Borough of Pen Argyl, PA Chapter 86 Secondhand Dealers and Pawnbrokers

[HISTORY: Adopted by the Borough Council of the Borough of Pen Argyl as indicated in article histories. Amendments noted where applicable.]

Article I Recordkeeping

[Adopted 8-7-2012 by Ord. No. 668, approved 8-7-2012]

§ 86-1 Reports to Police Department.

A. All pawnbrokers (as that term is defined under the Pawnbrokers Licensing Act, 63 P.S. § 281-1 et seq.), as well as other jewelers or merchants of any kind buying or trading secondhand jewelry, coins, precious metals or electronics, shall keep complete and accurate records on forms provided by the Pen Argyl Police Department, of any and all items taken in pawn, exchanged, and/or purchased by them. These records shall, at a minimum, include all of the following:

(1) The name, address and telephone number of the individual pawning or selling the item.

(2) Proof of the individual's positive identification, e.g., Pennsylvania driver's license number or Pennsylvania non-driver's license identification number.

(3) A photocopy of the driver's license or identification card of the individual pawning or selling the item(s). If a non-photo identification is provided by the individual pawning or selling the item(s), the shop operating shall take a photograph of the individual.

(4) Description and serial number (where applicable) of the item pawned or sold.

(5) The price for which the item was pawned or sold.

B. In the event that the individual pawning or selling the item is under 18 years of age, he/she shall be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. The parent or legal guardian must also provide proof of positive identification, the same being recorded in the merchant's records.

C. If the item purchased is to be changed in any way, including, but not limited to, melting or smelting, the purchaser/pawnbroker shall photograph the object and immediately notify, by telephone, the Pen Argyl Police Department. Such notification shall include a description of the item. The item shall not be altered within 72 hours of the notification.

D. A legible, accurate and complete copy of these records shall be available to any Pen Argyl police officer upon demand.

§ 86-2 Violations and penalties.

Any persons violating any provision of this article shall be guilty of a summary offense and shall, upon conviction by the appropriate District Magistrate, be fined no more than $300 or imprisoned for not more than 90 days, or both.