He would sell used cars to recovering addicts in an effort to assist them in getting back on their feet, only to fail to deliver the vehicles.
Recovering from addiction can be an intimidating process. It becomes even more challenging when trying to secure employment or find suitable housing. The lack of transportation can make everything seem impossible. Aaron Edmond Hayes, a mechanic from Atlanta, Georgia, took advantage of individuals in recovery who were seeking a new beginning.
Hayes operated a business known as Wheels N Recovery, specializing in the sale of pre-owned vehicles to individuals in recovery. The concept behind his venture was simple yet effective: utilizing his expertise as a mechanic, Hayes would refurbish used cars and offer them at discounted prices. This unique approach garnered significant success, as evidenced by the impressive number of 22 buyers drawn to his offerings.
Hayes faced allegations of failing to fulfill his promise of delivering the cars he had been paid for. Subsequently, he was brought to court, and the Attorney General of Georgia handed down a sentence of one year in prison and two years of work release. Additionally, he was instructed to reimburse each customer for the cars that were never received.
According to ANF, the total amount owed by the individual to all 22 customers is just over $76,000. Additionally, he is facing six counts of felony theft by deception.
Attorney General Austin Gatson expressed his satisfaction with the outcome, stating that the defendant was being held fully accountable for taking advantage of vulnerable individuals. He further emphasized that the resolution was a positive one as it ensured that the money taken by the defendant would be returned to the rightful owners.
One victim said she met the scammer through church
In December of 2023, Kelly Meadows shared with WSB-TV that she was introduced to Hayes by a fellow church member.
“He seemed like a really nice guy,” she said. “Two different girls I know actually got vehicles through him, so it seemed trustworthy to me.”
After completing her rehab program, she diligently saved up for months to purchase a car. With great anticipation, she handed over $2,000 to Hayes, hoping to finally have her own set of wheels. Unfortunately, instead of fulfilling his end of the deal, all she received from him were a series of empty excuses.
“He promised to refund me within seven to ten days, but when that time passed and I still hadn’t received my refund, things started to seem suspicious.”
It all clicked for her when Hayes got caught for his elaborate scam. She had been using her mom’s car to commute to work as she tries to save up once more.
“I hope he gets better but he’s got to pay,” said Meadows’ mother. “He’s got to pay for what he did and for the money he took from people.”