Testimony of Philip B Heymann on June 10, 1980 Concerning HR 4178 (From Motor Vehicle Theft Prevention Act-Joint Hearings, P 333-354, 1980 See NCJ-82897)

• NCJ Number: 82900
• Author(s): P B Heymann
• Date Published: 1980
• Length: 22 pages
• Sale Source: National Institute of Justice/
• Publication Type: Legislative/Regulatory Material
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Available on microfiche from NCJRS as NCJ#82897.

Annotation

H.R. 4178, a Federal bill to counter auto theft, is assessed by a representative of the U.S. Justice Department.

Abstract

Title II is the cornerstone of H.R. 4178. It is the essential preventative aspect of the bill. In requiring identification numbers on the major components of the motor vehicle, a necessary tool is given law enforcement in its efforts to convict those involved in the dismantling of stolen cars and the selling of their parts. The bill's provision for the development of Federal standards to improve ignition locking systems is also an important step in theft prevention. The most important feature of Title III is the application of the Rackateer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act to professional auto theft rings. The forfeiture provisions of this act can convince businessmen not to traffic in stolen motor vehicles and their parts. Section 501 of Title V calls for a study by the Attorney General of the 'off-highway' vehicle theft problem (heavy machinery, farm equipment, etc.). While there has been some objection to this provision in the absence of hard statistics showing this to be a significant problem, the estimate that this form of theft involves more than $500 million a year requires that it be studied. Appended are recommended changes in three areas of Title II and a list of 10 questions and answers about H.R. 4178.