My question involves a traffic citation from the state of: Indiana
I was stopped in Indianapolis, IN. I am an Ohio resident.
I was ticketed for operation of vehicle w/expired plates [9-18-2-7]
But as a non-resident there also exists in the same [9-18-2] chapter:
I am not required to plate my non-commercial vehicle according to Ohio code. I have 60 days to appear. But I am now stuck in Indianapolis where the state has no jurisdiction even according to their own code.Code:IC 9-18-2-2
Registration; nonresidents
Sec. 2. (a) Except as otherwise provided in this section, a nonresident who owns a vehicle required to be registered under this article may:
(1) operate; or
(2) permit the operation of;
the vehicle in Indiana without registering the vehicle or paying any fees if the vehicle is properly registered in the jurisdiction in which the nonresident is a resident.
(b) An exemption granted to nonresident owners under this section applies only to the extent that Indiana residents are granted exemptions in the jurisdiction that is the residence of the nonresident.
As added by P.L.2-1991, SEC.6.
IC 9-18-2-3
Reciprocity
Sec. 3. An officer of the state charged with the enforcement of this article shall grant to a person who is a nonresident owner of a vehicle privileges of vehicle operation in Indiana equal to the privileges granted to an Indiana resident who owns or operates a vehicle in the person's state of residence.
As added by P.L.2-1991, SEC.6.
I recorded the stop with the police and informed them of my rights and also informed the third party tow company they did not have my permission to impound my vehicle - and would be considered theft.
How can I get unstuck? Indiana doesn't have the authority to require me to register or plate my automobile - especially being a non resident. Which, intact what they are trying to force me to do with it being impounded out of state.
Im not sure how to move forward here. Ive thought to send a letter to the court informing them of their lack of jurisdiction...
Ive also researched a bit on injunctions but have found very little information (particularly where I am the defendant - do I need to sue the tow company?)
Your help would be appreciated. Thanks,
Respectfully,
Tommy
