Project Description
Synopsis of Events
Clients: Kevin & Robert
Location: Kia of Bedford, Bedford, Ohio
Date: May 5, 2026
Police Report: 2026108463
Background
Kevin and Robert are co‑owners of a 2024 Kia Forte. Both names appear on the legal title. Kevin did not sign any document authorizing the sale or transfer of his ownership interest. Robert also purchased/financed a Kia Sorento through the same dealership.
Events on May 5, 2026
At approximately 3:15 PM on May 5, 2026, Kevin and Robert went to Kia of Bedford to request legally required paperwork related to:
The sale/transfer of the 2024 Kia Forte
A full cost and finance breakdown for Robert Kia Sorento
They initially dealt with dealership staff who repeatedly refused to provide the requested documents. Hours passed with no resolution.
As concerns increased, they requested assistance from dealership management. During this time, employees made statements indicating the Forte had already been sold, despite Kevin never signing any authorization. This raised immediate concerns of title fraud and unlawful conversion.
Escalation and Assault
Eventually, Finance Manager Stephone Walker was brought into the discussion. Kevin began recording the interaction openly. No dealership employee objected to the recording.
During the interaction, Mr. Walker became increasingly hostile and aggressive. The situation escalated suddenly when Mr. Walker:
Struck Kevin hand
Forcibly took Kevin iPhone
Stopped the recording
Threw the phone to the ground, damaging it
This assault occurred inside the dealership and was witnessed by management, including the Finance Director, who verbally reprimanded Mr. Walker, stating words to the effect of: “Why did you do that?” and “You shouldn’t have done that.”
Fearing additional violence, Kevin and Robert fled the building. Mr. Walker continued to pursue them outside the dealership until law enforcement was contacted. A police report was filed.
Post‑Incident Harassment and Threats
After the assault, Kevin and Robert received multiple harassing and threatening phone calls from another dealership employee who identified himself as an assistant manager. During these calls, the employee stated:
Kevin signature was “not required” to sell the Forte
The dealership had already sold the vehicle
Derogatory name‑calling and threatening statements implying retaliation
Additionally, dealership staff stated or implied they could track the vehicle using Kia Connect or internal systems, causing serious safety concerns.
Current Impact
Due to:
The physical assault
Ongoing harassment and threats
Statements regarding vehicle tracking
Both clients now fear for their physical safety. Robert is afraid to drive or service the vehicle. The clients no longer feel safe entering Kia of Bedford or conducting business with the dealership.
Legal Issues Identified
Assault and battery
Theft and destruction of personal property
Title fraud / unlawful conversion (Ohio Rev. Code § 4505.19)
Menacing by stalking / unlawful tracking
Consumer Sales Practices Act violations
Current Status
Police report filed
Formal complaints submitted to Kia America and corporate entities
Demand for rescission, records disclosure, and cessation of contact made
Clients seek legal representation to protect their safety and property interests