Criminal charges against Logansport Batmobile maker have been dropped
Sep. 27—Criminal charges against Mark Racop filed in San Mateo County, California, have been dropped, according to ABC7 News in San Francisco. District Attorney Steve Wagstaffe decided to drop criminal charges against Racop, the owner of Fiberglass Freaks who produces replica Batmobiles.
Racop was charged with obtaining money, labor or property by false pretenses and diversion of construction funds after San Mateo County sheriff's deputies traveled from California to Indiana to conduct a raid on his business on July 19.
The case was originally called into question after a report by ABC7 News alleged that San Mateo Sheriff Carlos Bolanos carried out the raid as a favor to his friend Sam Anagnostou. Anagnostou ordered a custom Batmobile from Racop in 2017 but missed a payment and was told his car would be delayed.
"It simply does not rise to the level of proof beyond a reasonable doubt," Wagstaffe said to ABC7 News. "And when you have cases like that, that aren't rising to the criminal level, but who's right, who's wrong isn't clear. That's when people sue each other. And we refer those cases to civil court."
Racop was supposed to be physically present in San Mateo County Superior Court several times for arraignment, or the reading of charges and entry of a plea. The latest date was Sept. 30. However, San Mateo County Superior Court Judge Sean Dabel granted continuances.
Wagstaffe told the Pharos-Tribune in August he was evaluating whether there is evidence that Racop committed fraud against Anagnostou.
"What I'm really looking for is to see if the evidence would show that Mr. Racop promised him something and didn't deliver it. It pretty much boils down to that," Wagstaffe said. "I want to see what their communications were and what their emails were. Mr. Anagnostou's lawyer went and met with Mr. Racop. I want to hear what those communications were about. What were those discussions? Is this a civil dispute, or was he really defrauded? That's what I want to know."
Racop could still face a lawsuit in civil court. His bank accounts were frozen in August and he finally gained access to them last week. He told the Pharos-Tribune in August he was exhausted but incredibly thankful for all the support, prayers and kindness from the community. The latest fundraiser was held Sept. 23 at the State Theatre.
