Is it legal for California dispatchers to take stolen vehicle reports from citizens over the phone?
A. First, the standard CHP stolen vehicle report form used by many law enforcement agencies in California includes a space for the vehicle owner’s signature. Without the signature, you (meaning the department, D.A., etc.) might run into technical legal problems related to, “Oh, I didn’t report that vehicle stolen!” Taking a report by phone, and not obtaining the complainant’s signature is a sure way of running into trouble…eventually. Although it’s not a legal requirement, personal contact is really advisable. Frankly, I’d say this is the biggest issue. Second, there’s nothing in the California law the requires a “peace officer” to take stolen vehicle reports. There
