Vehicle Theft Prevention Strategies

• NCJ Number: 94424
• Author(s): B N W Lee; G P Rikoski
• Date Published: 1984
• Length: 122 pages
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical); Issue Overview

Annotation

This monograph explains the nature and extent of the automobile theft problem in the United States; presents strategies being used in the public and private sectors to deal with this problem; and presents guidelines for coordinating all types of vehicle theft prevention and control activities at the State, regional, and national levels.

Abstract

Information for the study came from an advisory panel of experts, a literature review, contacts with organizations, onsite observations in four States (Massachusetts, New York, California, and Illinois), interviews, and other contacts. Measures being taken or needed in the vehicle manufacturing, dismantling, recycling, and scrap processing industries are described. An examination of titling and registration practices covers the strategies in three major areas: fraudulent ownership documentation, alterations in vehicle identification numbers, and switching of salvage vehicles. A discussion of insurance company practices considers the prevention of vehicle theft insurance fraud, the improvement of insurance practices in total loss settlements, and the prevention of theft and fraud through a supportive insurance market system. The role of the criminal justice system is described in terms of five topics: prevention through public education activities, the collection of accurate information, the provision of specialized investigation, the use of law reform, and interjurisdictional cooperation. Forms, checklists, footnotes, and appendixes presenting information on State legislation and related information are supplied.