Odometer Fraud in Florida

Odometer fraud is a common type of fraud committed by used car dealers, mechanics, and individuals seeking to sell a used car for more than it is worth. Especially when economic times are difficult, a seller may be tempted to roll back the odometer so that the car appears to have fewer miles on it than it actually does. Unfortunately for offenders, there are many ways for prospective buyers and investigators to determine if the mileage reflected on the odometer is accurate. If odometer fraud is discovered, those involved may be arrested on several charges that carry severe penalties if convicted.

What is Odometer Fraud?

Odometer fraud involves any kind of tampering with a vehicle’s odometer so that it does not accurately depict the number of miles that the car has been driven. This can include knowingly adjusting, altering, rolling back, disconnecting, or failing to reconnect an odometer. Odometer fraud is a third-degree felony under Florida law.

Associated Crimes and Penalties

Typically, when a person commits odometer fraud, she or he also violates other laws as well. The physical act of tampering with a vehicle’s odometer constitutes odometer fraud, but the acts of selling the car and defrauding a customer of money are separate, additional crimes with which an offender can be charged. An individual who commits odometer fraud will likely also be charged with title fraud and grand theft, which are both third-degree felonies as well. Each third-degree felony conviction carries the following penalties:

• Up to 5 years in prison
• Up to $5,000 in fines
• Restitution payments to victims

In addition, the victims of fraud may sue the offender for damages, including the difference between the price paid for the car and what it is actually worth, the cost of maintenance, lost time from work maintaining the car, additional insurance costs, and vehicle safety.

Contact Us

If you have been charged with odometer fraud, you likely face several additional charges that could lead to many years in prison and a heap of costly fines and lawsuits. It is therefore important to consult with an experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible to begin preparing your defense for court.

For sound legal advice and assistance regarding odometer fraud and related charges, don’t hesitate to contact the West Palm Beach criminal attorneys of Eric N. Klein & Associates, P.A. today at 561-353-2800.