Originally Posted by
filtersweep
I would be shocked if the police made anything easy about this. It was never reported stolen. Someone else already has possession. Suddenly this becomes a civil rather than a criminal matter-- and the police have no jurisdiction.
It doesn't hurt to ask--- but on the other hand, is it illegal to take your own property? I think not. If you are caught, the court will sort it all out. I question whether the person in possession right now would even file charges, given the circumstances--- and the state would not file on his behalf for such a petty crime. I would just take what is yours.
that's a really interesting point. if it was never reported stolen, then having the proof of purchase doesn't do much good. someone could sell a bike, keep the proof of purchase, and then rip off the buyer by having the cops take it back. good luck swiping it back, but be careful and maybe take some friends with you or something.