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Criminal Law/theft by a friend?

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Expert: - 8/10/2007


Question
Is this a theft and can we file charges?

A friend of ours asked to borrow a set of our tires (worth $300) temporarily.
He kept them for quite a while and we just found out he sold his truck with
them on it. He told a another friend that he "knew he shouldn't, but was really
in a tough spot and needed the money".

We're shocked.

We probably won't pursue this, but we're curious, is this a theft and could we
file charges?

Thanks,
Tess
Washington State

Answer
Tess,

  You haven't mentioned anything about calling the police.  I am going to have to presume that you haven't done that and I wondering why you haven't?  The police will know the law in your state, will be able to advise you on what to do, and arrest the "friend" if he has in fact violated Washington state law.

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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.

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