The car stolen (a 1957 DeSoto) was stolen in 1957, nearly 25 years before the setting of the events. Since the owner would have to insure the vehicle, they would have been compensated her for the loss of the car when she reported it stolen. The car would have belonged to the insurance company then and not the "owner" who was called down to the station.
In New York of 1957, liability insurance only was required, which would not have protected the owner from theft. Since there was no coverage, there is no transfer of ownership and statute of limitations apply.
In New York of 1957, liability insurance only was required, which would not have protected the owner from theft. Since there was no coverage, there is no transfer of ownership and statute of limitations apply.