Snowplow Scam Artist Caught in the Act

Michael J. Agresta, 40, of Highland Heights, was arrested in Bath over the weekend after allegedly conning several area gas stations out of hundreds of dollars.

Area police chiefs say the scam was the same across Northeast Ohio: Agresta would pull up to gas stations in a snowplow truck, show fake invoices to clerks and demand payment for work he never completed.

"He committed the same offense at the Shell W. 117th Street and Clifton (Boulevard)," said Lakewood Police Chief Timothy Malley. 

When Agresta attempted the scam in Bath on Sunday evening, the attendant grew suspicious and alerted Bath poilce. 

Agresta was charged with attempted theft, a second-degree misdemeanor, and was handed over to Solon police, which had issued a warrant for his arrest on Jan. 30.

Now, Lakewood police are waiting for their turn to prosecute him. He's wanted for theft and attempted theft charges.

"We have a holder on him currently with the Solon Police Department." Malley said.

According to Solon police, Agresta badgered the employee until he was paid $80.

Agresta is being held in Solon Jail, and will be sent back to Bath once Solon's courts are done prosecuting him on theft charges.