Patrol links vehicle theft to homeland security mission

Colonel Paul McClellan
Superintendent
Ohio State Highway Patrol

Vehicle theft reduction has always been a priority in Ohio, but the effort has taken on additional importance as it relates to homeland security. Law enforcement officers must not overlook the fact that criminals, including terrorists are traveling in vehicles amidst other motorists and using transportation to carry out their crimes.

For this reason, auto theft in Ohio can no longer be viewed in the same manner as in the past. Vehicle theft reduction has long been a priority for the Ohio State Highway Patrol. The Patrol has a dedicated program to auto theft recovery committed to the recovery of stolen vehicles and protection of Ohio roadways.

To protect your vehicle from break-ins, which could lead to theft of the vehicle itself or of property items from the vehicle:

• Never leave your car running or leave the keys in the ignition when it is unattended.
• Keep your car doors locked at all times.
• If you have a garage, park your car inside and lock the garage door.
• Don't store packages or valuables in plain sight.
• Park your car in a safe, well-lit, or well-traveled area at night.
• Have your vehicle identification number (VIN) etched into the windows and major parts of your car to make your car harder to resell on the black market.
• When you park on the street, turn your wheels toward the curb, use the emergency brake, and try to park between other cars (this will make it harder for a thief to tow).
• Avoid parking your car in a long-term parking lot.
• Take out any removable electronic devices (e.g. CD player) when you leave your car.

If your vehicle is stolen, report it to your local law enforcement agency immediately. Stolen vehicles are often used in other crimes. Quick action can not only help recover your vehicle but may also prevent its use for illegal purposes.

The Patrol continues to encourage troopers to excel at auto larceny enforcement by offering annual Ace Awards for excellence in auto larceny enforcement by troopers who recover five or more stolen vehicles and make arrests tied to each recovery. In 2005, 30 troopers earned the Ace Award.

The Patrol’s personnel made great strides to reduce and enforce auto larceny in 2005. Last year troopers recovered 889 stolen vehicles, worth over $6 million, and apprehended 699 suspects tied to vehicle theft in Ohio.

Vehicle theft is the second most profitable crime in the United States, surpassed only by the illegal narcotics trade. The ongoing efforts of troopers continue to be a driving force in the overall reduction of auto theft and are having a significant impact on related crimes across the state.

Ohio State Highway Patrol -- Leading the fight against auto theft.