31-11-108. Examination of vehicle identification numbers; notification where number altered; penalties for violations.
(a) Every dealer shall examine, without charge, the vehicle identification number of every vehicle coming into his possession except those vehicles received by him for the express purpose of repairs that do not require the replacement of any component that bears a vehicle identification number. The dealer is not required to examine the vehicle identification number of the same vehicle more than once in the same calendar year when the dealer knows that the person in possession of the vehicle is the lawful owner. The dealer shall promptly notify the local sheriff's office if the vehicle identification number of the vehicle has been altered, changed or obliterated as to make the number indecipherable or if the vehicle identification number or the state registration license number of the vehicle does not correspond with the vehicle identification number of the vehicle state registration certificate.
(b) Any person knowingly violating this section shall be punished by a fine not to exceed seven hundred fifty dollars ($750.00), by imprisonment in the county jail not to exceed six (6) months, or both.
(c) Any person knowingly and with intent to defraud violating this section shall be punished by a fine not to exceed five thousand dollars ($5,000.00), by imprisonment not to exceed five (5) years, or both.