Police on the Lookout for Illegally Registered Vehicles

North Reading, MA - The North Reading Police Department has partnered with the Registry of Motor Vehicles to begin a public awareness campaign about registering out-of-state vehicles to avoid civil citations and criminal complaints.

North Reading Police are in the process of monitoring apartment and condominium complexes, residential streets and parking lots for illegally, out-of-state registered vehicles.

Residents who have out-of-state registrations avoid paying sales tax, excise tax and can evade the Massachusetts' requirement to obtain insurance.

Through a public information campaign, North Reading Police and the registry hope to incite change by explaining the penalties of the law through notices, citations and criminal complaints.

"We want to remind residents that if they are living or renting a home or apartment in North Reading, it is illegal to have an out-of-state registration for their motor vehicle after 30 days of moving into the community," Chief Michael Murphy said. "We will be actively looking for vehicles that do not adhere to the law. If you have moved to town from another community or state, please register your vehicle immediately."

Anyone who notices unregistered vehicles in town is encouraged to report it to the North Reading Police Department. Residents can call the anonymous crime and drug line at 978-657-TIPS. All information will remain confidential.