28-4846. Stolen vehicles; inspection; violation; classification

A. For the purposes of enforcing this title or locating stolen vehicles or parts of those vehicles, peace officers may:

1. Inspect a vehicle to examine any vehicle identification number, serial number or other unique distinguishing number, sign or symbol in any public garage, vehicle storage, repair, leasing or rental lot or facility, vehicle equipment rental yard, vehicle salvage pool or other similar establishment.

2. Inspect the title or registration of those vehicles in order to establish their rightful ownership or possession.

B. Peace officers may also inspect a bicycle, an implement of husbandry, special construction equipment and a motor vehicle designed for off-highway use that is on the premises described in subsection A or if such a vehicle is incidentally operated or transported on a highway.

C. Inspections shall be conducted at a time and in a manner that minimizes any unreasonable interference with or delay of the business operation.

D. If information comes to the attention of the person conducting an inspection pursuant to this section that may necessitate obtaining a search warrant and if steps are promptly initiated for the procurement of a search warrant, the persons conducting the inspection may take all necessary steps to secure the premises under inspection until the warrant application is acted on by a judicial officer.

E. Off-duty officers and officers employed in a law enforcement capacity to conduct inspections pursuant to this section, including peace officers designated by the director pursuant to section 28-369, may access any state or national criminal information system to determine if a vehicle is stolen.

F. A person who refuses to permit inspection under this section is guilty of a class 1 misdemeanor.