How 'bout this: the mechanic's buddy had to build a shed and needed a vehicle to carry tools and lumber. The mechanic knows Ricci won't be getting his Jeep for a few weeks yet, loans it to his buddy.
Now, out of the blue, the FBI wants to know about the jeep. The mechanic is looking for a way to admit that the jeep wasn't on the lot for a few days, without admitting to any criminal wrongdoing.
Uh, it disappeared, then reappeared. Huh? It's OK, Ricci had it. How do I know? Because he brought it back. It disappeared and Ricci brought it back. Why didn't I report it stolen when I noticed it missing? Uh, uh... Well um... Mrs. Ricci called and said he would come get it. That's right. She called. I didn't do anything wrong.
Let's see if I've got it figured out from your theory? We have a 5-time convicted felon who used to work in the Smart home, admited burglarizing it as well as other homes in the area, is back in prison for parole violation, married to a Somatose woman who has been convicted of 10 counts of forgery and dealing drugs, who incidently the cops/FBI claim has an alibi full of holes.
Then we have an auto mechanic who keeps meticulous records including the mileage of every vehicle he repairs. A mechanic who had loner cars available for some of his customers as reported on Banfield.
Gee, I wonder who I should believe?