Marin County Car Repair Shop Owner Arrested on Suspicion of Fraud
Photo courtesy of Novato PD
Originally published 6-23-23 via Facebook
by the Novato Police Department:
“In April of 2022, a 1967 Mustang convertible was reported stolen. According to the victim, they left the vehicle with GPM Motors owner, Geoffrey Palermo, in 2020 for repairs. Over the next several months, the victim paid approximately $34,000 for repairs. After not hearing from Palermo, the victim visited Palermo’s shop and discovered he had closed his business and the Mustang had disappeared.
On June 14, 2023, the Novato Police Department’s Investigations Section located an advertisement on Craigslist for a similar Mustang. In an undercover capacity, a detective arranged to view the vehicle listed on Craigslist. Once the vehicle’s VIN was confirmed, NPD detectives arrested the seller. The seller was identified as Geoffrey Palermo. Palermo was arrested and booked into the Marin County Jail for several charges including fraud. The vehicle was recovered and returned to the rightful owner.
We would like to thank everyone involved in this case, as well as the victim, who provided accurate information to detectives, ultimately creating a successful outcome.
As always, report crimes as soon as possible to the Novato Police Department at 415-897-4361. In an emergency, call 9-1-1. We are here 24/7 to assist our community.”
