Thanks for all the comments, I can honestly tell you that this computer is NOT stolen - I work in courts for a living, hence the use of Case Catalyst software on the computer. Work have done things like swap hard drives to another laptop, taking the battery out to try to override password, nothing worked. They also talked with Guardian Angel (?) who had some good ideas but again nothing worked.

Someone told me (from this site) would be to take it to a certified Compaq repair shop who might be able to help, think that's what I'll do,

Thanks again for all the constructive replies.