NCJ Number
127969
Journal
FBI Law Enforcement Bulletin Volume: 60 Issue: 1 Dated: (January 1991) Pages: 20-23
Date Published
1991
Length
4 pages
Annotation
The newly created RAT (Reduce Auto Theft) Patrol in the Colorado Springs Police Department is specially trained to counter the rising incidence of auto theft in that city.
Abstract
The unit consists of two officers from the Tactical Enforcement Unit, two officers from each patrol shift, and a sergeant. Patrol shift officers are rotated on and off the unit to ensure a continuous infusion of training and tactical information to the patrol shifts. RAT Patrol officers receive special training in locating hidden vehicle identification numbers, restoring obliterated vehicle identification numbers, recognizing stolen vehicles, conducting auto-theft investigations, and interviewing/interrogating suspects. The RAT Patrol's work began with a crime analysis that involved profiling auto-theft offenders and their case dispositions, types of vehicles stolen, times and places of thefts, and criminal methods. The unit works in plain-clothes and unmarked vehicles. Investigative techniques include the matching of known offenders with evidence of theft method; concentration of patrol during the times and at the places where most thefts occur; and the monitoring of potential outlets for stolen vehicles, their parts, and accessories. The unit also works with the District Attorney's Office to ensure the effective prosecution and sentencing of repeat car thieves. The significant reduction in auto theft and the increase in vehicle recoveries since the RAT Patrol began its work indicates the unit has been effective.