Capitol News

Jason Garza, a 45-year-old resident of Wyandotte, has been ordered to stand trial in Wayne County’s 3rd Circuit Court on ten felony charges. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced the development, stating that Garza waived his preliminary examination and will face allegations of embezzling over $166,000 from Montway Auto Transport, his former employer based in Canton Township.

The charges include one count of embezzlement of more than $100,000 (a felony carrying up to 20 years), one count of embezzlement between $50,000 and $100,000 (up to 15 years), and one count for amounts between $1,000 and $20,000 (up to five years). Additional counts cover using a computer to commit a crime and failing to file income taxes.

Prosecutors allege that during 2021 and 2022, Garza offered unauthorized discounts to customers if they paid him directly through mobile payment apps. It is claimed he kept these payments for himself rather than forwarding them to Montway Auto Transport.

Attorney General Nessel commented at the time of arraignment: “Employees who steal from businesses betray the trust of their employers and their colleagues. My office remains committed to ensuring individuals who engage in embezzlement and fraud are held accountable.”

The FBI referred the case to the Michigan Department of Attorney General. Garza is set for an appearance in court on October 21.

Authorities remind the public that criminal charges are only allegations at this stage. Garza is presumed innocent unless proven guilty. The department does not release booking photographs.