LoJack System Helps San Bernardino Auto Theft Taskforce Recover Stolen Acura Integra, with multiple Arrests
- July 15, 2019
- Law Enforcement
The owners of a 1999 Acura Integra contacted the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department (SBSD) to report their vehicle stolen. SBSD Victorville verified the theft and entered the vehicle information into the state and federal crime computers, which automatically activated the LoJack® System concealed in the Acura.
Only two minutes later a SBSD Airship picked up the silent LoJack signal from the stolen Acura with the LoJack Police Tracking Computers (PTC) that are installed in patrol vehicles and aircraft. Following the directional and audible cues from the PTC, the airship tracked the Acura to a residence in Hesperia, which is next to Victorville. While orbiting over the location the SBSD Airship located the stolen Acura in the rear yard of the residence. They were also able to capture a license plate from a second vehicle, which came back to a stolen 2018 Ford Transit Van (valued at $35,000). Hesperia PD arrived at the location and set up a wide perimeter until San Bernardino County Auto Theft Task Force (SANCATT) could arrive and take over the investigation. SANCATT obtained a search warrant and served it at the location. Eight individuals were located in the residence, including one hiding in the attic.
During the search of the residence the investigators found credit card making equipment, evidence of identity theft, money making material, a stolen handgun, gun magazines, ammunition, and drugs. Another vehicle at the location was found to be outfitted with working emergency red/blue lights. The stolen Ford Transit van was loaded with industrial grade containers with fuel. It is believed the suspects were syphoning gas from other unsuspecting victims.
SANCATT arrested four of the eight individuals for various charges including the theft of the Acura. The undamaged Acura was released to the owner. Without the assist of LoJack it is unknown how many crimes the suspects would have continued to perpetrate.
The LoJack® System was installed in the Acura Integra in January 1999 at AutoNation Acura, Torrance CA.