What initially appeared to be a routine luxury car transaction in South Florida escalated into a federal operation, culminating in a dramatic arrest at Miami International Airport. Vitalii Stefurac, a 48-year-old businessman residing in Hallandale Beach, was apprehended by federal agents just minutes before he was set to board a flight bound for Cuba, which authorities believe was part of an escape plan ultimately leading to Russia.
Stefurac, who also goes by the name Viktor, owned Dream Auto Collection, a luxury car dealership located on Pembroke Road in Hollywood. He is accused of wire fraud, having allegedly pocketed nearly $300,000 sent by a buyer in Hawaii for a 2023 Mercedes-Benz G63 equipped with a BRABUS package that was never delivered.
The victim, Alan Sue from Makawao, Hawaii, transferred the funds in two installments in April of the previous year. Despite numerous communications and broken promises, the vehicle was never shipped, and the money was not returned. This led to a formal complaint being filed.
"I haven't seen a single penny," Sue told Local 10 News. "I believe Viktor took my money and went on expensive vacations. He went to Nepal, climbed a mountain, even sent me a picture. I think he also traveled to Europe. All with my money."
Authorities suspect Stefurac intended to permanently leave the United States, using an indirect route through Cuba to eventually reach Russia. The case gained visibility following an investigative report by Local 10 News in July 2024, which drew the attention of the FBI and federal prosecutors. They have filed charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, a federal offense carrying sentences of three to four years in prison.
After being detained, Stefurac appeared before a federal judge in Fort Lauderdale. He was released on bail, but the controversy persisted. Upon leaving the courthouse last Friday, journalist Jeff Weinsier confronted him with questions about the alleged fraud as he entered his girlfriend's Range Rover, a vehicle displaying a Police Benevolent Association license plate, raising further questions about his connections and apparent legitimacy.
If convicted, Stefurac faces not only a prison sentence but also an obligation to repay the full amount lost by the victim, in accordance with the Mandatory Victims Restitution Act. This federal law ensures that victims of crimes like wire fraud receive compensation as part of the judicial process.
The investigation remains open, and authorities have not ruled out the possibility of additional victims connected to Stefurac and his now-defunct business.
Authorities urge anyone who has conducted transactions with Dream Auto Collection and suspects fraud to contact the appropriate agencies. Dream Auto Collection, now closed, has been identified as a potential hub for illicit activities involving the sale of exotic and luxury sports cars.
With the arrest of its former owner, a new legal chapter unfolds, potentially bringing justice to those who were deceived.
Understanding the Stefurac Fraud Case
Who is Vitalii Stefurac?
Vitalii Stefurac, also known as Viktor, is a businessman from Hallandale Beach, Florida, who was arrested for allegedly committing wire fraud through his luxury car dealership, Dream Auto Collection.
What led to the arrest at Miami International Airport?
Stefurac was arrested at Miami International Airport while attempting to flee to Cuba, with an ultimate plan to reach Russia, in order to avoid prosecution for the alleged fraud.
What was the nature of the alleged fraud?
The alleged fraud involved Stefurac taking nearly $300,000 from a buyer for a luxury car that was never delivered, prompting charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
What could be the potential legal consequences for Stefurac?
If found guilty, Stefurac faces a prison sentence of up to four years and must repay the victim the full amount lost, as per the Mandatory Victims Restitution Act.