Dangerous Jeep Test Drive in Ohio
Test drives are an integral part of the car buying process, but they can be a bit awkward when a salesperson accompanies the buyer. For one female dealership employee, awkwardness turned out to be the least of her problems, as a routine drive turned into a kidnapping.
Beginning of the Incident
According to reports, Todd Marrs visited the Performance Luxury Sport dealership and requested a test drive of a Jeep Wrangler. Although the dealership specializes in premium brands, the request was accommodated. A female sales manager accompanied him on the drive.
The situation changed dramatically when Marrs reportedly deviated from the usual route and stopped at a warehouse parking lot for about five minutes. When the saleswoman ordered him to return to the dealership, the man allegedly sharply replied:
“No, you’re going to sit here and wait now, like a good girl.”
Escalation of the Situation
These words undoubtedly served as an alarm signal. The employee informed her colleagues about the situation and shared her geolocation with them. When she tried to call the dealership, Marrs allegedly snatched her phone and smashed it on the floor.
After this, the situation took an even stranger turn: the man reportedly decided to run several personal errands, including visiting a nearby hospital to pick up a friend.
Conclusion and Legal Consequences
Ultimately, Marrs returned to the dealership with the saleswoman and his friend. Following the incident, the man was criminally charged with kidnapping and obstructing official business. The Joslyn Law Firm reports that kidnapping, classified as a third-degree felony, can be punishable by up to five years in prison and a fine of up to $10,000. If the crime is classified as a second-degree felony, the punishment could reach eight years in prison and a $15,000 fine.
This case serves as a reminder of the importance of safety during work duties, especially when it involves personal contact with unfamiliar clients. Many car dealerships are reviewing their safety protocols for employees who accompany clients on test drives. Some are implementing buddy systems, GPS tracking, or even mandatory route notifications before departure. The incident also raises questions about psychological support for affected employees who find themselves in such stressful situations.