Unauthorized Vehicle Disposal Consequences

Summary

In North Carolina, unauthorized disposal of a vehicle is considered theft and is illegal. Its important to report such incidents to the police immediately, preferably in the town where the mechanics shop is located. No written agreement or communication with the mechanic about the repair or disposal of the vehicle can complicate the situation. Consulting with a lawyer to discuss potential civil action for the loss of the vehicle and belongings is advisable.

Full Conversation

So I let my fiances niece use my vehicle and something happened and she had it took to a mechanic and he said that he was going to have it took to the scrap yard and have it crushed which was Monday I have tried to contact him but he will not answer or return my phone calls he hasn't told me anything or sent me any kind of paperwork. The vehicle is in my name but the title is in the van I have stuff in the van that I need out of it I don't know the address all I have is the phone number. So I was wondering if it was anything I can do about it
What state are you located in? This will help me provide the most accurate information regarding your legal rights in this situation.
North Carolina
What is the name of the mechanic or the shop where your vehicle was taken?
I don't know all I know is the phone number
Do you have any written agreement or communication with the mechanic about the repair or disposal of the vehicle?
No I do not he hasn't sent me anything but I did send him my address and he also has my phone number because I ask him if he could send me a estimate for the repairs but he never did
Did you give the mechanic or your fiance's niece permission to scrap the vehicle? In North Carolina, it's illegal to dispose of someone's property without their consent.
No I did not
Did you report this to the police? In North Carolina, unauthorized disposal of a vehicle can be considered theft.
No not yet because I didn't know what to do that's why I'm trying to find out what to do
You should report this to the police immediately. Unauthorized disposal of a vehicle is considered theft in North Carolina.
Ok do I report it to the police in the town I live in or the town he lives in
You should report it to the police in the town where the mechanic's shop is located.
Ok thanks
You're welcome, ****. If you need further assistance, feel free to ask.
Is there anything else I need to do
You may want to consult with a lawyer to discuss potential civil action for the loss of your vehicle and belongings.