| Under general
direction, motor vehicle investigators perform field inspection and investigative work
relating to vehicle registration, vehicle dealer licensing, vehicle theft exams on salvage
vehicles, driver's license fraud, use tax fraud, odometer fraud and stolen vehicles. All positions are designated as state peace officers as defined
in the Code of Iowa. Motor vehicle investigators work independently
and are responsible for making decisions based upon information
gathered. All 22 motor vehicle investigators report to the Captain and Commander of the
Investigative Unit, who in turn report to the director of the Office of Motor Vehicle
Enforcement.
The following is a brief description of duties performed by the motor vehicle
investigator:
Vehicle Title & Registration
Motor vehicle investigators are responsible for assigning vehicle identification
numbers to vehicles which have had the identification number lost, stolen or mutilated. When a
vehicle is homemade or reconstructed, an investigator must examine it to check for
compliance with Code of Iowa and DOT Administrative Rules. Also, the investigator
investigates cases involving fraudulent applications for motor vehicle titles and
violations pertaining to the ownership and transfer of motor vehicles. Investigates
complaints of identity theft as they relate to the application and issuance of Iowa
registration and title documents.
Odometer Fraud
Odometer fraud involves the fraudulent reduction of mileage on a vehicle to inflate its
value. Investigators compile information and develop cases for possible prosecution on
odometer fraud in cooperation with the Iowa Attorney General's Office.
Use Tax Fraud
Use tax fraud investigations are conducted by investigators as they pertain to the sale
and transfer of motor vehicles and aircraft that are subject to registration. The
investigator obtains title records, bills of sale, cancelled checks, and conducts
interviews to determine if a violation occurred. If criminal charges are warranted, the
investigator files appropriate charges with the county attorney's office.
Driver's License Fraud
Drivers' license fraud investigations involve the fraudulent alteration, manufacture
and fraudulent application for Iowa licenses. Investigators interview witnesses and
suspects, and examine documents to determine their authenticity, and compile information
for prosecution. Investigates complaints of identity theft as they relate to the
application and issuance of Iowa driver license and Iowa ID. Investigators also
provide training to law enforcement agencies, financial institutions, and beer and liquor
retailers on the detection of drivers' license fraud.
Motor Vehicle Dealer License
Investigators conduct on-site inspections for dealer license applicants to determine if
the facility meets minimum state standards for licensing as a motor vehicle dealer. Audits
of licensed dealers are also conducted to determine if there is compliance with the Code
of Iowa and Administrative Rules. Consumer complaints against licensed dealers are
investigated by motor vehicle investigators.
Internal Investigations
Investigators perform
internal investigations at the request of the Motor Vehicle Division Director or Director
of the Office of Motor Vehicle Enforcement.
County Treasurer Liaison
Investigators assist county treasurers with
questions and customer complaints regarding the transferring of motor vehicles.
Investigators also review and audit motor vehicle records at county treasurers' offices to
determine the accuracy of documents and their compliance with state and federal
regulations.
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