DMV Investigation Leads to Arrest

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December 11, 2025
For Immediate Release

CONNECTICUT DEPARTMENT OF MOTOR VEHICLES INVESTIGATION LEADS TO ARREST

James G. O’Neil of West Haven Has Been Charged with Several Violations

WETHERSFIELD, CT – On December 4, 2025, James G. O’Neil (D.O.B. 9/9/1978) of West Haven, CT turned himself into authorities at the Connecticut Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) following the issuance of an active arrest warrant.

The DMV’s law enforcement unit, the Commercial Vehicle Safety Division, recently concluded an almost seven-month long investigation into O’Neil, who stands accused of engaging in fraudulent vehicle transactions in connection with stolen vehicles.

The investigation, led by DMV auto theft investigators, involved coordination with law enforcement agencies and motor vehicle departments in multiple states. The investigation uncovered a complex network of illicit activities involving forged documents associated with vehicles owned, traded, and/or sold by O’Neil. This discovery led to the seizure of multiple stolen vehicles. As a result of his actions, O’Neil has been charged with several violations of Connecticut law, including, but not limited to, title fraud, forgery 2nd degree, and larceny of a motor vehicle.

O’Neil was released on a $50,000 non-surety bond and is scheduled to appear in Milford Superior Court on December 18, 2025.

“I would like to applaud the work being carried out by our auto theft personnel. Their collaboration with other law enforcement agencies has been instrumental,” said DMV Commissioner Tony Guerrera. “It is crucial for consumers to remain diligent and to do some research before purchasing a pre-owned vehicle through a private sale to ensure they are making an informed and safe decision.”

O’Neil was previously arrested by the Stratford Police Department on January 8, 2025, for falsifying documents also in connection with vehicle sales.

The investigation remains active and ongoing. DMV encourages anyone with additional information regarding this case to Contact the Connecticut DMV Auto Theft Unit at DMVAutoTheft@ct.gov.

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