Sonoma auto shop owner sentenced for stealing $350K from customers

Suede Lee Barganski, a 57-year-old former car restoration shop owner in Santa Rosa, was sentenced to nine years and eight months in prison for defrauding over 22 customers, resulting in losses exceeding $350,000. His illegal activities included failing to perform promised work after receiving payments, which often left victims unaware for months or even years. Many of these victims were elderly and particularly vulnerable, with some having passed away before receiving justice. Barganski's fraudulent practices extended to forging vehicle titles and selling cars without the owners' consent. Victims later discovered their vehicles abandoned, stripped of parts, and left in fields. The case against him began in 2020, but he evaded authorities by fleeing to Idaho, where he allegedly committed similar crimes. He was eventually apprehended in Texas in October 2022 and returned to California to face charges. The Sonoma County District Attorney's Office emphasized the need for accountability, highlighting the trust Barganski exploited over a decade. His actions not only caused financial harm but also emotional distress to his victims, many of whom sought his services due to his reputation as a classic car mechanic. The court has ordered him to pay full restitution to the victims once he completes his prison sentence. This case serves as a reminder of the importance of consumer protection and the consequences of exploiting vulnerable individuals. The District Attorney expressed hope for justice and restitution for the victims affected by Barganski's deceitful actions.