Wayne County man charged with stealing backhoe, other rental equipment from Home Depot and selling it online

(WWJ) — A Wayne County man is facing multiple felonies for allegedly stealing rental equipment from Home Depot stores across Metro Detroit and selling it online.

Jonathan Allen of Ecorse was arraigned Tuesday on one count of conducting a criminal enterprise and three counts of false pretenses, $20,000 or more but less than $50,000, Attorney General Dana Nessel announced Wednesday.

The 33-year-old allegedly sold multiple pieces of heavy equipment — including a backhoe, an excavator and a lift — to a Harrison Township man in June and July of 2023.

He advertised the equipment on Facebook Marketplace and explained that it belonged to a relative who had recently died, according to the AG’s office.

Allen allegedly rented the heavy equipment from Home Depot stores in Taylor, Utica and Farmington Hills, but never returned it. In total, the stolen equipment was valued at more than $70,000.

The AG’s office says he sold it for $23,000.

“This scheme not only victimized the individual who was conned out of thousands of dollars but also disrupted business operations at several Home Depot locations and impacted countless customers who rely on these tools for their projects,” Nessel said.

If convicted of the criminal enterprise charge, Allen could spend up to 20 years in prison. His next court date is scheduled for Aug. 19.

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