When Justice Fails: How a Convicted Scammer Keeps Stealing
Nothing is more fundamental to the rule of law than the public’s collective trust in the system. We rely on law enforcement and the courts to ensure that those who cheat, steal, and deceive are held accountable. But what happens when the system repeatedly fails to stop a known criminal?
Enter Curena Stones, a repeat fraudster who has been scamming innocent buyers out of tens of thousands of dollars by selling cars she never delivers. Despite multiple arrests, convictions, and court-ordered restitution, Stones has somehow managed to stay out of serious trouble. Her story exposes alarming flaws in the justice system—flaws that allow professional scammers to continue victimizing people with little consequence.
A Familiar Scam, A Familiar Face
In an all-too-common scheme, Curena Stones has made a career out of online auto fraud. She lures in victims with car listings, collects their money, and never hands over the vehicle. In one documented case, she stole nearly $7,000 from Brenda Roberts, a woman who trusted that Stones was a legitimate seller.
For that crime, Stones was sentenced to 10 years in prison—but there was a catch. The court offered her probation if she repaid Brenda the money she owed. Stones promised to do so. But, like the cars she sold, that promise never materialized. She never paid Brenda back.
She continued her deception for years, scamming at least five other victims out of tens of thousands of dollars. Despite being caught, arrested, and facing mounting legal troubles, the courts repeatedly let her slide by, either reducing her sentences or failing to enforce restitution orders.
A Legal System That Looks the Other Way
Curena Stones’ case isn’t just about a con artist—it’s about a justice system that repeatedly fails to protect consumers.
Her eventual arrest on an unrelated traffic stop set off a chain of events that should have finally led to real consequences. Investigators uncovered evidence of at least five victims who had paid her large sums for cars they never received. With so much evidence stacked against her, one would assume that justice was finally catching up.
But that’s not what happened.
Instead of serving the 20 years her cumulative crimes warranted, the court inexplicably rolled all of her offenses into a single 8-month sentence. By May 2020, she was free—back on the streets and, according to her Facebook page, already back to selling cars.
Victims were left in disbelief. One, who lost thousands to Stones, voiced the frustration so many feel when the system fails them:
She needs to go to prison and sit there and think about everyone that she’s ripped off.
It’s hard to argue with that sentiment.
The Late-Breaking Twist: Is Justice Finally Catching Up?
For once, it seems there may be a turn in the right direction. A judge who previously granted Stones leniency discovered that, yet again, she had failed to pay restitution. This time, he issued a new arrest warrant.
Cases like this highlight an urgent problem: Why are habitual scammers allowed to continue preying on consumers? Stones is far from the only con artist exploiting legal loopholes, but her story is a striking example of what happens when fraudsters learn that the consequences for their crimes are little more than a slap on the wrist.
How to Protect Yourself from Online Auto Scams
Sadly, con artists like Curena Stones are everywhere. But you can take steps to protect yourself from online auto scams:
- Verify the seller’s identity – Avoid sellers who refuse to meet in person or provide proper documentation.
- Never pay upfront without proof – Be wary of sellers demanding full payment before you even see the car.
- Check vehicle history reports – Services like Carfax or AutoCheck can help you verify the legitimacy of a vehicle.
- Use secure payment methods – Avoid wire transfers, Venmo, or PayPal when purchasing vehicles from private sellers.
- Trust your instincts – If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
If you’ve been scammed or suspect fraud, report it immediately to local law enforcement, the Better Business Bureau, and your state’s Attorney General’s office. Taking action can prevent scammers like Curena Stones from continuing to victimize others.
Final Thoughts
Curena Stones is just one of many fraudsters who manipulate the legal system to avoid real punishment. The question is: How many more victims have to be scammed before real action is taken?
While the legal process slowly churns forward, consumers must remain vigilant. By educating yourself, reporting suspicious activity, and using reputable sources for big purchases, you can minimize your risk of falling victim to scammers like her.
Let’s hope that this time, the system finally delivers the justice her victims deserve.