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The LAPDonline.org® website has made reasonable efforts to provide an accurate translation. However, no automated or computerized translation is perfect and is not intended to replace human or traditional translation methods. The official text is the English version of the LAPDonline.org® website. If any questions arise concerning the accuracy of the information presented by the translated version of the website, please refer to the English edition of the website, which is the official version.
Taskforce for Regional Autotheft Prevention (TRAP)
The Cargo Theft/Hijack Unit is responsible for investigating, on a Citywide basis, the thefts or hijacks of commercial vehicles transporting merchandise when the cargo is the object of the theft or hijack, and stolen trucks (five-ton capacity or larger) and trailers.
The Taskforce for Regional Autotheft Prevention (TRAP) is Los Angeles County’s regional, multi-jurisdictional, multi-agency taskforce that investigates, prosecutes and deters vehicle theft and vehicle fraud on a coordinated and cooperative basis. It is authorized by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, and administered through the Countywide Criminal Justice Coordinating Committee with cooperation from the Los Angeles County Chiefs of Police. TRAP has been highly successful in combating vehicle theft and vehicle fraud by focusing on organized rings and illegal business operations.
TRAP is dedicated to informing the public about common auto theft schemes and recent investigations. This site will contain little known facts about how thieves and smuggling rings ply their illicit trade and provides insight into their modus operandi. It is the Department's hope that the public will take advantage of this timely and late breaking information to protect themselves and their property through the knowledge and street sense provided on the site.
For information regarding the Taskforce call 213-626-572-5610 or 800-299-TRAP (8727).
The following stories are composites of actual cases handled by the detectives assigned to the Taskforce for Regional Autotheft Prevention (TRAP) in Los Angeles County. In all cases, the victims were caught unaware by criminals who used fraudulent means and theft to undercut legitimate private sellers for their own illegal profit.
If you have questions or information for detectives regarding autotheft call the TRAP Taskforce at (213) 847-3788 or visit the National Insurance Crime Bureau website.
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