, if convicted.