I live in California. I found an auto part next to a dumpster, it had been there for few days so i brought it in and cleaned it up. Can i se...

Question

I live in California. I found an auto part next to a dumpster, it had been there for few days so i brought it in and cleaned it up. Can i sell it on craigslist? If it was stolen, and the buyer sees it in craigslist and contacts police, can i get in trouble? What should i do to protect myself? i don't really have a reason to believe it was stolen, but I don't want to take any chances just for a few dollars. Thanks

Answer

The only crime that I can see you being charged with is receipt of stolen property, pursuant to Penal Code section 496. The prosecutor would have to prove that the item was stolen, and that you knew it was stolen in order to convict you.

You need to ask yourself whether the money you make from this is worth all the hassle, or whether or not you should inquire as to whether it is stolen or not.