Who’s The Tree Thief Terrorizing Michigan?

Dallas Mitchell Anderson, a 58-year-old man with a troubling criminal history, has been apprehended in Lowell, Michigan, for allegedly scamming homeowners out of their valuable trees.

Posing as a tree removal specialist, Anderson reportedly offered quick cash for trees under the false pretense of selling them to lumber mills.

How the Scam Worked

Authorities say that Anderson was reselling these trees at significantly lower prices than promised, pocketing the difference. In some instances, he simply abandoned the trees after payment, leaving homeowners with unexpected removal costs.

Local law enforcement estimates that Anderson could earn up to $1,000 per tree, depending on its size and species. His targets primarily included elderly or unsuspecting homeowners, exploiting their trust with seemingly generous offers.

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Victims Speak Out

Anderson's arrest followed numerous complaints from homeowners who fell victim to his deceptive practices. Law enforcement is urging anyone who may have been scammed to come forward and report their experiences.

Anderson's Criminal Background

This is not Anderson's first encounter with law enforcement; he has a criminal record that includes convictions for fleeing police and operating under the influence.

His previous business, J.R. Logging, had faced multiple complaints regarding unauthorized tree removals across Allegan, Calhoun, and Kalamazoo counties.

Safety Tips for Homeowners

Authorities advise homeowners to exercise caution when approached by unsolicited tree removal offers.

Verify Credentials: Always check the qualifications and licenses of any contractor.

Get Multiple Quotes: Obtain several estimates before making a decision.

Research Reviews: Look for customer feedback on platforms like the Better Business Bureau.