Can an unscrupulous car dealer sell a car to a person with dementia?

Your profile says he has dementia. Is that right? Is he competent to enter into a contract?

If I recall correctly I had to show my driver's license the last time I bought a car. That would be a stopping point if he couldn't produce one at a dealership. From someone who advertises on Craig's List, that might be a different story, and it's more likely that he'd scammed if he tries that option. Do you think he would even try? If so, take precautions, monitor everyone who might come to the house although typically sellers want someone to come to them.

However, one unsavory character insisted he would bring a photo of the vehicle about which I had called to my house. I insisted he wouldn't! I was uncomfortable for a few days wondering if he would back trace my phone number and show up at my front door.

This is a rough time for your husband. Loss of independence is a serious challenge, and losing a car and being dependent on someone else can be a major shock.

Can you plan some outings for him just to show that you or your son are available to take him and he doesn't need to be afraid of being stranded at home? Make it a nice family outing so he can relax.

My father eventually said he got used to someone else doing all the driving work and that he could watch the scenery more leisurely and comfortably than he could when he was driving.

If he has access to his resources and is making bizarre and dangerous financial decisions, I'd make sure I have legal authority to intervene and ensure he has constant supervision.

Just reread the title of your post. If he's in debt, would he even have the funds to buy a car or qualify for a loan? I'm sure if the latter, a credit report would be ordered and that might stop the transaction then and there.

Another possibility if he tells you he's going to a specific dealership to look for cars is to alert them that he has no driver's license and no money (the latter statement should be or more concern to them!).