Criminal Law/Theft

Advertisement

Expert: - 8/5/2009


Question
My husband and I bought a camper , the guy told us that he had the title to it , but come to find out he didn't own the camper someone else did ,the guy took the money that we gave him and never came up with the title , now we are having to pay the original owner . he is letting us pay him for the camper rather then taken it  . but what can we do about the other guy on this .We are hoping that there is some way that we can get our money back for the one who sold it to us in the first place .Question is what can I do if anything?

Answer
Jeannette,

 The laws in every state are different but if the first guy knowingly sold you the camper without being the rightful owner then I would think that he might be committing a crime.  I know that in MY state he would be.

  I don't see where the police are involved.  I'd suggest that you call the police and determine if this is a criminal matter or a civil matter (where you would have to sue the first guy).

Criminal Law

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Jack Toomey

Expertise

Please do not ask me about potential jail sentences that you, your friends, or family might receive in court. There is no way for me to know that. Only a judge could answer a question like that. I am also NOT a probation officer or parole officer so I cannot answer questions that relate to parole or probation. Also please keep in mind that every state has different laws. If you are planning to ask a question about a specific law or criminal charge that pertains to your state only it could be difficult to answer. I also cannot give you legal advice on what to do or what not to do in court. Retired police officer with 26 years experience. Worked in the patrol division as well as over 14 years in the detective bureau. Investigated a wide range of crime such as murder, rape, robbery, theft, fraud, missing persons, and other very sensitive crimes. I am available to answer your questions about criminal law and especially as it applies to police work. I taught at the police academy for several years and am especially knowledgeable about search and seizure. Any question about criminal law is welcome! Please don't ask me to do your homework or ask me questions that obviously come from your teachers or professors. I also do not do online interviews or surveys. Young people need to gain face to face interviewing skills. Local police officers usually are very agreeable to assist in these assignments.

Experience

I am a retired police officer with 26 years experience. I investigated almost every type of crime including murder, rape, theft, missing persons, fraud, and domestic abuse. I am very knowledgeable about search and seizure and taught at the police academy for several years on a variety of subjects. I can answer questions that a lot of attorneys cannot since they do not have "street experience".

Education/Credentials
Bachelor of Science degree in Criminolgy from the University of Maryland.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.