We left a $600 deposit on a vehicle from a private party. He gave us a receipt for the $600 and a date to deliver the vehicle and title. He didn't get the title in a timely manner and we needed a car, so we asked for our deposit back. Initially, he agreed to mail it to us, but now he refuses to return the money and even claims to have sold the vehicle to someone else. Can I file a complaint of theft or fraud, or is this strictly a civil case?
Fraud is difficult to prove. You can try filing a complaint with DA. DA will decide if they want to pursue it or not. You can sue in small claims court for sure.