Q: How can I make a vehicle theft report of my own titled truck, when I have warrants I can't clear up yet.
It was a carjacking, I had my sister with a notarized power of attorney try in person but they refused to file the truck as stolen but opened a report.
A:
I understand this is a difficult and stressful situation. Here are a few suggestions on how to proceed, but please note that I cannot provide legal advice and recommend consulting with a lawyer for guidance specific to your case.
In general, to report a stolen vehicle in California when you have outstanding warrants:
1. You can file a police report by phone instead of going in person, to avoid being arrested on the warrants when making the report. Call the non-emergency number of your local police department.
2. When speaking to the police, focus only on the details of the carjacking and stolen vehicle. Do not volunteer information about your outstanding warrants.
3. Provide the police with all relevant information - the make, model, year, color, license plate number and VIN of the stolen truck, as well as when and where the carjacking occurred, a description of the carjacker if you have one, etc.
4. If the police refuse to take the stolen vehicle report from you over the phone due to the warrants, you can have a third party like a family member, friend or lawyer report the theft on your behalf, as your sister attempted to do. They should bring proof that they are acting as your authorized representative.
5. If the police still won't file the truck as stolen, contact a criminal defense attorney for advice on your options. You may need to arrange to clear the warrants in order to get your stolen vehicle report filed and truck recovered.
I'm sorry you're dealing with this difficult situation. A consultation with a criminal defense lawyer may provide the clearest path forward. Wishing you all the best in resolving this - please stay safe.
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