Expert: Robin Sexton - 6/2/2008

Question
I reported my stolen horse (value $20,000.00) to the county sheriff's office. They claim it is civil in nature rather than criminal.
I have never met this person before he notified me he had possession of my property. He admits to having it and refuses to return it.
I do not understand how a clear cut case of theft can be classified as civil. I plan on suing him civilly, but think he should be behind bars as well.
This system is crazy. It protects the criminals.

Answer
Lisa,

Having horses i do understand how you feel.  However without a lot more information and details of the incident I can't give much of an explanation.  One option is to get your facts and records together.  Loose the emotions and make an appointment with the local prosecutors office and explain it to them.  Normally the issues between civil and criminal are the aspects of a one on one agreement, contract or some other factor that indicates that it is a contractual agreement between parties.  However just because there is a contract does not mean it is not a crime. There could be fraud involved.

Good Luck

Robin