Given that safety devices serve as the last line of defense for human lives, this case extends beyond simple illegal distribution and poses a serious threat to life. A man in his 30s from New Baltimore, Michigan, has been charged with selling counterfeit airbag parts on eBay. Reports indicate that most airbags fail to work correctly in accidents, causing widespread alarm.
Authorities confirmed that this man made approximately $600,000 by distributing counterfeit supplemental restraint systems (SRS). He now faces nine felony charges and could receive a maximum sentence of 43 years. What’s troubling is that the parts he sold are likely installed in approximately 81,000 vehicles in Michigan.
Non-Functioning Airbags Already Endangering Lives
This case came to light when authorities caught 31-year-old Dinas Kamaitis selling counterfeit vehicle parts through an online auction site. Alarmingly, over 80% of the airbags sold do not function properly in collisions, raising concerns that vehicle buyers are unknowingly exposed to severe, life-threatening risks.
Kamaitis faces nine felony charges, including one for computer crimes, four for possession and distribution of counterfeit identification items, and four for selling counterfeit safety devices. If convicted, he could face up to 43 years in prison. Authorities have already seized all proceeds from his bank account and are continuing to investigate the scale of the operation and the potential for organized distribution.
The problem extends beyond just illegal sales; these counterfeit products could already be installed in vehicles currently on the road. The Michigan Department of Justice estimates that these faulty airbags are installed in approximately 81,000 vehicles, warning that many drivers remain unaware of the grave dangers.
Public Outrage Over Profit from Human Lives
As news of the incident spread, social media users voiced outrage. Many highlighted how difficult it is for ordinary consumers to identify counterfeit parts, stressing the need for stronger post-sale inspection systems.
Experts are also treating the case with urgency. The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) advises that if a vehicle’s airbag warning light stays on or acts abnormally, it may indicate counterfeit parts. They recommend regular diagnostic checks at certified repair shops.
This incident reveals a widespread issue beyond simple fraud. The counterfeit auto parts market, known for higher profit margins than genuine parts, has been identified as potentially more lucrative than drug trafficking. Michigan authorities have announced a comprehensive investigation into the entire auto parts distribution network and plan to impose strict penalties.
This case serves as a wake-up call for U.S. regulators, drivers, the global automotive industry, and consumers.
One Response
then they NEED to get these CARS off the road and fixed A.S.A.P.