Joiner

Introduction

In this “chop shop” case we are presented with a tedious and complex set of factual circumstances. Not surprisingly, the facts play an important role in the major issue presented—what type of conduct constitutes a violation of Vehicle Code section 10802, tampering with vehicle identification numbers to misrepresent and prevent identification of motor vehicles and vehicle parts for the purpose of sale or transfer? Unfortunately, this combination of circumstances has resulted in a ponderous and somewhat confusing record that we now recount in excruciating detail.

For the serious reader, we suggest a strong cup of coffee, a pencil and scratch paper. For the casual reader and insomniacs, we suggest a comfortable reclined position to avoid any neck strain that may result from abrupt slumber. For skimmers, we summarize our holdings: (1) the false verification of vehicle identification numbers by a person authorized to verify such numbers to the Department of Motor Vehicles pursuant to section 675.5 constitutes a violation of section 10802; (2) conduct designed to prevent the identification of a vehicle that does not include tampering with the vehicle’s…