Florida Family Buys SUV for Teen — Then Sheriff Shows Up and Seizes It

A Dunedin family paid $17,000 in cash for what they thought was the perfect first car for their teenage daughter — a 2017 Toyota RAV4. But seven months later, the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office showed up at their front door and seized the SUV, claiming the sale was tied to a fraud investigation. Despite receiving the title and going through proper DMV channels, the family has been left without the car — or answers.

Consumer investigator Shannon Behnken steps in to get results. She tracks down the seller, uncovers legal documents, and presses for answers as the family navigates an ongoing investigation. The towing company now holding the vehicle may eventually gain ownership under Florida law — but says they’ll work with the family if that happens.

Watch this emotional and frustrating story — and see why when it comes to buying a used car, it pays to Better Call Behnken.