From the Indiana State Police:
In June of 2024, Indiana State Police Master Trooper Detective Tim Denby of the Special Investigations, Organized Crime and Corruption division, began an investigation into a former employee of the Sullivan Automotive Group. During his investigation, it was discovered that from April 2020 to April 2023, this former employee had allegedly deprived the Sullivan Automotive Group of funds.
Through a diligent criminal investigation, several schemes were discovered indicating that Joseph A. Mascari, age 57, of Terre Haute, Indiana, who was part owner of the Sullivan Automotive Group during that time, allegedly committed numerous thefts and forgeries, extended unauthorized control, and inflated the amounts of invoices for self-gain in the amount of cash monies totaling approximately $297,000.00.
After reviewing the investigation, the Sullivan County Prosecutor, Ann Mischler, requested an arrest warrant for Mascari. He was arrested this afternoon without incident and is currently in the Sullivan County Jail on a $117,000 bond with 10% allowed.
Assisting Officers: Trooper Chandler Stanton, Trooper Tyler Turchi, Trooper Caleb Hughes, and Trooper Brandon Bonebrake of the Putnamville State Police Post.
Arrested and Charges: Joseph A. Mascari, 57, Terre Haute, IN
- Corrupt Business Influence, Class 5 Felony
- Theft Value of Property Greater Than $50,000, Class 5 Felony
- Theft Where Value of Property is between $750 & $50,000, Class 6 Felony (5 counts)
- Forgery With Intent to Defraud, Class 6 Felony (5 counts)
No photo was available at the time of the release.
Under the law, criminal charges are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.