Registering A Car For Other People (and how to make it better)

VisionOfClarity

So a coworker of mine made the huge mistake of registering a car in her name for a friend of her on-again/off-again boyfriend in 2007. She thought that was the end of it and he registered it on his own the following year. Well, he didn't. Because the plates were never turned in she owes excise tax for 2008 and 2009 (roughly $350) and has since found out there are 5 (5!) parking tickets on the car ($350) among other fees/penalties. Even if she could pay all of this tomorrow, she still would have to find the plates to turn in.

What are her options if she can't find this guy/the car? My first thought was report it stolen but I don't think that's appropriate. Also, can she get the money from this guy or should she consider that a lost cause?

Edit: We're in MA.

illig

probably go to the DMV and explain the situation... be prepared for a fine, etc... afterwards de-register the car if it's possible w/out possession of the plates, and get the guy booted the next time he parks illegally