GRESHAM, OR - Police served search warrants at four locations Thursday associated with Auto Link, a car dealership on Southeast Stark street after claims that the business ripped off at least 25 people.

Auto Link has painted over its sign and now the building is for lease.

Customers who consigned their cars through the business said not only have they lost their cars, but they also didn't get the money for them.

Tonight, Ben Meacham is out of a car but not out of the loan to pay for it.

"It's just a bad deal, all around," Meacham said.

He consigned his car to Auto Link in Gresham in May.

Several months later, the car dealership told him it had sold his car, but Meacham didn't receive any money for it.

What he did receive was a letter telling him that Auto Link is bankrupt and has gone out of business.

"It's just a big mess and it's a shame they did this. Seemed like they were a reputable company, but when it comes down to it, they were there for the buck and then pull out," Meacham said.

He isn't alone.

According to Gresham police, there are at least 25 other victims and the department has launched a full investigation into the business, for fraud.

James Leusch also gave his car to Auto Link for consignment.

"I'm pissed!" Leusch said.

He said he later found out that someone had bought his car, but Auto Link kept the money and never paid his lender for it.

"I was chasing them to get them to do whatever and they lied and they lied," Leusch said.

Now, both Meacham and Leusch are working with their insurance companies to try to sort all this out.

In the meantime, they have this message to others.

"I would just say, 'Be cautious with who you're dealing with,'" Meacham said.

Gresham police believe there are more victims out there.

If you're one of them, contact the DMV or the Gresham Police Department.