In the realm of automobiles, lower mileage typically translates to a higher resale value. However, intentionally meddling with an odometer to misrepresent or decrease its mileage reading is not just unethical—it’s a federal offense.
Every year, an alarming number of cars, roughly 450,000, are sold with fraudulent odometer readings. This deceit robs buyers of a staggering $1 billion, based on findings from a 2022 study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Contact Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 now to request a free legal consultation if you are facing this or other federal charges.
The Depth of Federal Laws on Odometer Fraud
Recognizing the rampant and costly nature of odometer fraud, the federal government took decisive action, declaring odometer tampering as a grave felony. The following acts are considered illegal:
- Marketing, selling, using, or having in possession any device that inaccurately alters the reading of a vehicle’s odometer, making it inconsistent with the actual miles the vehicle has traveled.
- Intentionally manipulating, disconnecting, or resetting a car’s odometer to misrepresent its mileage.
- Operating a vehicle on public roads with full knowledge that its odometer has been disconnected or isn’t functioning, with a deceitful intent.
- Planning or conspiring to engage in any of the above activities.
Furthermore, individuals involved in altering or rolling back odometers often indulge in forging or altering essential vehicle documents, including its title, which displays its mileage. Deceptively representing a vehicle’s mileage constitutes another set of federal offenses, frequently associated with cases of odometer tampering.
Possession or creation of counterfeit or falsified vehicle titles infringes upon the law and transporting such tampered documents across state lines brakes further laws. Orchestrating a scheme to tamper with odometers and fabricate mileage records might lead to additional charges.
The Consequences of Odometer Fraud: Understanding the Penalties
Those found guilty of federal odometer fraud are liable to face rigorous penalties. Violators can be subjected to substantial civil penalties. Each incidence of tampered odometer is viewed as an individual violation, with fines reaching up to $10,000.
Victims of such fraudulent actions can also pursue legal action against the wrongdoer. If successful, they could recover thrice the actual damages incurred or $10,000, depending on which amount is larger. Beyond monetary penalties, intentional involvement in odometer fraud can lead to a federal prison sentence of up to three years.
If you find yourself facing charges related to odometer tampering, it’s essential to secure the assistance of adept federal criminal defense attorneys. Get in touch with Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 to explore your legal options and ensure your rights are upheld.
