SLED charges Richland County man with vehicle fraud

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) is charging a 26-year-old with 3 counts of fraud, says SLED.

Keifer Dewarren Branch is accused of making false statements at the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles (SCDMV) on O’Neil Court.

Investigators say Branch claimed he was the purchaser of a 2020 Mercedes when he filled out the SCDMV application to issue or replace 45-day temporary plate.

At the time of the vehicle’s registration, it was for sale at Sanford Imports in North Carolina.

Also investigators say, the vehicle was purchased by Shayla Gordon using a counterfeit cashier’s check.

Branch is being charged with 3 counts of fraudulent application or misrepresentation of facts in registering a vehicle.

He was booked Alvin S. Glenn Detention Center in Richland County. The case will be prosecuted by the 5th Circuit Solicitor’s Office.

Anyone with information regarding vehicle fraud in South Carolina is asked to send tips to SLED at tips@sled.sc.gov.