Q: In Wa,Can I retrieve possessions of mine from a car that is determined to be stolen if I am not the driver
I was exiting a veichle to go to into a store and a cop approached, he asked about the veichle which was parked wrong , I informed him I knew nothing about it and went into the sore, leaving my backpack, later when I returned to grab my things I was told the car has been reported stolen , can I still retrieve my things
A:
In Washington, as in many states, if you can prove ownership of personal items inside a vehicle that has been determined to be stolen, you typically have a right to retrieve those items. The police department or impound lot may have a procedure for you to follow. You'd likely need to provide identification and potentially proof of ownership of the items you want to retrieve.
It's crucial to cooperate fully with law enforcement and explain your situation. If the police suspect that the items are evidence or connected to a crime, they may retain them during an investigation. Always be cautious and consult with a local attorney if you encounter difficulties or if there are concerns about potential charges related to the stolen vehicle. It's essential to ensure your actions are consistent with the law and that your rights are protected.
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