Two Louisville notaries face felony charges after alleged attempt to sell 71 fraudulent Kentucky temporary tags

Arrests follow undercover purchase arranged through social media

Two Louisville residents who are commissioned notaries public were arrested Jan. 31, 2026, after an investigation into the alleged sale of fraudulent Kentucky temporary vehicle registration tags through Facebook Marketplace. The Bancroft Police Department said the case began with information that temporary tags were being offered for sale online.

Joann Smith, 30, and DeAngelo Thomas, 33, were each charged with 71 counts of complicity to steal, produce, copy, or illegally acquire temporary tags. Thomas also faces additional charges of official misconduct and perjury.

What investigators allege happened

Investigators allege Smith posted in a Facebook Marketplace group offering temporary tags and included a photograph showing a stack of tags. Court records state that after an informant contacted Smith to express interest, Smith identified herself as a notary public in Jefferson County.

According to the citation, Smith agreed to sell two temporary tags and notarize a Kentucky vehicle title for $100. Investigators allege that in a later phone conversation Smith said she could provide as many tags as requested.

Police said Smith arrived at a prearranged meeting location with Thomas, who was driving. Investigators allege Smith then sold the informant 10 fraudulent temporary tags and notarized a Kentucky title for $297.

Search allegedly uncovered 61 additional tags

After the transaction, police alleged Thomas possessed an additional 61 fraudulent, copied temporary tags, bringing the total to 71. Court documents describe multiple tags being located in a plastic sheet that investigators said matched the tags shown in the photograph posted online.

Thomas was taken into custody and advised of his rights. Police allege he told investigators the tags were “trash” that had been given to him and that the sale was the first time any had been sold.

Why temporary tags and notarizations matter in vehicle paperwork

Kentucky temporary tags are used to legally operate a vehicle for a limited period while required title and registration documentation is being completed. Under Kentucky law, temporary tags are issued under specific processes involving county clerks and licensed motor vehicle dealers, with required information recorded on the tag and related documentation maintained.

Investigators also alleged improper notarization activity tied to the transaction. Thomas is accused of notarizing the seller’s portion of a vehicle title without the seller being present.

Next steps in court

Smith and Thomas were granted pre-arraignment release on Feb. 1, 2026. Both are scheduled to appear for arraignment on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026, in Jefferson County court.

• Defendants: Joann Smith, 30; DeAngelo Thomas, 33
• Date of arrest: Jan. 31, 2026
• Core allegation: attempted sale and possession of 71 fraudulent Kentucky temporary tags
• Scheduled court date: Feb. 4, 2026 (arraignment)

Charges are allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.