The lady is foolish. The stolen car was likely closed out by insurance 38 years ago. The former owner has no claim - he was paid for his loss, and he moved on. She should get a lawyer, and to to the insurance company and reimburse them for the amount of the settlement. The question is interest on that money, which is why a lawyer might be needed. Giving it back to the original owner is gross stupidity, unless he wants to 1) pay back the insurance money plus interest, and 2) the insurance company goes after the used car lot that sold a stolen car. My question is how it took 38 years for this to come to light?? If I buy a car off of the lot in KS I have to title it in my name within 30 days, which means a the DMV verifies the former owner and a legit deal before I get a new title. Something is fishy here.....