Dallas Police Issue Warrants for Auto Dealer

Authorities are pursuing theft and assault charges against the owner of 101 Financial, LLC following dozens of customer complaints.

Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Buying/Selling

Bold flat-color editorial illustration featuring a single metal vehicle key, symbolizing legal scrutiny over auto industry financial practices. — Dallas police have issued felony warrants for Rafat Abu Alfilat, owner of 101 Financial, following investigations into illegal vehicle repossession practices. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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In April 2025, Dallas police issued felony theft and aggravated assault warrants for Rafat Abu Alfilat, the owner of the dealership 101 Financial, LLC. The warrants stem from investigations into patterns of allegedly illegal vehicle repossessions.

Why it matters

The investigation highlights ongoing risks in private, in-house financing agreements where dealers retain vehicle titles until final payments are made. The Dallas County District Attorney's Office is currently reviewing the evidence for potential prosecution.

The Texas Department of Motor Vehicles has recorded over 27 customer complaints against the dealership. Total losses tied to the alleged theft scheme are estimated at $206,941.75.

The players

Rafat Abu Alfilat

He is the owner of 101 Financial, LLC and the subject of felony warrants issued by Dallas police.

101 Financial, LLC

This Dallas-based dealership offers in-house financing and remains open with an active business license.

Dallas County District Attorney's Office

This agency is currently reviewing evidence related to the dealership for potential criminal prosecution.

Texas Department of Motor Vehicles

This state agency regulates motor vehicle sales and maintains records of consumer complaints against licensed dealers.

The details

The police investigation identified a recurring issue involving 101 Financial, LLC, which operates with in-house financing that allows the dealer to control repossession terms. One reported case involves a 2019 Tesla valued at $18,200, for which a local family had already provided a $5,000 down payment.

March 2025: A local family purchased a 2019 Tesla from 101 Financial, LLC.
April 2025: Dallas police issued felony theft and aggravated assault warrants for the owner.
October 2026: Official criminal case status was confirmed through reports.

Roadmap

This case underscores the persistent friction between independent dealerships offering subprime in-house financing and state-level regulatory oversight. It highlights a broader shift toward tighter scrutiny of how non-traditional lenders manage repossessions in the used car market.

Prospective buyers utilizing in-house financing should be aware that dealers often retain legal title to the vehicle until the final payment is cleared. Always verify a dealer's complaint history with state regulators before finalizing a down payment to avoid potential repossession disputes.

The takeaway

Consumers should carefully read all financing contracts to understand who holds the title and the specific conditions that trigger a repossession. Keeping detailed records of every payment can provide essential protection if a dealer disputes the status of your purchase.