I have a used blackberry for verizon. Just had my number assigned to it; it's all set up and I can access the web but cannot access email. Verizon said I need to get the previous users login and password. I don't know who it was... can I get past this?

Where did you get the device? You need to contact the person from whom you acquired the BB and either have them refund your money or get them to call their carrier (I assume it is Verizon) and have them close their BIS account.

If that is not possible, call Verizon and explain the situation and have them close the account to which the PIN is assigned and set up another for you.

The person I got it from also got it used and never had the data package. She doesn't know the previous owner nor how to find out the information. If the phone wasn't reported stolen and I now have possession of it and have it on my account; can Verizon close the old BIS account?

They shoudl be able to release the PIN and ESN for you to use.

When you call, be polite, tell them the situation and see what happens. If you get a no. Hang up, wait a few minutes and call back.