Auto theft detectives arrest man for defrauding buyers

On Sept. 22, Hays County Sheriff ’s Office auto theft detectives and patrol deputies arrested Joseph Browning, 49, of unincorporated Kyle following a yearlong joint investigation, led by the Texas Department of Public Safety, CID Special Investigations Section - Austin.

Browning was under investigation for fraudulent sales and purchases of motor vehicles over a period spanning several years. Browning’s license to operate a motor vehicle dealership has been previously revoked, but investigators found Browning continued conducting business primarily through social media platforms such as Facebook Marketplace.

Browning was arrested while leaving his auto repair business on Rohde Road in unincorporated Kyle.

The arrest followed indictments issued Sept. 10 by a Hays County Grand Jury. Browning faces the following charges:

• Forgery of a Governmental Instrument, a thirddegree felony (5 counts)

• Forgery of a Financial Instrument, a state-jail felony (3 counts)

• Theft $300,000 or More, a first-degree felony

• Theft $30,000 to $150,000, a third-degree felony

• Injury to a Child Reckless Bodily Injury, a state-jail felony

• Injury to a Child Intentional Bodily Injury, a third-degree felony Browning remains in custody at the Hays County Jail, on a total bond of $1,023,000 for these charges and an additional case. This investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges may be filed.

Hays County residents who believe they have been a victim in a similar incident, particularly who have experienced titling issues following a motor vehicle purchase are encouraged to make a report and request that report be forwarded to the Auto Theft Unit. Anonymous reports and tips may also be submitted to Crime Stoppers by calling (800) 324-8477 from anywhere in the U.S. or online at www.P3tips.com.