DETROIT – Police are intensifying their efforts to combat motor vehicle theft with a comprehensive crackdown across the city.
During a rare ride-along with the Commercial Auto Theft Unit, key insights emerged regarding the top stolen vehicles and the tactics used to apprehend suspects.
“Each week, we’re utilizing resources like license plate readers and green lights to focus on areas experiencing increased vehicle theft. Surveillance units, including undercover officers and vehicles, actively search these areas for stolen cars,” Lt. Nathan Miller told Local 4.
Once a stolen vehicle is identified, air support is sometimes deployed to monitor it, followed by marked units attempting to stop the vehicle.
“The ultimate goal is to arrest individuals in possession of stolen vehicles,” Miller said.
The vehicles most frequently targeted are the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Dodge Durango and Ram 1500. These models are vulnerable due to easier methods to reprogram keys, and their parts hold strong resale value.
According to the department, thieves can quickly strip parts and resell them from Jeep Grand Cherokees.
The spectrum of offenders is broad, ranging from juveniles to those in their 50s.
“We see a diverse range of individuals stealing cars,” Miller said.
Collaborative theft rings are common, employing tactics such as pushing vehicles or breaking in and reprogramming keys to steal cars. Motivations vary; some seek quick money through parts sales, while others use stolen vehicles to facilitate more serious crimes.
Youth involvement in these thefts is particularly concerning.
“Whenever juveniles are found driving or possessing stolen vehicles, it raises alarms about their potential future criminal paths,” Miller said.
Technology plays a pivotal role in enforcement. The department has recently added more cameras on freeway exit ramps, generating frequent alerts of stolen vehicles entering or cruising freeways.
The license plate readers notify officers the moment a stolen vehicle passes.
Safety considerations limit direct pursuits of stolen vehicles, according to Sgt. Daron Zhou.
“Chances to stop a fleeing stolen vehicle are slim, and attempts can endanger the community,” Zhou said. “That’s why we rely heavily on air support and maintain a safe following distance with undercover units.”
When a stolen vehicle stops, marked scout cars proceed to intervene.
In July, designated as Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention Awareness Month, the police encourage residents to enhance vehicle security by avoiding easy targets—such as leaving keys in the car or parking in poorly lit areas.
“Our goal is to empower citizens to take steps making theft more difficult,” Miller said.