By Shawn Henry 
A former Texas hot rod shop owner has been sentenced to 60 years in prison after authorities concluded a years-long fraud scheme that affected dozens of classic car owners across the state. Prosecutors say the case represents one of the largest classic car–related theft investigations ever handled in the region.
Richard Thomas Finley, the former owner of Classic American Street Rods, was sentenced Tuesday following his conviction on felony theft charges. The shop operated in the San Leon–Bacliff area of Texas, roughly 40 miles southeast of Houston, where customers entrusted Finley with prized vehicles for restomod engine conversions that were never completed.
According to the Galveston County District Attorney’s Office, Finley advertised modern engine installations for classic cars and required large deposits before beginning work. Investigators later determined that while payments were collected, little to no work was performed on many of the vehicles. Customers reported months or even years of delays without meaningful progress or updates.
The case escalated when the Galveston County Auto Crimes Task Force launched an investigation into mounting complaints. Authorities determined that Finley stole more than $498,000 from 72 victims between 2018 and 2023. Prosecutors also alleged that Finley removed parts from customer vehicles stored at his shop and sold them to other buyers without the owners’ knowledge.
During a week-long jury trial, 28 victims testified about their experiences. Many described being misled repeatedly about the status of their vehicles after paying significant upfront costs. Investigators concluded that the fraud extended beyond financial losses, leaving customers without access to their vehicles and, in some cases, missing irreplaceable parts.
On Dec. 19, the jury found Finley guilty of felony theft exceeding $300,000. On Jan. 6, Jeth Jones, judge of the 122nd District Court, imposed the 60-year prison sentence. The court also ordered Finley to pay $495,678.65 in restitution to the victims.
Authorities reported a positive outcome amid the extensive losses. More than 20 classic cars were recovered during the investigation and returned to their rightful owners, bringing some measure of closure to victims who had feared their vehicles were permanently lost.
The case serves as a cautionary reminder within the collector car community, highlighting the importance of due diligence when entrusting rare and valuable vehicles to restoration shops.