The former business manager of a Moorhead car dealership is accused in Clay County District Court of setting fire to the dealership's offices to cover up the theft of more than $74,000.
Jeremy Jack Brinkman, 29, 3201 20th St. S., Fargo, faces one count of first-degree arson and three counts of theft by swindle stemming from the July 16 fire at Suzuki of Fargo-Moorhead - The Big Lot.
According to court documents:
Investigators looking into the fire became suspicious of Brinkman after workers at the dealership said Brinkman had handled a number of cash transactions for which there were no records. The workers also told police Brinkman appeared to be living above his means.
Brinkman told investigators he had no money problems, but police later discovered judgments against him for utilities, rent and bad checks.
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When pressed about the fire and the dealership's missing money, Brinkman told police, "I did it" and explained how he poured gasoline in five offices and started them on fire, according to the court complaint.
The complaint said Brinkman admitted to stealing $74,975 from the dealership through undocumented cash sales of 23 vehicles.
Brinkman was arrested Wednesday in Cass County, where police said he will be held pending extradition to Minnesota.
Readers can reach Forum reporter Dave Olson at (701) 241-5555
