WESTBROOK — A Westbrook Police Department investigation into a series of fraudulent vehicle purchases has culminated in the arrest and sentencing of Pierre Rouse, 20, of Portland.
The scheme, which unfolded across various online platforms in early 2023, involved the use of counterfeit checks to buy vehicles.
Westbrook detectives, in an undercover operation in March, apprehended Rouse and a juvenile accomplice after a failed escape attempt that resulted in a foot chase.
One of the suspects was found in possession of a firearm at the time of arrest.
Further investigation and a search warrant executed at a residence led to the discovery of additional evidence and the seizure of a second firearm.
Rouse has been sentenced to 27 months in prison after pleading guilty.
He will also face 3 years of probation and is ordered to pay $24,000 in restitution to those defrauded by the scheme.
The successful resolution of the Westbrook cases has also aided in solving similar crimes in neighboring communities, underscoring the collaborative effort of the officers involved.
The police department’s work has put an end to a fraudulent operation that cost numerous victims substantial financial losses.
