Keith R. Smith

The owner of Oilology in Cranberry Township had a sixth criminal case filed against him in 26 days related to deceptive business practices.

Keith Randall Smith, 69, of Cranberry Township, was charged Tuesday, Dec. 16, with one felony count each of criminal mischief, deceptive business practices and criminal use of a communication facility; and one misdemeanor count each of theft and receiving stolen property following a Dec. 11 report of fraud.

Police said they were contacted Dec. 11 by a customer of Smith’s who said Smith had failed to repair his Chevrolet Malibu. Police said in February, the customer had his vehicle towed to Oilology with smoke emanating from the engine.

The customer was in contact with Smith from February to August. Police said Smith initially diagnosed the issue as a failed seal between the transmission and motor and said the repair would cost $1,622.94.

The customer paid the bill over the course of three months. Police said Smith made excuses for the work not being completed through April and May, such as more leaks being detected.

Smith contacted the customer on June 2 and said the vehicle had been repaired, and the customer picked it up the next day, according to police.

Police said when the customer picked up his vehicle, the transmission was not working and would not move past first gear. Numerous error codes were also active. The vehicle was then towed back to Oilology and has since not been repaired, police said.

Cranberry Township police filed charges against Smith on Nov. 21, Dec. 2, Dec. 3, and on Dec. 12. Two were filed on Dec. 3. He also has multiple lawsuits against him.

Smith’s preliminary hearing for the Dec. 16 charges has not yet been scheduled. He’s being held in Butler County Prison.