Revere man allegedly uses Everett auto dealerships to steal from customers and evade taxes

  Clesio Beninca, 56, of Revere, is facing charges of larceny, tax evasion and malicious destruction of property stemming from his operation of Ferry Street Auto Sales and Glendale Auto Brokers.

  According to Middlesex District Attorney Marian Ryan, Beninca stole more than $130,000 from six individuals “through fraudulent operations at his used car dealership.” It is also alleged that he withheld $86,000 in sales tax from the state. Reportedly, when Beninca sold a vehicle, the figure that appeared on the auto loan was noticeably higher than the original figure that was agreed upon. This discrepancy caused false RMV-1 forms to be filed with the Registry of Motor Vehicles.

  On numerous occasions, Beninca reportedly sold vehicles that had liens on them, making it impossible for the new owners to register the vehicles. In one instance, he promised to return the profits to a customer from a vehicle that was sold at auction. However, Beninca allegedly used the money to pay the debt he owed to the auctioneers.

  During Beninca’s arraignment on April 4, Assistant Clerk Magistrate Daniel Flaherty ordered that bail be set at $3,500 in cash. Beninca was also required to surrender his passport, not apply for a new one and to not travel outside New England.

  “This defendant is alleged to have repeatedly used his business to target and defraud victims and the people of the Commonwealth,” said Ryan. “This defendant is charged with repeatedly being untruthful about vehicle sales and personally profiting from these schemes. His actions not only impacted victims financially but disrupted their everyday lives by leaving them without reliable transportation.”

  Police Chief Steven Mazzie lauded the investigators for their tireless efforts. “I’m glad we were able to hold Mr. Beninca accountable for taking advantage and betraying the trust of members of our immigrant community,” he said.

  Beninca is now facing six counts of larceny over $1,200, being a common and notorious thief, two counts of tax evasion and malicious destruction of property. Under state law, if convicted, Beninca could be sentenced to up to 36 years in prison and be fined up to $60,000. He is scheduled to be back in court on April 25.