When serious bad guys get nabbed for a minor crime, it provides an opportunity to check for outstanding warrants on them and get them off the streets.

WSJ: Stopping Urban Crime Without Jail Time

Motorists buying a used car are being advised to get it independently inspected, but also to check its history to make sure it has not been stolen, written off for insurance purposes or still carries an outstanding loan.

BBC: NEWS | UK | Quarter of used cars 'dangerous'