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- calendar_today October 25, 2026
Two Clare County Residents Accused of $2 Million Equipment Fraud
Authorities allege that a pair from Lake, Clare County, targeted a Mid-Michigan excavation company in a complex fraud scheme involving company identity. The Michigan Attorney General’s Office reports that 44 pieces of equipment worth nearly $2 million were involved in the case.
Details of the Alleged Scheme
According to investigators, Gregory Hite and Bridget Bureau, both 41, are accused of using the excavation company’s identity to secure financing for substantial equipment purchases. They allegedly resold the equipment without holding good title, a tactic officials say significantly increases the impact of the financial crime committed.
Breakdown of Charges
Hite faces multiple charges from the Attorney General’s Office, including conducting a criminal enterprise, three counts of identity theft, five counts of filing a false tax return, using a computer to commit a crime, and two counts of false pretenses. The false pretenses charges are linked to amounts of $100,000 or more, and $50,000 or more but less than $100,000.
Bureau’s charges include conducting a criminal enterprise, three counts of identity theft, and six counts related to failing to file or filing false tax returns, spanning 2019 to 2024. Both individuals are accused of participating in the illegal resale of equipment acquired through fraudulent means.
Potential Penalties
The most severe charges carry possible penalties of up to 20 years in prison. Hite’s charge of using a computer to commit a crime could result in a 10-year sentence. Charges of identity theft and tax-related offenses carry potential sentences of up to five years each, reflecting the serious nature of the alleged criminal enterprise and financial fraud.
State and Local Investigation Efforts
Attorney General Dana Nessel credited the cooperation between the Clare County Sheriff’s Department and the Michigan Department of Treasury for advancing the investigation. “Identity thieves can target anyone, including businesses, for their own personal financial gain,” Nessel said, reaffirming the state’s commitment to pursuing those who steal from Michigan residents and businesses.
Ongoing Court Proceedings
The Clare County case is set to continue in Circuit Court following a recent preliminary examination. Further legal proceedings will determine the next steps in addressing the alleged misuse of company identity, equipment financing, and tax fraud.
Source: manisteenews.com.
