Turbo

This isnt something for open forum. Yes it is illegal, I had to give a statement on an affidavit to the fact that a customer presented a key that I copied and that the assumption was that they had permission or would not be carrying the key. It was later clarified to me exactly why we handle this situation the way we do. It is unreasonable to ask everyone who wants a key copied to sign away on a statement verifying that they have permission from the owner. We do not know how they came about having the key. Do you want the dog sitter, or the plumber who was only supposed to have access one time making copies of your house key or your car keys because it is possible for them too do it? No, of course not. This person can, and sometimes does apparently, because I actually was called on it to testify via affidavit. When the victim let someone have access to his house, apparently they made a copy of they key and the next weekend went back and took a few things without asking, including a small fire safe with some important documents and a ring that belonged to the victims mom, that I think should never have been left in a plastic fire safe. Because of the time frame and proximity, the police went to every hardware store and locksmith shop nearby with a picture of the "suspect" asking if they duplicated any keys recently. I remembered without question, as the gentleman had a very distinct look about him and and a Baldwin lock didnt seem his type. It was also a slow day and I had only helped about 5 or 6 customers. Due to this, I followed up with the police department to find out what happened with court and the suspect. The Menlo Park CA, police department is who told me it is illegal to take advantage of possessing a key and duplicating it without permission, under something they call "clear intent". So to play it safe, and based on actual experience and being told by an authority as well has having formal training as a locksmith where this is also covered without as much detail. Yes it is illegal to copy someones key without their permission. At least here in USA.