What is the correct procedure if a numbered vessel is stolen?

Reporting a stolen numbered vessel to local authorities and the Missouri Department of Revenue (MDOR) within 15 days is essential for several reasons. First, timely reporting increases the chances of recovering the vessel. Local authorities can initiate investigations right away, and if the vessel is seen in the area or identified, quick action can lead to its return.

Additionally, notifying the MDOR is crucial because they maintain records of all registered vessels in Missouri. This helps prevent fraudulent activity and ensures the stolen vessel is flagged in the registry, which can be critical for law enforcement when conducting checks or stopping vessels on the water. Failure to report promptly can lead to complications in recovery efforts and may also affect any claims or actions taken regarding insurance.

In contrast, waiting 30 days before reporting significantly reduces recovery chances, as the vessel could be moved or sold during that time. Notifying the insurance company only would isolate the issue to financial matters and does not assist in the recovery through proper legal channels. Keeping the matter confidential does not address the immediate need to alert appropriate authorities, which is a vital step in recovering stolen property.