Automobile thieves generally fall into one of three broad categories:Opportunist
: Typically "joy-riders" or transportation thieves
Defrauder: Owner abandons or "gives up" vehicle for the purpose of insurance fraud
Professional: Steals
vehicle to commit other crimes or for the purpose of resale (whole or parts).
Most motor vehicle thieves learn the trade from an older "mentor". The average "career" thief steals more than 100
cars! Statistics show that these criminals have one of the highest rates of recidivism. Unfortunately, the laws do not often fit the crime. Auto theft is often perceived as a victimless crime, which is paid
for by insurance. Of course, in the end, we all pay through higher insurance premiums.
While auto theft is a problem state wide, it is interesting to note that of all vehicles reported stolen in Pennsylvania, 48% were
stolen in Philadelphia. An additional 15% were stolen in the 4 counties surrounding Philadelphia. In western Pennsylvania, Allegheny County accounts for 16% of reported thefts. The rest of the state, including the
Central PA region accounts for remaining 20%.
