Legal Question in Civil Litigation in California

Stolen Rental Car

What is my recourse? I met a man on the internet, the elationship moved much too quickly. Regardless, I not only have given him (via credit card charges and cash) over $4000. I also rented an SUV for a ''move'' he was making. hat was over 30 days ago, I have not heard from him since (other than emails his ''friend'' is sending me, because he is now apparently dying in a hospital)Ireported the truck stolen thru the rental car company and filing a police report. The police were not very encouraging in my having any recovery of funds. Through a series of events, I've talked to one other woman in the N. CA area he recently conned for $3500..WE DO NOT WANT THIS TO HAPPEN TO ANY OTHER WOMEN (though I'm SURE there are many) Suggestions?


Asked on 7/28/02, 9:41 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys
Alvin Tenner Law Office of Alvin G. Tenner

Re: Stolen Rental Car

Since you have notified the rental co. of the car, there is not much more you can do about the car. Be sure to cancel the credit card. Unfortunately, you and this other women will be liable for the credit card bills. You voluntarily gave this man the credit card. Talk to the credit card company, explain the situation and try to work out reasonable repayment plans.

Also, try to have the credit card co. notify you if, when and where he tries to use the credit card.

There is not much you and the other woman can do to stop him with other women, short of getting him arrested.

Sorry, that I could not be of more help, but there is very little that can be done. Even if he is arrested, the chances of recovery of any monies are slim at best.

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Answered on 7/28/02, 9:50 pm
Robert Miller Robert L. Miller & Associates, A Law Corporation

Re: Stolen Rental Car

What is your recourse? Well, your first step to protect this from happening in the future is to tell the police, so if he is found he can be charged, but it sounds as though you've done that already. Aside from that, you can sue him and freeze his assets through a writ of attachment or even a restraining order, but that might be difficult to do based upon the shady and mobile nature of this individual. Those are your options, as I see them.

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Answered on 7/28/02, 10:06 pm


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