[njsteve]

Call your local FBI office and ask to speak to the squad that handles Interstate Transportation of Stolen Motor Vehicles (ITSMV). Tell them your very valuable collector car was stolen and just found to be registered in another state. Most of the guys that work that violation are car guys and usually go the extra mile. What local detective is telling you is wrong. The original owner's rights take precedence.

In addition, call the DA in your town and raise a stink right now. The more higher level people you talk to, the more satisfaction you will get.

Call the local newspaper in your area. Stolen collector car recoveries are usuallly attractive media events.

P.S. Something just doesnt sound right here. Do you actually know this local detective that called you, actually works for the police department? It sounds very much like a scam to get $13k out of you.