Legal Question in Criminal Law in Michigan

Accused of receiving stolen property

My boyfriend bought a John Deere Backhoe from a man he didn't know very well and had a receipt of sale. He had a man ask him about the backhoe and if he was wanting to sell it.The man who was asking was wanting to trade him for a vehicle and $9000.00 cash. The man is a used car salesman (later discovered). The transaction went legally and we put the vehicle in my name (since my boyfriend wouldm't have had his license back for a month still). The title was transfered into my name and everything was fine. We discovered that the police were asking my boyfriends parents about the backhoe stating that it was stolen. The police later went to my boyfriends brothers house as well and a friend of my boyfriends. All this time we were not made aware of what was going on. Never had a police officer at our home. The dealership had our address and phone number. My boyfriend was out of state working. He called a lawyer no warrant for arrest. the truck was taken by the dealer. We have not been questioned.what should we do? The dealer had the police go with him to my boyfriends brothers house and they took the truck and won't give it back. talked to police and was rude and used foul language with me. I complied and respectful..Anyadvice,my rights?


Asked on 6/01/08, 2:18 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Audra Arndt Audra A. Arndt & Associates, PLLC

Re: Accused of receiving stolen property

Your question is a little confusing, but if you received stolen property, you have to return it, even if you were not aware that it was stolen and even if you paid for it. Start by getting a copy of the police report, which you are entitled to. You should also hire a local criminal lawyer to assist you with the investigation and possible charges, especially if you are going to be out the equipment and the money.

You can also then pursue charges against the person who sold you the stolen property.

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Answered on 6/02/08, 1:33 am


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