Michigan Department of State Employee Charged With 11 Felonies, Including Identity Theft, After Joint Investigation with Michigan State Police

LANSING, Mich. – Secretary of State Ruth Johnson today announced that a six-year employee of the Michigan Department of State was charged with 11 felonies, including identity theft.

“The vast majority of our employees are hardworking and honest, so when one person tries to cheat the system putting people at risk for their own gain, we take decisive action,” Johnson said. “I’m particularly grateful to the Michigan State Police for their partnership in this investigation.”

Lisa Brown-Quinn, 38, was suspended from her job at a Westland branch office during the investigation. She was arraigned today in the 18th District Court in Westland with:

• One count of using computers to commit a crime
• Two counts of conspiracy to commit identity theft
• Two counts of conspiracy to commit motor vehicle code offenses
• Three counts of identity theft
• Three counts of falsifying applications for a driver’s license

The charges come after Johnson’s Office of Investigative Services learned that an employee was alleged to have assisted a customer in obtaining a driver’s license in someone else’s name.

The investigation was referred to the Michigan State Police who built a case and worked with the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office to bring charges. A probable cause hearing is scheduled for Nov. 17 with a preliminary exam scheduled for Nov. 22. Bond was set at $5,000.

Since 2011, Johnson has made consumer protection a top priority, launching the Office of Investigative Services in 2014 to inspect and regulate automotive-related businesses, and investigate potential fraud involving Department of State programs. Just last week, one of its investigations led to charges against a salvage vehicle inspector accused of pocketing $170,100 in vehicle fees and forging documentation needed to qualify a vehicle for a Michigan rebuilt salvage title. The office has heightened the department’s protection of the public with the closing of 30 unlicensed or shady repair facilities and 18 dishonest car dealers. In addition, cooperative efforts between OIS and Michigan law enforcement over the past 10 months have led to 113 investigations being turned over to law enforcement for criminal review and potential prosecution.

Residents may contact the OIS to report suspected fraud involving the Michigan Department of State at 517-335-0991.