Question

On Tuesday, Smokey had taken off his watch, which he had found laying on top of a trash can at the curbside, and placed it on the counter. Several days later, Smokey decided to invite some friends over to play cards. Bandit, Jim, Rob, and Carl came over for the event. Bandit noticed the watch sitting on the counter, and when no one was around he took it. The next day, Bandit sold the watch to Enos for $350. Enos later sold the watch to Rick for $430. When Rick met Smokey later that night for the football game, Smokey realized that Rick had his watch and demanded its return. Rick refused, claiming it was his because he had paid Rick for it. Who owns the watch?

Answer 1

Rick owned the watch.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the scenario given above between Smokey and his group of friends, it is a complicated situation. Initially, Smokey owes the watch but it was stolen by his friend in his house. His friend ended selling it to other person which finally ended up being paid for by Rick after it has exchanged so many hands.

Since Rick had a valid transaction where he paid for a goods for a certain amount of money, it would be validly recognized as the owner of the watch.