Stolen VW Beetle found in Detroit after 40 years

U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers find 1964 Beetle during shipment out of Michigan

DETROIT – A Volkswagen Beetle that was reported stolen from Tennessee in the 1970s has been found in Detroit.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection said officers in Detroit found the 1965 Beetle during a document check on Jan. 30 as it was being shipped from Michigan to Finland.

It had been reported stolen out of Knoxville in 1974.

"Part of safeguarding our nation is to make sure that all exports are legitimate and lawful," said Acting Port Director Marty Raybon. "Recovering a vehicle reported stolen 40 years ago is a testament to the vigilance and attention to detail on the part of CBP."

The vehicle and parts related to its restoration were seized by CBP.

CBP didn't say whether anyone would face charges related to the case.