Louisiana Woman Shocked to Learn She Purchased a Stolen Vehicle

According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau, Louisiana routinely ranks among the top states for vehicle thefts.

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Ten thousand vehicles were reported stolen in 2022, with New Orleans, Baton Rouge, and Shreveport having the most reports. New Orleans alone saw 4,000 stolen vehicles reported in one year, while Baton Rouge car thefts increased by 30%.

Criminals typically target used, unregistered vehicles because they are harder to track down, and unfortunately, they are often unknowingly resold to buyers.

Brandi Jenkins from Baton Rouge found herself at the center of a fraudulent car sale after being pulled over by police.

Louisiana Woman Informed She Purchased a Stolen Vehicle

Jenkins bought a car from Calvin Scott on January 31st for $1,800. Just a few days after purchasing the preowned vehicle from Scott, she was pulled over by Baton Rouge Police, according to WBRZ.

"They said, ‘Ma'am, you're in a stolen vehicle’, and I'm like, no, it's not stolen I just purchased this vehicle Friday. They were going to take me to jail, and by having the proof, and I showed them where I sent the money, I also had the title and the bill of sales that he gave me, I was able to get out of the situation."

Police seized the stolen vehicle, leaving Jenkins fighting for a refund from Scott who she tell WBRZ she has had very little communication with.

"As of today, I have yet to receive my money. I've been calling him, and calling him, and texting him, he's not responding."

According to Jenkins, Scott is in the process of trying to sell a different car to make back the money she paid him for the stolen car.

Scott tells WBRZ that he didn't know the car was stolen and says it was an 'honest mistake'.

"I mean I understand where she's coming from, I understand that's your money, I understand that. and I told her over and over I'm truly sorry. I really apologized and if I knew it was stolen I wouldn't have posted it on Facebook, posted it on Instagram."

Scott provided proof to the police department showing he did not knowingly sell Jenkins a stolen vehicle. At this time there are not any details about if anyone will be facing charges since Scott does not have a criminal history.

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