What should a dealer do if they suspect a vehicle is stolen property?

When a dealer suspects that a vehicle is stolen property, the appropriate action is to report it immediately to law enforcement and refrain from selling it. This is crucial for several reasons.

First, reporting the suspicion helps to ensure that law enforcement can investigate the situation properly. If the vehicle is indeed confirmed as stolen, the dealer is fulfilling their legal and ethical obligation to assist in the recovery of the vehicle and the potential prosecution of the individual responsible for the theft.

Additionally, selling a vehicle that is suspected to be stolen can lead to serious legal repercussions for the dealer. If the vehicle turns out to be stolen, the dealer could face charges of trafficking in stolen goods or other criminal implications. It could also harm the dealer's reputation and business practices if it is found that they knowingly sold stolen property.

By refraining from selling the suspected stolen vehicle, the dealer protects themselves legally and avoids potential civil liability claims from the rightful owner of the vehicle. This proactive approach aligns with best practices in the field of motor vehicle sales and demonstrates a commitment to ethical business conduct.