Police: Man stole cars to impress son

GREEN BAY - Police say a 44-year-old man told investigators he stole more than dozen cars from dealerships and auto detailing shops to gain the respect of his meth-addicted son.

According to court documents, Keith Dart, 44, of Pound said he committed the thefts out of desperation to impress his 16-year-old son, whom  Dart said is addicted to methamphetamine, admires people who live the "thug life," and would no longer talk to his father. He said he created an alter ego for himself that committed crimes so his son would start talking to him again.

Dart, 44, of Pound, and his brother, Kristopher Dart, 32, of De Pere, made initial appearances in Brown County Circuit Court Friday. They were arrested Wednesday in a hotel room in Bellevue where officers found drug paraphernalia, marijuana and methamphetamine.

The Brown County District Attorney's Office filed a probable cause statement Friday in support of the charges. A criminal complaint including specific charges is expected to be filed next week.

Prosecutors allege the Darts stole cars from dealership and repair shop lots  in Green Bay, Ashwaubenon and Howard. Some belonged to the dealerships. Others belonged to individuals who dropped them off for repairs.

The probable cause statement indicates Kristopher Dart drove Keith Dart to areas where the thefts occurred and pick him up later.

Authorities estimate the Darts stole at least 13 vehicles worth $250,000 and said more vehicles could be added to the complaint since they discovered several unidentified car keys in the brothers' possession.

The Darts drove investigators around the Green Bay area to show them where the vehicles had been left. One vehicle, a silver, 2013 Ford F-250 with a lift kit, big wheels and brush guard has not been found yet.

Keith Dart is expected to be charged with multiple counts of auto theft.

Kristopher Dart faces charges for drug possession and driving while his license is revoked.

The men remain in custody on $5,000 cash bonds. Their next hearing is Oct. 7.

jbollier@gannett.com and follow him on Twitter @GBstreetwise.