Local tow operator indicted

SANDUSKY — A Sandusky businessman is facing a slew of charges after a monthslong investigation by Sandusky police. Walter J. Kapiskosky III, 57, of the 600 block of Birchwood Drive, is facing 15 counts of third-degree felony tampering with records and two counts of theft. It is unclear if the theft charges are misdemeanor or felony counts. He is additionally charged with one count of first-degree felony engaging in a pattern of corrupt behavior. Each count includes a specification for the forfeiture of a vehicle. At the beginning of November, Kapiskosky called Sandusky police to alert them that he had found a vehicle that was stolen from him in Perkins Township. When Sandusky officers, aided by Perkins officers, interviewed the original owner, they claimed to still own the vehicle. Police then launched an investigation into the car's ownership that grew in scope to look into alleged criminal acts by Kapiskosky, according to Sandusky police Chief Jared Oliver. Kapiskosky runs two local towing companies: Walt's and Kap's. Detectives discovered that Kapiskosky was allegedly listing false or inaccurate information on forms sent to the Erie County recorder's office. Kapiskosky was then allegedly able to obtain fraudulent titles for vehicles his companies towed. With titles in hand, Kapiskosky then allegedly sold some of the vehicles, scrapped some of them and was driving one, according to Oliver. More than 25 vehicles were involved in the years-long scheme, Oliver said. During the course of the investigation, the title office was subpoenaed in an attempt to uncover how pervasive the alleged fraudulent scheme was. The investigation culminated in Kapiskosky's arrest on the engaging in a pattern of corrupt behavior charge last week. He was released on a $100,000 bond after his initial appearance in Sandusky Municipal Court. Detectives then presented their case to a session of the Erie County grand jury, which in turn issued an indictment on March 19. Oliver credited the help of Perkins police and the Ohio BMV for their assistance with the investigation. Kapiskosky has not been summoned as of yet, according to court records. It is unclear when his arraignment in common pleas court will occur. If convicted of a first-degree felony, Kapiskosky could face between three and 11 years in prison, in addition to any time from the other charges, if a judge imposes consecutive sentences.