Used-car dealer in custody on felony

A Carson City businessman turned himself into authorities Thursday on a felony warrant pertaining to car sales.

The criminal complaint filed Wednesday in Carson City Justice Court charges Joe DiLonardo with obtaining money under false pretenses and falsifying ownership documents. The former owner of Great Western Motors and V&T Mercantile, 5925 Highway 50 East, allegedly notarized forged vehicle registration documents and sold a vehicle that he didn't have title to, according to court documents.

He was booked into the Carson City Jail at noon and was immediately released on his own recognizance.

DiLonardo was cited last month by DMV compliance enforcement officers for allegedly trying to sell three cars to an undercover officer. The citation is a misdemeanor violation of Nevada law requiring automobile dealers to be licensed by the DMV.

DMV officials said DiLonardo's license was revoked in December for violations relating to consignment vehicles and failure to pay court judgments.

DiLonardo did not immediately return calls for comment.

No decision has been made on charges stemming from an auction DiLonardo held at his business on Saturday, said Deputy District Attorney Matt Griffin.

"It's under investigation," he said.