I may have stolen HVAC equipment in my house. Can I hold the previous owner liable?

I moved into a house about 4 years ago and my HVAC compressor and fan went out on my condenser unit outside. The unit was made in 2020 according the stock and serial number on the unit. A technician came out and today to look at the system. We were calling Rheem to see if it’s still under warranty. Rheem said they do not recognize the serial number. Most likely the unit may be stolen or serial numbers are fake. Now I’m on the hook for $9800 to replace the condenser and evaporator coil. Can I sue the previous owner for the damages?