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Detective Melcher is responsible for investigating auto thefts, chop shops, vehicle fraud, insurance fraud, thefts of recreational vehicles and trailers. Other responsibilities include pro-active auto theft programs, auto theft prevention and awareness.
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Auto Theft Awareness
Every year in the City of Ogden approximately 315 vehicles are stolen. Auto theft is a big and profitable business occurring more often in large cities. According to the FBI crime statistics, a car is stolen every 23 seconds. The experienced car thief can steal the average car in less than a minute. In most cases the cars stolen in Ogden will be recovered, but will likely be stripped or damaged to some degree. Most cars are seemingly stolen for transportation, while others for the value of their parts. The most frequently stolen vehicles are the most popularly sold vehicles over the past decade.
In the summer months several vehicles are stolen from auto dealers, suspects use fraudulent identification or steal a key. Cars are also stolen during the commission of a vehicle burglary when a spare key was found, or your car may even be stolen by some one you may know.
There is an increase of auto thefts in the winter months because vehicles are left running and unattended to warm up.
Car thefts seem to occur with greater frequency where large groups of cars are parked for extended periods of time in places such as shopping centers, colleges, sporting events, movie complexes, and large apartment complexes. Car thefts occur at random on different days of the week and times of the day, depending on the locations.
Tips you can use to avoid being the victim of a car thief:
- Never leave your car running and unattended, even to dash into a home, business, store.
- Never leave any keys in the car or ignition, hidden in the car or inside a hide-a-key box.
- Always roll up your windows and lock the car, even if it is parked in front of your home.
- Never leave valuables in plain view, even if your car is locked. Put them in the trunk.
- Always park in high-traffic, well-lighted areas, when possible.
- Install a mechanical device that locks the steering wheel, column, or brakes.
- Investigate the purchase of a vehicle theft tracking/security system.
- Never leave personal identification documents, vehicle ownership title, or credit cards in your car.
- Keep a copy of the license plate number and (VIN) number with you incase your car is stolen.
- If your car is stolen report it to the police immediately.
Remember, there is no guarantee that your car will not be stolen, but taking precautionary measures can minimize your chances of becoming the victim of auto theft.
WHAT TO DO IF YOUR CAR IS STOLEN
- Check to see if your vehicle was repossessed, privately towed by a property owner or towed by the police department. You can check the attached link to query the state tax impound search.
- Call the police department with the description of the vehicle to include the license plate number, (VIN) number, make, model, color and any distinguishing characteristics.
- Look for any possible witnesses, check with your neighbors, if you were at a business check for any video they may have when the police arrive.
- The owner of the vehicle must complete an affidavit of theft and be willing to co-operate in the investigation. If the vehicle is reported stolen you must be willing to pursue charges and testify in court.
After the report is filed continue to help look for your vehicle. Notify Detective Melcher of any new information or possible leads.
Once your vehicle is recovered you may be requested to respond to the scene to retrieve your vehicle. If you are not able to respond the vehicle will be towed for safe keep at your own expense.
If you have any questions regarding the investigation of your vehicle contact Detective Melcher at the phone number or e-mail address provided.
Attached are links to the Department of Motor Vehicles which may be helpful with other questions regarding your vehicle.
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AUTO THEFT LINKS
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