Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan reports today around 12:25 p.m., deputies arrested Godofredo Quiroz, 58, of Jefferson, after a fraud investigation involving his auto shop in Lyons, Oregon. 

In mid-April, deputies learned about a missing 1955 Ford Thunderbird which was supposed to be at Canyon Auto Service getting restored. The victim had purchased the vehicle in 2023 from a third party, who was in the process of having it restored at the autobody shop, before selling it to the victim. The investigation revealed Quiroz was the mechanic in charge of the restoration. It was learned although Quiroz no longer had possession of the vehicle, he began billing the victim for parts and work done.  At this time, it is unknown what had happened to the vehicle or where it is located.  Since purchasing the vehicle, the victim paid over $10,000 to Canyon Auto Service, thinking the vehicle was being restored. The victim discovered the theft after Quiroz requested final payment but was not able to provide the restored vehicle. 

Quiroz was arrested yesterday and lodged at the Linn County Sheriff’s Office Jail on charges of Theft I and Forgery II. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Linn County Sheriff’s Office at 541-967-3950.