Auto Cargo Theft Unit

 The 11 members of the Auto/Cargo Theft Unit investigate the theft and transportation of stolen vehicles, heavy equipment and cargo. Members also work with staff from local auto body shops, car dealerships and heavy equipment and construction companies, conducting inspections and advising them of security concerns and potential scams.

In 2010, the unit launched its Operation Ramp Up initiative. Investigators targeted thieves committing warm-up thefts of high-end vehicles and the exporters who were shipping the stolen vehicles to Africa. The four-month investigation led to the recovery of 40 stolen vehicles and the arrest of six people. This investigation included the deployment of officers into high-theft areas where they advised potential victims about the risk of leaving their vehicles idling unattended in their driveways.

 Click here for more information (including photographs) of recently stolen items.