Lansing, MI — A Michigan woman says she’s out $300 and has been without her car for nearly two months after striking a deal with a local welder who has failed to return her vehicle or the money.
Amber Rochester, 34, of Eaton Rapids Township, had hoped to get critical repairs done on her 2011 Chevrolet Equinox, which was in need of welding to fix the frame and undercarriage. The repairs were necessary for the car to be roadworthy and safe. On the advice of a friend, Rochester contacted Joshawa Vergason, the owner of Rick’s Portable Welding, who had a reputation for completing welding jobs.
On October 29, Rochester dropped off her car at Vergason’s shop and paid him $300 in cash for the repairs. But since then, she says, she has been unable to get any updates from Vergason. Nearly seven weeks later, her car is still missing, and her attempts to contact him through phone calls and text messages have gone unanswered.
“I want my car back, and I want my money back,” Rochester told 6 News. “It’s been almost two months. I don’t know what else to do. I feel like I’ve been taken advantage of.”
Rochester’s frustration has grown as she waits for any sign of progress on her car. Despite her repeated attempts to reach Vergason, the welder has not returned any of her messages. When contacted by 6 News, Vergason seemed unconcerned about the situation, dismissing the issue and telling the reporter that “all you are going to do is make me more famous.”
“I’m doing her a favor, and she’s going to be happy in the end,” Vergason said, adding that the completion of the work was “none of [the reporter’s] business.”
Vergason’s flippant response to the media has done little to calm Rochester’s growing anxiety. She filed a formal complaint with the Michigan State Police, who have confirmed they are reviewing the situation. While law enforcement has yet to officially charge Vergason, Rochester’s complaint is being examined for potential criminal activity, including theft or fraud.
The 34-year-old woman’s distress is compounded by the fact that Vergason has a criminal history. In 2019, he was the subject of a high-profile, three-week manhunt after he fled from law enforcement officers attempting to arrest him on outstanding warrants. Vergason is currently facing charges of domestic violence and driving with a suspended license. Court records show he is scheduled to appear in Eaton County District Court in January 2024 to answer the charges.
“I just want my car and my money back. I’m not concerned about his past — I just want to move on from this,” Rochester said.
The Michigan State Police have not yet made any arrests in connection with the case but are investigating Vergason’s failure to return the vehicle or provide the agreed-upon service. Authorities confirmed that they are reviewing the possibility of criminal charges against him.
For now, Rochester’s car remains in Vergason’s possession, and she has little recourse but to wait for any sign of resolution. Meanwhile, Vergason’s welding business, Rick’s Portable Welding, continues to operate, with no indication that he plans to fulfill his obligation to Rochester anytime soon.
As the investigation continues, Rochester is left with one pressing question: Where is her car, and when will she see her $300 again?
