First off, don't ask the police what to do if the numbers don't match, as they aren't experts on registering and applying for titles. They are, however, experts on recovering stolen property. Just ask them to send an officer out to do a vin check. They do it all the time and will have an answer before they leave. If it's stolen, they'll take it to the impound yard. If not, you have to deal with the seller of the car to get an accurate title and you can keep the car. Second, call the seller. You can't sell a car legally without the ability to deliver a title. They may have just accidentally given you the wrong title... that happens more than you might think. If they can't produce a title within a certain period of time, they aren't legally allowed to sell the vehicle, and in fact have broken the law. If they don't give you your money back, call the police. I think that falls under the category of either fraud or conversion, and people can be arrested for both of those. As far as jail is concerned, you didn't know, so don't worry. Just make sure you have a bill of sale for the car. You have to have knowledge of the property being stolen to face posession of stolen property charges. For representation, all you might need is a civil lawyer if you have to sue the seller. If not, don't worry

First, call the police and make a report. be sure to show the officer the certified letter sent from your insurance company. at first, this appears to be civil, but having possession of a stolen vehicle makes this criminal, also. For the police report, be prepared to give the officer the name and address of the person who sold you this vehicle. he will later be contacted by an auto theft detective, who will investigate and later seek a warrant. As far as your money goes, its just gone. you may sue this person in civil court, but chances are if he had any money, he would not be selling you a stolen auto. Just co-operate with the police and do as they ask.