The Unfortunate Incident
Just a few weeks after purchasing a 2018 Kia Soul for nearly ,000 from Drive Time on Winchester Road in Memphis on Nov. 2, Green and Gouldin found themselves in a terrifying situation. While on their way to work in Horn Lake, they noticed flashing blue lights in their rear-view mirror.
It turned out that the expiration date on the drive out tag was hidden, leading to their detention. The deputy who came to check found that the car was reported stolen in Horn Lake back in October. The VIN from the dashboard matched the VIN from the National Crime Information Center.
The Aftermath
Once the deputies confiscated the car, the couple was left stranded on the side of the road for an hour. They returned to Drive Time the next morning, only to be told that the dealership had no idea the car was stolen and offered no reimbursement.
Gouldin said, "They took it. We didn't turn it in. So be accountable. We were left on the side of the road for an hour at 3 a.m. We had to call a Lyft, and that's not easy in Memphis. I guess that's the world we live in, especially dealing with Drive Time."
Dealing with the Dealer
FOX13 went to Drive Time to seek answers, but the manager directed them to reach out to corporate. Despite calling and sending an email on Wednesday afternoon, no response has been received.
This incident raises many questions about the due diligence of dealerships and the processes in place to prevent the sale of stolen vehicles. It also highlights the difficulties faced by victims in such situations.
The Impact on the Couple
For Amelia Green, it was a tough experience, especially thinking that she was going to jail for something she had no knowledge of. She said, "It was tough, especially thinking that I was going to jail for nothing."
Curtis Gouldin added, "With the sale there was nothing suspicious. I mean, they did everything you would think they are supposed to do, from the bank to the insurance. As far as what they do behind closed doors with NCIC checks. I don't know."
This story serves as a reminder to be vigilant when buying used cars and to ensure that all necessary checks are made. It also shows the importance of dealerships taking responsibility for the vehicles they sell.