I’m being charged with theft for taking back a set of tires I lent to my cousin. I have written documentation for the loan. My cousin’s mother threatened to call the police and claim I stole the truck it was on unless I returned the tires, which she planned to pawn for drug money. Knowing my tires were still on the truck, I removed them while leaving the truck undamaged. The police contacted me, and even after I proved ownership with receipts, I was told I could be charged with theft unless I return the tires. They claim due to being on her vehicle, she is now the owner. This makes no sense to me. Can I keep my tires without facing charges?
As a criminal defense attorney, I think the police are frustrated with the situation and may simply forward the case to the prosecutor. If documented properly, it won’t hold up at trial. Your best next step is to consult with an attorney in your state.
@Jonah
What does contacting an attorney look like? Is it just a phone call and a fee for consultation? Is it worth it for a case like this?
Brady said:
@Jonah
What does contacting an attorney look like? Is it just a phone call and a fee for consultation? Is it worth it for a case like this?
Find an attorney who offers free consultations. Discuss your case, and if it ends up in court, you can retain them then.
Brady said:
@Jonah
What does contacting an attorney look like? Is it just a phone call and a fee for consultation? Is it worth it for a case like this?
Usually, you call and give a brief overview. They typically provide about 10 minutes of initial advice for free.
Brady said:
@Jonah
What does contacting an attorney look like? Is it just a phone call and a fee for consultation? Is it worth it for a case like this?
You typically reach out with details, and they’ll ask further questions to see if they can assist you. If they take the case, you sign a contract.
@Dez
Thanks for the clarity!
You should definitely get a lawyer if charged. If you can’t afford one, a public defender is a solid option. Remember, police do not provide legal advice, and if they don’t understand your case fully—even a hint of complexity—they can overreact.
@Channing
This seems more a civil matter than criminal. It appears the police are merely trying to appease the other party.
You are sure you’re communicating with actual police? You should stop talking to them entirely unless you have legal representation.
Lyle said:
You are sure you’re communicating with actual police? You should stop talking to them entirely unless you have legal representation.
The police may not even be involved. I believe this is just bluffing on their part to scare you.
I doubt any DA will pursue this. Cut off communication with your cousin’s family. If any legal summons comes, ensure you attend.
Vinnie said:
I doubt any DA will pursue this. Cut off communication with your cousin’s family. If any legal summons comes, ensure you attend.
In some areas, DAs just go along with police requests, which can be frustrating.
If these calls are false, they may not be from police at all. Actual police don’t typically warn people about potential charges.
It sounds like the calls may not have come from real police. Stop communicating with anyone about this, except for a lawyer.
I don’t think you’ll face actual charges. The police saying you could be charged might be their way of scaring you.
There’s a gray area since you removed them from a vehicle on someone else’s property. Clarify whether you lent tires and if you actually took the wheels.
You should still call the police station to clarify. Don’t let someone try to scam you over some old tires.
By ‘their logic’, if I take someone’s tires and put them on my vehicle, they’re mine now? That just doesn’t make any sense.
In your situation, consider letting them take you to court. You’ve documented your side well—keep it, as it could play in your favor.