A Holland resident, Shaun Michael Brown, 48, was arraigned in the 58th District Court in Hudsonville on Friday on seven felony charges. The Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel announced that Brown faces one count of False Pretenses involving an amount between $50,000 and $100,000, a felony punishable by up to 15 years in prison. He also faces six counts related to failing to file or filing false tax returns, each carrying a maximum penalty of five years.
Brown is accused of defrauding a victim by selling a 2021 Corvette for $95,000 without providing a valid title. Authorities allege he failed to pay income or sales taxes from 2020 through 2022 on the proceeds from this sale as well as more than $1.1 million earned from unlicensed marijuana sales.
The Ottawa County Sheriff’s Department referred the case to the Attorney General’s Office and assisted with the investigation alongside the Michigan State Police’s Marijuana and Tobacco Investigation Section.
“Sales tax revenue supports our schools, our roads, and services our communities depend on,” Nessel said. “I would like to thank the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Department and the Michigan State Police for their diligent work in investigating this matter. My office will continue to enforce Michigan’s tax laws and protect residents from fraud.”
Cannabis Regulatory Agency Executive Director Brian Hanna stated: “These charges reflect the steadfast resolve of our law enforcement partners and the Attorney General’s office to uphold Michigan’s regulated cannabis system, and we appreciate their unwavering work in bringing this case forward. Cases like this demonstrate exactly why a strong, transparent regulatory framework matters – and why those who choose to operate outside it will be held accountable.”
A probable cause conference is scheduled for December 4, 2025 at 2 p.m., followed by a preliminary examination set for December 18, 2025 at 10:30 a.m., both before Judge Judith Mulder in Ottawa County’s 58th District Court.
Authorities remind that criminal charges are allegations; defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
