ARIZONA AUTO THEFT AUTHORITY
DRIVING DOWN AUTO THEFT
IN ARIZONA
2013 ANNUAL REPORT
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Table of Contents
Letter to the Governor ......................................................................................4
AATA Board of Directors .................................................................................5
Agency Overview ..............................................................................................6
Motor Vehicle Theft in Arizona – Current Trends .................................... 7-12
2013 Programs & Accomplishments ...................................................... 13-19
Impact of AATA on Motor Vehicle Insurance Costs .................................... 19
Financial Report…………………………………………………………………20-21
Special Thanks & Recognition ...................................................................... 22
Arizona Automobile Theft
Authority - Mission Statement
To deter vehicle theft through a statewide cooperative effort by supporting
law enforcement activities, vertical prosecution, and public education &
prevention programs.
AATA Staff
Brian R. Salata
Executive Director
Arthur Myer Ann Armstrong Sgt. Terence Starner
Chief Financial Officer Public Affairs Officer Az. DPS- assigned to AATA
4
Letter to the Governor
The Honorable Janice K. Brewer
Governor of Arizona
1700 West Washington
Phoenix, AZ 85007
Dear Governor Brewer:
It is my pleasure to share with you the continued success of the Arizona Automobile
Theft Authority (AATA).
Last year, Arizona experienced another year of declining auto theft rates with 19,158
total stolen cars in 2012; a less than 1% decrease from 2011 and the tenth (10th)
consecutive year for a decrease.
Overall, Arizona ranks sixth (6
th
) in the nation for vehicle thefts per capita (theft rate per
100,000 population) and ninth (9th) for total stolen vehicles. In 2012, the Phoenix MSA
(Metropolitan Statistical Area), which had the dubious distinction of ranking the #1 “Hot
Spot” just over ten years ago, plunged down the list to 70
th
place. Tucson, which
previously held the #2 spot, fell to #44 during that period; Yuma remained #119.
The AATA credits the continued decline to a variety of factors including aggressive,
results-oriented approaches by the Arizona Vehicle Theft Task Force, statewide law
enforcement agencies and County prosecutors. New technologies like bait cars, license
plate readers and theft deterrent/recovery systems along with proactive public
awareness programs have also contributed to the decreases. Overall, Arizona
consumers are impacted by reduced insurance rates and personal and financial
victimization.
The insurance industry has also been a vital partner in Arizona’s fight to combat auto
theft and related crimes across our state. The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB),
insurance companies and their investigators are all working together with law
enforcement agencies to tackle the insurance fraud aspect of auto theft investigations.
The AATA pledges to continue effective auto theft reduction programs and strategies
across the state and looks forward to continued service to the citizens of Arizona.
Respectfully,
Dean C. Butler
Board Chairman
Arizona Automobile Theft Authority
5
AATA Board of Directors –
The AATA Board of Directors includes twelve (12) members, appointed by the Governor and
other organizations; representatives include: two police chiefs, two sheriffs, two county
attorneys, two insurance industry representatives, two members of the general public, and the
Directors of the Arizona Department of Public Safety and Arizona Motor Vehicle Division.
Dean C. Butler
Chairman
Farmers Insurance
Chief Daniel G. Sharp
Vice-Chairman
Oro Valley Police Department
Sheriff Joe Arpaio Sheriff Paul Babeu
Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office Pinal County
Joe Brosius Director Robert Halliday
Public Member Az. Dept. of Public Safety
Chief Roy Minter Bill Montgomery
M Peoria Police Department Maricopa County Attorney
Matt Reed Mary Snider
State Farm Insurance Public Member
Director Stacey K. Stanton M. Lando Voyles
Arizona Motor Vehicle Division Pinal County Attorney
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Agency Overview
The Arizona Automobile Theft Authority (AATA) was established by the Arizona Legislature in
1992 to create a statewide effort to reduce auto theft. The AATA is funded through semi-annual
assessments of over 400 insurance companies doing business in Arizona and uses no tax
dollars.
The foresight of the Arizona Legislature in creating the AATA has placed Arizona as the leader
in methodology and effective results in combating vehicle theft. The AATA serves as a unique
example of a public/private and consumer partnership and is viewed as a national and
international model for effective and sustainable auto theft reduction strategies.
The agency is governed by a 12-member Board of Directors, appointed by the Governor,
statute, or law enforcement organizations. The AATA has a 4-member staff responsible for
executing the Agency’s strategic plan, including statewide auto theft reduction programs as well
as grant funding, program review & compliance. Last year the Arizona Legislature passed
Senate Bill 1042, which continues the AATA for ten additional years (July 1, 2022).
The AATA functions as the lead organization in a statewide network of law enforcement,
criminal justice and community partners working together to combat auto theft crimes across
Arizona. By focusing resources in enforcement/investigative units, prosecution efforts, and
aggressive public education programs, the AATA and its statewide law enforcement partners
have impacted the state’s auto theft rate. Through its leadership, the AATA has been able to
break down barriers of jurisdictional lines and place resources in targeted areas. The agency
has implemented a methodology of cutting edge strategies, utilizing the latest technology, and
constantly re-evaluating the fluid nature of the criminal organizations that dominate the vehicle
theft problem in Arizona.
7
Motor Vehicle Theft in Arizona –
Current Trends
In 2012, Arizona saw the number of auto thefts fall for the 10
th
consecutive year, to a low of
19,158 stolen vehicles.
Arizona currently ranks sixth (6
th
) in the United States for vehicle thefts per capita, behind the
District of Columbia, California, Washington, Nevada and Oklahoma; ninth (9th) in the nation for
total number of vehicle thefts behind California, Texas, Florida, Georgia, Washington, Illinois,
Michigan and Ohio.
Nationwide in 2012, there were an estimated 721,053 vehicle thefts, a slight increase of 0.6%
from 2011 figures and the first increase in eight years. The peak year for vehicle theft in the
United States was 1991, with 1,661,738 stolen cars, which reflects a decrease of more than
50% since 1991 with many states seeing even better numbers. More than $4.3 billion was lost
nationwide to motor vehicle theft in 2011; over $95 million economic loss for the State of
Arizona.
The nature of auto theft in Arizona has significantly changed over the past decade. As an
agency, the AATA remained flexible and adaptable to stay ahead of the changing nature of
vehicle theft in our State. To understand the nature of vehicle theft in Arizona, one must first
recognize that it is primarily a crime of facilitation. Much of the smuggling, trafficking, and violent
crime in Arizona is facilitated by the use of stolen vehicles in the commission of these crimes.
Stolen vehicles are often used to smuggle weapons and cash proceeds of crime out of Arizona;
while also being used to smuggle and transport drugs and humans into and though the State.
In Arizona, the theft of motor vehicles is commonly associated with various forms of organized
crime. The Mexican drug cartels, motorcycle gangs, organized fraud rings and street gangs, to
name a few, are heavily involved in vehicle theft. Vehicles are stolen for a variety of reasons
beyond the facilitation of other crimes. Some stolen automobiles are sold here and abroad as an
allegedly legitimate vehicle after having the vehicles’ identity changed (VIN switched or cloned),
while other vehicles are dismantled or sold for their scrap value.
Auto theft has increasing become a transnational crime. Vehicles stolen in Arizona are often
destining for foreign countries; crossing the border to our south or in shipping containers sent
out of state to port cities. The Secretary General of INTERPOL, Ronald K. Noble, recently
stated regarding auto theft that the “gamut of this transnational crime is, as we all know, [goes]
well beyond just the vehicles from one country being stolen and then sold in another. From acts
of terrorism to trafficking in human beings, weapon or drugs, vehicle crime touches nearly all
forms of serious crime.”
The Arizona Vehicle Theft Task Force and the law enforcement partners of the AATA are
diligently working to disrupt the organized crime associated with auto theft. The insurance
industry has also been a vital partner in Arizona’s fight to combat auto theft and related crimes
across our state. The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), insurance companies and their
investigators are all working together with law enforcement agencies to tackle the insurance
fraud aspect of auto theft.
8
Last year, the Phoenix MSA (Metropolitan Statistical Area), once ranked #1 “Hot Spot”
just over ten years ago, plunged down the list to 70
th
place. Tucson, which previously
held the #2 spot, fell to #44 during that period; Yuma #119.
2012 Hot Spots - Top 10 MSA’s with the highest vehicle theft rates:
2012 Ranking 2010 Ranking
1. Modesto, CA. 2
2. Fresno, CA. 1
3. Bakersfield, CA. 3
4. Stockton/Lodi, CA. 7
5. Yakima, Wash. 5
6. San Francisco/Oakland/Hayward, CA. 6
7. San Jose/Sunnyvale/Santa Clara, CA. 20
8. Vallejo/Fairfield, CA. 9
9. Spokane/Spokane Valley, WA. 4
10. Redding, CA. 40
___________________________________________________________
70. Phoenix/Mesa/Glendale, AZ 60
44. Tucson, AZ 37
119. Yuma, AZ 119
*Source: National Insurance Crime Bureau 2013 “Hot Spots Report.”
2012 Hot Wheels – Most Stolen Vehicles List
A new feature in NICB’s Hot Wheels Report this year is the addition of a list of the top 25
model year 2012 vehicles that were most stolen in calendar year 2012.
The top 10 on this list are:
1. Nissan Altima
2. Chevrolet Impala
3. Chevrolet Malibu
4. Toyota Camry
5. Ford Fusion
6. Ford Pickup (Full Size)
7. Ford Focus
8. Chrysler
9. Dodge Charger
10. Dodge Avenger
*Source: National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) – August 2013
Top 10 Most Stolen Vehicles
–
2012
Arizona
1. 1994 Honda Accord
2. 1997 Honda Civic
3. 2001 Chevrolet Pickup
4. 2006 Ford Pickup
5. 2004 Dodge Pickup
6. 1994 Nissan Sentra
7. 1997 Nissan Altima
8. 1991 Toyota Camry
9. 1995 Nissan Standard Body Pickup
10. 1996 Nissan Maxima
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10
Motor Vehicle Theft in Arizona – Current Trends
The AATA attributes the continued decline to a combination of factors including new
technologies like bait cars, proactive law enforcement strategies, and multi-agency cooperation.
Vehicle owner-applied theft deterrent and recovery systems are also delivering outstanding
results. The coordinated and sustained efforts by the AATA and statewide law enforcement to
attack the complex issue of auto theft from several different angles are also delivering
successful results.
Stolen vehicles are also taken to “chop shops,” where vehicles are stripped and component parts are sold to
unsuspecting buyers, or unscrupulous auto repair shops. Thieves also attempt to conceal the identity of
stolen vehicles by “VIN-switching” with wrecked or salvaged vehicles and then sell them to unsuspecting
buyers. VIN cloning is a growing national problem. This crime is similar to ID theft where the identity (VIN #)
of a good vehicle is taken and used to conceal the true identity of a stolen vehicle of an identical make and
model. These vehicles are then titled in another state and sold to an unsuspecting victim. This is a crime
that can be prevented through the use of a system called, NMVTIS (National Motor Vehicle Title Information
System), which Arizona participates in and allows states to instantly and reliably verify information on the
paper title with the electronic data from the state that issued the title.
A continuing trend is the theft of vehicles for the scrap metal value. Vehicles are stolen and delivered to
scrap metal dealers, where the vehicles are crushed and/or shredded simply for the (nominal) value of the
scrap metal. The vehicles are destroyed without title or other documentation. Unscrupulous scrap dealers
are conspiring with or facilitating auto thieves in Arizona to make quick profit from the stolen vehicles that
disappear without a trace. The AATA, Arizona Vehicle Theft Task Force and law enforcement agencies are
implementing new strategies to combat this growing trend.
Vehicles are also stolen and smuggled out of the country; stolen vehicles from the U.S. and other affluent
countries end up in Asia, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, Mexico, Central and South America. The
moderate recovery rate (63%) of stolen vehicles is an indicator of organized criminal activity and the
exportation of stolen vehicles. Additionally, Interpol, the international intelligence community, has identified
vehicle theft and related criminal activity, including insurance fraud, as one of the primary funding sources
international terrorism.
Apache
12
0%
Cochise
196
1%
Coconino
115
1%
Gila
55
0%
Graham
21
0%
Greenlee
4
0%
La Paz
54
0%
Maricopa
11,700
67%
Mohave
444
3%
Navajo
88
1%
Pima
3,599
21%
Pinal
579
3%
Santa Cruz
72
0%
Yavapai
223
1%
Yuma
371
2%
2012 Arizona Vehicle Thefts by County - *2012 AZ. DPS Crime in AZ Report
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State
2012 Total Vehicle
Thefts
State
2012 Vehicle Theft Rate (Per 100,000
Population
California 168,608
Dist. of Columbia
579.0
Texas 64,996
California 443.2
Florida 37,330
Washington 382.8
Georgia 28,536
Nevada 363.1
Washington 26,402
Oklahoma 303.1
Illinois 25,690
Arizona
292.3
Michigan 25,115
Georgia 287.7
Ohio 19,512
South Carolina 279.5
Arizona
19,158
Missouri 270.8
New York 17,348
New Mexico 261.9
New Jersey 16,481
Oregon 261.7
Missouri 16,308
Hawaii 258.9
North Carolina 16,120
Maryland 255.3
Pennsylvania 15,028
Michigan 254.1
Maryland 15,025
Rhode Island 250.2
Indiana 13,661
Texas 249.4
South Carolina 13,201
Kansas 234.9
Tennessee 12,980
Colorado 233.1
Colorado 12,092
Nebraska 223.5
Oklahoma 11,564
Utah 210.1
Oregon 10,203
Indiana 209.0
Nevada 10,018
Alaska 208.1
Alabama 9,874
Alabama 204.8
Massachusetts 9,232
Tennessee 201.0
Virginia 9,076
Illinois 199.5
Minnesota 8,458
Arkansas 194.1
Wisconsin 8,216
Florida 193.2
Louisiana 7,881
New Jersey 185.9
Kansas 6,778
Connecticut 179.6
Kentucky 6,668
Louisiana 171.3
Connecticut 6,449
Ohio 169.0
Utah 5,999
Montana 168.0
Puerto Rico 5,847
North Carolina 165.3
Arkansas 5,724
North Dakota 164.5
New Mexico 5,463
Puerto Rico 159.4
Mississippi 4,322
Minnesota 157.2
Nebraska 4,147
Delaware 156.6
Iowa 4,023
Kentucky 152.2
Dist. of Columbia
3,661
Mississippi 144.8
Hawaii 3,605
Wisconsin 143.5
Rhode Island 2,628
Massachusetts 138.9
West Virginia 2,209
Iowa 130.9
Montana 1,689
South Dakota 127.8
Alaska 1,522
West Virginia 119.1
Delaware 1,436
Pennsylvania 117.7
Idaho 1,364
Virginia 110.9
North Dakota 1,151
Wyoming 101.3
South Dakota 1,065
New York 88.6
New Hampshire 1,023
Idaho 85.5
Maine 995
New Hampshire 77.5
Wyoming 584
Maine 74.9
Vermont 435
Vermont 69.5
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The AATA remains diligent despite the continued reduction in vehicle thefts. Arizona’s
proximity to Mexico mandate employing partnerships on a national and international level
to curtail vehicle theft by organized criminal groups. These partnerships deter exportation
of stolen vehicles and the myriad criminal activity financed by organized vehicle theft.
Arizona stolen vehicles are utilized in every level of criminal activity from the street thieves,
to local criminal organizations, to the interstate and international syndicates. Many of the
stolen vehicles that make their way to the Arizona/Mexico border or into Mexico are
utilized to facilitate the drug trafficking and human smuggling/trafficking trades. The
cartels and syndicates engaged in smuggling have a need for high capacity and durable
vehicles. Vehicles are selected based upon their ability to haul “heavy cargo” --- large
amounts of drugs and/or people.
Two people attempting to enter the U.S. in southern Arizona Stolen F-250 from Phoenix – Recovered in desert south of
ended up fleeing to Mexico when their vehicle became Hidden Valley, AZ
stuck on top of the border fence.
Photo courtesy: U.S. Border Patrol
In FY13, the AATA continued to focus a majority of its resource allocation ($3,064,000 or
72.6% of total budget) to the AZ. Vehicle Theft Task Force (AVTTF), for its continued
statewide enforcement and investigative efforts. Since 2000, the AATA also has provided
annual grant funding to law enforcement agencies and county attorney offices across
Arizona. AATA funded programs are currently located in counties which account for 91% of
the state’s auto theft problem.
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A continuing trend across the U.S., is the percentage of vehicles stolen and recovered
dropping to a 30-year low of 52%; the lowest since 1981. Arizona’s recovery rate remained
63% in 2012.
AATA’s 2013 Programs &
Accomplishments
AATA’s three strategic initiatives - law enforcement, aggressive (vertical) prosecution and
public education all work together to combat vehicle theft throughout Arizona. Since 2000, the
AATA has issued annual grant funding to law enforcement agencies across the state to proactively
combat auto theft in counties with the state’s highest auto theft rates.
The citizens of Arizona can expect that our State will remain on the forefront of combating vehicle
theft and the associated crime that has plagued our communities. The AATA, the Arizona Vehicle
Theft Task Force, and the AATA’s law enforcement partners continue to recognize the organized
crime and drug cartel impact on vehicle theft rates in Arizona and diligently battle the foundations of
this gateway crime.
The AATA has worked to provide statewide resources where they’ll have the greatest impact, while
paying attention to the needs of smaller communities in the State. Criminals are not constrained by
city limits or county lines. By taking a comprehensive statewide approach, working with local, county,
state and federal law enforcement agencies, the AATA is able to allocate funding dedicated to
combat vehicle theft in a strategic and tactical manner.
The AATA is in the developmental stages of programs, whereby investigative equipment for law
enforcement can be deployed to areas of the state where it is needed most, then re-deployed to
other areas as circumstances change. Equipment included in these programs consists of license
plate readers, magneto-optical VIN identification equipment, and bait cars.
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Law Enforcement Programs -
Arizona Vehicle Theft Task Force
A critical role in the AATA’s mission is to support proactive, law enforcement activities throughout
Arizona. Since 1997, the AATA has partnered with the Arizona Department of Public Safety, state,
local, and county law enforcement agencies to fund the Arizona Vehicle Theft Task Force, which is
the AATA’s largest annual grant recipient (70% of AATA’s Annual Budget).
The Arizona Vehicle Theft Task Force or “RATTLER” (Regional Auto Theft Team Law Enforcement
Response) serves as a statewide resource for the investigation of vehicle theft, chop shops,
insurance fraud, and the criminal organizations that employ auto theft as a means of facilitating
their criminal endeavors. The Task Force provides technical expertise, training and investigative
support to law enforcement agencies targeting vehicle theft and related crimes.
The Task Force is comprised of local, county, state,
and federal law enforcement agencies as well as
agents from the National Insurance Crime Bureau
participating in a concerted effort to identify,
apprehend, and prosecute individuals and criminal
organizations that profit from the theft of motor
vehicles and related crimes.
The Arizona Vehicle Theft Task Force is in the
process of re-establishing a squad of detectives
that will work along the international border
between the Arizona and Mexico. The Border
Squad is expected to be operational early in 2014.
AZ. VEHICLE THEFT TASK FORCE
FY’13 RESULTS
JULY – JUNE 2012-2013
Combined Activity Number Estimated Value
Stolen Vehicles Recovered 1,200 $13,450,045.00
Stolen Vehicle Locates 107*
*Since Dec. 2012
“Chop Shops” Investigated 23
Altered/Switched VIN’s 132
Felony Arrests 105
Adults 103
Juveniles 2
Insurance Fraud Cases 14
Business Inspections 75
Border Interdiction Programs 5
CORE Programs 0
Training Provided 17
Assists to Other Agencies 948
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Arizona’s Bait Car Program
Arizona’s Bait Car program began as a pilot AATA Grant project
in 2003 by a handful of Valley law enforcement agencies then
soon expanded across the state. Vehicles are donated by the
National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) and its member
companies, equipped with bait car systems funded by the AATA.
Bait cars are used by law enforcement agencies across the
United States and Canada and have proven to be an effective
tool in Arizona’s auto theft reduction strategy. Police Bait cars are
deployed in strategic locations by law enforcement agencies. After a bait car is stolen, the location
of the vehicle is monitored by police dispatchers through GPS tracking.
Bait Car technology has been evolving and changing over the past several years. Most bait car
systems employed in Arizona is derived from AATA grant funding. These systems generally work
in a manner that is run through a specific agencies dispatch. Each bait car is therefore tied to the
specific agency. Advances in Bait Car technology, in conjunction with other related advances in
GPS, wireless Bluetooth, geo-fencing, and countless technological developments, allow for a new
era of bait cars that are more effective and cost efficient.
The program continues to demonstrate successful results; as of December 2013, the program has
nearly 400 arrests since the program began. The AATA credits the program with helping drive
down Arizona’s auto theft rate to its lowest level since the mid-1990’s.
As Arizona’s Bait Car program marked its 10
th
anniversary in 2013, future plans include expanding
the fleet of Bait Cars across the entire state to be used by a multitude of law enforcement agencies
and thus increase the statewide impact of the limited resources available to the AATA.
License Plate Readers
License Plate Reader (LPR) technology is an important tool in the detection and apprehension of
auto thieves and has improved the success in the recovery of stolen vehicles. A single LPR system
has the capability of scanning thousands of plates on daily basis, sweeping parking lots, streets and
highways to identify and recover stolen vehicles. The LPR technology continues to improve and
operates in a manner that does not impact the privacy of individuals, but identifies license plates
that have been flagged as being associated with a stolen vehicle.
Future plans include strategies to make LPR
technology available throughout the state by
creating a fleet of mobile LPR’s and a reserve of
LPR equipment that can be used by a variety of
law enforcement agencies to increase statewide
impact.
Special Investigations
The AATA Special Investigations program is a new addition to the AATA’s approach to combating
vehicle theft, bridging an investigative void. The AATA is often the repository of information
involving vehicle theft. The AATA is frequently looked to for direction when a multi-jurisdictional
case arises and no agency takes the lead. Police departments from Arizona, other states and other
countries frequently contact the AATA with investigative inquiries about specific vehicles stolen in
Arizona and/or the crimes associated therewith. An AATA investigator analyzes the criminal activity
and acts as the conduit for the flow of information between involved jurisdictional law enforcement
agencies, developing an operational plan to combat the criminal activity. In addition, AATA
investigators may act as a liaison between law enforcement agencies needing specialized
assistance and the Arizona Vehicle Theft Task Force.
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Vertical Prosecution Program
Vertical Prosecution refers to the concept of utilizing dedicated, specially trained deputy county
attorneys to address all phases of the criminal justice process regarding vehicle theft, and
associated crimes, from the investigative phase through sentencing. The AATA has identified
vertical prosecution as a vital component of a comprehensive vehicle theft reduction strategy for
Arizona. Vertical Prosecution has been highly successful in dealing with other criminal activities
such as, homicide, narcotics, organized crime, sexual assault and crimes against children. The
AATA provides annual grant funding to the county attorney offices with the highest vehicle theft
rates.
In FY 13, the AATA’s Vertical Prosecution Program was expanded
in Maricopa and Pinal counties to include support staff for
increasing cases loads. Future plans include expanding the Vertical
Prosecution program to additional counties.
Some results of the Vertical Prosecution Program during 2013
for the Maricopa County Attorney’s Office, the AATA’s largest
Vertical Prosecution grant recipient, include:
Over 1,600 Submittals
28 Trials (25 guilty, 1 not guilty, 1 mistrial, and 1 hung jury)
Over 650 Plea Agreements reached
More than $670,000 in Restitution awarded by the court
Several notable auto theft cases include:
State v. Reeter (Maricopa County)
The defendant, who had prior felony convictions, was involved tin the sale of stolen trucks to an
undercover police officer. The case was particularly difficult to prosecute in that the vehicles all had
keys, the vehicles did not have the usual indicia of having been stolen, and one of the victims was
unavailable to testify at trial.
The defendant was convicted by a jury and was sentenced to 15 years in prison. Restitution to the
victims was ordered in the amount over $13,000.00.
State v. Recchia (Maricopa County)
Defendant(s) lured the victim to an apartment complex where he thought he was going to meet his
girlfriend. When he arrived he was robbed at gun and knife point. The victim’s wallet, car and other
property was stolen. Eventually, the victim was driven out to the desert in his car, where he was
left.
The defendant was convicted by a jury and sentenced to 11 years in prison.
State v. Mata (Maricopa County)
The victims, a mother and her 5 year old son, were in their car when the defendant approached
them with a gun. The defendant got into the back seat alongside the 5 year old and pointed the
gun at the mother; telling her to drive. After several miles, the defendant ordered the mother out of
her car. She was able to retrieve her son before the defendant drove off, stealing the vehicle.
The defendant was convicted by a jury and sentenced to 42 years in prison.
State v. Burns. (Pinal County)
Arizona Vehicle Theft Task Force Detectives received an anonymous tip regarding a stolen truck.
Detectives followed the truck to a parking lot where they positioned police vehicles directly in front
and behind the stolen truck driven by the defendant. The defendant rammed the police vehicles and
caused a detective on foot to jump out of the way to avoid being struck by the stolen vehicle. The
defendant, who was armed with two handguns, was also in possession of a large quantity of heroin,
methamphetamine, marijuana and cash.
The defendant plead guilty to two counts and was sentenced to 12 years in prison.
17
Professional Training Grants
One of the responsibilities of the AATA is to provide training to statewide law enforcement
agencies. The need for consistent, updated material to be instructed on a regular basis is an
important element in combating auto theft in our State. This year, the AATA co-hosted the Arizona
Auto Theft Investigators Association’s (AATIA) 2013 Training Seminar where over 150 attendees
received training on a variety of topics concerning auto theft related crimes, including current
trends, methods of theft, information about VIN numbers, titles and license plates, as well as heavy
equipment and all-terrain vehicle identification. The seminar also included an Award Ceremony for
AATA’s 2013 Award recipients, which included law enforcement, criminal justice, prosecution and
private sector partners who have demonstrated outstanding accomplishments in combating auto
theft in Arizona.
Public Education & Prevention
Public education and prevention remain an important component in the agencies strategy to
combat vehicle theft, however, the nature of AATA’s auto theft prevention programs has evolved
and shifted focus in recent years. The AATA has provides resources to law enforcement agencies
across the state to implement (and sustain) community-based public awareness programs.
The resources provided to law enforcement include equipment, literature and promotional items,
along with AATA manpower, which afford agencies the ability to target specific needs of their
community. The AATA has implemented ways to support these sustainable deterrence programs
in a more cost effective and efficient manner, leaving the bulk of grant funding available for law
enforcement and auto theft prosecution programs. Our goal is to empower Arizona vehicle owners
to protect and secure their vehicles and personal property.
Presently, the AATA engages in the following public awareness and auto theft prevention
programs:
Watch Your Car Program
The Watch Your Car program is one element of a “layered approach”
to protection recommended by the AATA to effectively deter vehicles
from being stolen. The Watch Your Car program is a voluntary
enrollment program designed to deter vehicle theft, assist in the
recovery of stolen vehicles, and apprehend auto thieves. After
enrolling and signing an application form, participants in the program
affix Watch Your Car decals to their vehicle, which authorizes law
enforcement officials to stop the vehicle between the program hours
of 1:00 AM and 5:00 AM when most vehicle thefts occur, or within
one mile of the international border. Enrollment forms are obtained
by contacting the AATA by phone or accessing the Agency’s web
site at www.azwatchyourcar.com. The Watch Your Car program is free and open to all citizens with
cars registered in the State of Arizona.
To promote the Watch Your Car program and other comprehensive vehicle theft prevention tips, the
AATA partners with criminal justice agencies throughout the State, participates in auto theft
prevention events and safety fairs as well as homeowners association and Block Watch meetings.
Information displays are also located at every Motor Vehicle Division and AAA Arizona Travel Office
statewide as well as at insurance company claims offices and apartment community rental
locations. As of December 2013, the AATA has approximately 50,000 vehicles enrolled in the
program.
The AATA’s public education and prevention efforts continue to focus on strategic partnerships and
collaborative efforts with community organizations, corporations and businesses, as well as criminal
justice agencies throughout Arizona. Last year, the AATA partnered with AAA, Arizona, AARP, the
Arizona Crime Prevention Association (ACPA), Maricopa County Attorney’s Office, Valley Metro,
SunWest Federal Credit Union and numerous corporations to promote vehicle theft and burglary
prevention programs.
18
VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) Etching Program
VIN etching involves marking the vehicle identification
number into the window glass of the vehicle, making the
vehicle less valuable to thieves who may want to steal it.
This also acts as a deterrent to chop shop operators and
provides a valuable means for law enforcement to identify
vehicles that have been VIN switched or cloned. The AATA
owns VIN etching equipment and supplies needed to
perform this service and regularly provides such to law
enforcement agencies across the State. The AATA also
sponsors VIN etching events that are conducted by agency
staff and volunteers.
SunWest Federal Credit Union Event with Goodyear PD, AATA & Auto Theft
Task Force Members – March 2013
Annual Auto Theft Prevention Week
The AATA sponsors the Annual Statewide Auto Theft Prevention Week during the
1
st
week in March in partnership with law enforcement agencies & community
partners by hosting auto theft prevention and/or VIN etching events in an effort to
increase awareness about auto theft/burglary prevention. Each year dozens of
police agencies sponsor auto theft prevention events during this week.
Youth Auto Theft Deterrent Programs
The AATA has developed Youth Deterrent Programs for middle school (“A Ride For Life: The
Consequences of Auto Theft”) and high school students (“Park Smart, New Driver”). The programs
are made available to educators, School Resource Officers (SRO’s) and community organizations
as a partnership to divert young offenders and promote auto theft prevention practices for new
drivers on the road.
Building Partnerships & Collaborative Efforts
The AATA continues to partner with community organizations, corporations and businesses,
including AAA Arizona, AARP, the Arizona Crime Prevention Association (ACPA), Arizona
Insurance Council, Valley Metro, and numerous others to promote auto theft and burglary
prevention. The AATA continues to conduct auto theft prevention presentations and provides
resources to residents at Multi-housing and rental communities. We continue to participate in auto
theft and ID theft prevention events featuring free VIN etching and secure document shredding.
19
Bait Car & Auto Theft Deterrent Signs
Several Arizona police departments and local
businesses have employed the use of signs in their
parking lot indicating it’s a “Bait Car Deployment
Area.” This not only serves as a deterrent to would-be
auto thieves, but also reminds vehicle owners to
protect themselves from becoming a victim of auto
theft.
Social Media Outreach & E-Communication Outreach
The AATA has incorporated E-Newsletters and web-based technology into our public
outreach efforts, along with Social Media including Facebook (Arizona Auto Theft
Authority) and Twitter (azautotheft) and YouTube (azautotheft2012).
The AATA’s website (www.azwatchyourcar.com) is maintained by staff with auto theft
related information, statistics, events, E-newsletters. Staff continues to promote on-line
Watch Your Car enrollment and web-based services for our customers.
20
Financial Report
For the Year Ended June 30, 2013
Arizona Automobile Theft Authority Fund
The Automobile Theft Authority Fund is a special revenue fund, which was established by the
Arizona Legislature and is the only operating fund of the Automobile Theft Authority. The AATA
does not receive any tax dollars or appropriations from the General Fund of the State of Arizona.
All revenues received by the Authority, including investment income and monetary gifts, are
deposited in the Automobile Theft Authority Fund. With the exception of grant awards to the
Authority, expenditures of the Authority are appropriated by the Legislature and paid from collected
monies in the Fund. The financial statements for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2013 of the AATA
have been audited by the accounting firm of Heinfeld, Meech & Co., P.C., Certified Public
Accountants in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and government auditing
standards. Their report gave an unqualified opinion of the Authority’s financial statements and their
report on compliance and internal controls stated, “We did not identify any deficiencies in internal
control over financial reporting that we consider to be material weaknesses.”
Revenue
The revenue of the AATA is derived from a statutory semi-annual assessment of 50 cents per
vehicle paid by each insurance company writing automobile liability coverage in Arizona on motor
vehicles weighing 26,000 pounds or less, gross vehicle weight (GVW). Current year revenue
collections from insurance assessments for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2013 were $ 5,332,073,
an increase of $67,968 or 1.29% from the prior year. All excess cash is invested with the State
Treasurer and the Authority earned $12,656 in investment income during the current fiscal year.
Expenditures
Total expenditures for the current year were $4,217,113, an increase of $16,087 from the total
expenditures from the previous year of $4,201,026. The Arizona Revised Statutes, A.R.S. §41-
3451.H requires that “The costs of administration shall not exceed ten percent of the monies in the
fund in any one year so that the greatest possible portion of the monies available to the authority is
expended on combating motor vehicle theft.” Accordingly, the Arizona Automobile Theft Authority
tightly controls its administrative costs. Administrative expenses of the Authority are limited by
statute and are not to exceed 10% of the revenue collected by the Authority. For the fiscal year
ending June 30, 2013, the Authority was in compliance with this statute with “costs of
administration” being 4.23%, of “the monies in the fund” as verified by the audit. The AATA’s
administrative costs for the fiscal year were 5.36% of total expenditures. The AATA ended the year
with cash and investments with the State Treasurer of $1,503,030.
Revenue Forecast
The AATA reviewed the revenue collection trends for several of the previous years. With two
collection periods per fiscal year the collection data was analyzed from period to period, as well as
fiscal year to fiscal year. This analysis showed a dramatic drop in the rate of revenue increase from
FY’06-FY’10. The rate of revenue growth has increased slightly in FY’11, FY’12 and FY13.
Therefore, in going forward the AATA was very cautious in its revenue projections, for the fiscal
year ending June 30, 2014 the agency projects revenue growth of .60%, this means that the
anticipated revenue in the next fiscal year should be approximately $5,364,064, ($31,992 above the
revenue received in the current fiscal year). Going forward, the agency expects revenue to
increase slightly (approximately .75%) for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2015. Other factors that
were considered in making revenue projections include the state of the economy and population
growth. Also the AATA reviews each assessment submitted by an insurance company and verifies
statutory compliance.
21
Arizona Auto Theft Authority Fund
Statement of Operations by Program for the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2013
June 30
,
20
12
June
30
, 2013
Revenue
Current Year Collections 5,264,105
5,332,073
Prior Year Collections -
-
Investment Income 8,674
12,656
Grants -
-
Refund of Unused Grant Funds 5,113
2,720
Total Cash Collections 5,277,892
5,347,449
Revenue Accrued at June 30th 33,944
97,084
Total Revenue $5,311,836
$5,444,533
Expenditure by Program
Administrative Costs (1,2) 243,488
226,021
Arizona Vehicle Theft Task Force Grant 3,000,000
3,064,000
Vertical Prosecution Program 330,119
382,017
Public Awareness /Programs 289,326
208,825
Public Awareness Grant Program -
-
Law Enforcement Grant Program 89,087
73,878
Professional Training & Special Grant Program
20,370
15,274
Emergency/Discretionary Grant Program
228,636
71,262
Investigator Projects -
175,836
Auto Theft Events -
-
Miscellaneous -
-
Total Expenditures (3) 4,201,026
4,217,113
Transfer to Primary Government 890,500
Excess of Expenditures Over Revenues 220,310
1,227,420
Beginning Fund Balance (4,5) 2,893,729
3,114,039
Ending Fund Balance (4,5) $3,114,039
$4,341,459
Footnotes
1. Administrative Costs as a Percentage of Cash Collections 4.61%
4.23%
2. Administrative Costs as a Percentage of Total Expenditures 4.78%
5.36%
3. Actual Expenditures by Category per Audited Financial Statements
Appropriated Current Operating Expenses
Personal Services 236,624
284,957
Employee related expenses 101,875
108,913
Professional services 8,536
14,507
Travel-in-State 2,837
3,819
Travel-out-State 291
6,905
Aid to Organizations 3,669,250
3,606,431
Other Operating 113,288
114,427
Equipment 68,325
77,154
Total Expenditures $4,201,026
$4,217,113
Non-appropriated Expenses
Other Travel
-
Miscellaneous
-
Auto Theft Events -
-
Total Non-appropriated Expenditures
-
4&5. Fund balance includes accrued income as per the audited financial statements
Tot
al
Expenditures
$4,201,026
$4,217,113
Cash invested with the State Treasurer as of June 30
th
$ 365,373 $ 1,503,030
Report based on audited financial statements
22
Special Thanks -
The Arizona Automobile Theft Authority Board of
Directors and Staff would like to thank the
following individuals and organizations for their
continued support and assistance.
Arizona Auto Theft Investigators Association (AATIA)
International Association of Auto Theft Investigators (IAATI)
National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB)
Policia International Arizona-Sonora (PISA)
Arizona Insurance Council (AIC)
Rep. Adam Kwasman, Arizona House of Representatives
Alberto Gutier, Director, Governor’s Office of Highway Safety
Captain Bruce Campbell, AZ DPS/Arizona Vehicle Theft Task Force
Lt. Colonel Timothy Chung, AZ. DPS/Arizona Vehicle Theft Task Force
Ralph Lumpkin, National Insurance Crime Bureau
Sheriff Mark J. Dannels, Cochise County Sheriff
Dessi Galatti, Intern, PVCC/Northern Arizona University
Ryan Leliefeld, Intern, Arizona State University
J.D. Hough, AATA Special Investigations
Eric Billings, Analyst, Joint Legislative Budget Committee
John Blackburn, Jr. Executive Director, Arizona Criminal Justice Commission
Major Larry Scarber, Arizona Department of Public Safety
Scott Blum, Auto Theft Bureau Chief, Maricopa County Attorney’s Office
Jeff Parr, Pinal County Attorney’s Office
Tim Gaffney, Pinal County Sheriff’s Office
Mary Curfman, AZ. DPS/Arizona Vehicle Theft Task Force
Nicole Farr, Arizona Insurance Council
Scott Selin, Analyst, Governor’s Office of Strategic Planning & Budgeting
Jill Hall, Analyst, Governor’s Office of Strategic Planning & Budgeting
Kerry Hayden, Farmers Insurance Company
Annette Jacobs, President, AZ. Auto Theft Investigators Association (Phoenix PD)
Emily James, GAO, Central Services Bureau
Steve Jimenez, AZ.DPS/Arizona Vehicle Theft Task Force
Kim Kelly, Gilbert Police Department
MaryJo Kuzmick, Gilbert Police Department
Major Jack Lane, AZ. DPS/Arizona Vehicle Theft Task Force (Retired)
Detective Lan Lee, ADOT/Arizona Vehicle Theft Task Force
Sgt. Brandon Luth, Maricopa County Sheriff’s Office
Sgt. Jodie Martinez, Mesa Police Department
Detective Ryan Barnhart, Gilbert Police Department
Detective Garth McClellan, Gilbert Police Department
Peter R. Perrien, President, IAATI, New Orleans P.D. (Retired)
Vickie Owen, Gilbert Police Department
Bobby Owens, National Insurance Crime Bureau
Frank Scafidi, National Insurance Crime Bureau
Rich Spallinger, National Insurance Crime Bureau
Nancy Temporado, AZ. DPS/Arizona Vehicle Theft Task Force
Tony Wilcox, State of Arizona, Information Services Division
Thank you to the state’s criminal justice agencies for their continued participation in the
Arizona Vehicle Theft Task Force and partnership with the Arizona Automobile Theft
Authority.
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Arizona Automobile Theft Authority
1400 W. Washington Street, Suite 270
Phoenix, AZ 85007
Tel: (602) 364-2886 (AUTO)
Fax: (602) 364-2897
Toll Free 1-888-668-4433
Website: www.azwatchyourcar.com
An Equal Employment Opportunity Agency
State of Arizona
Arizona Automobile Theft Authority
@Copyright 2013
The Copyright to all content of this report is held by the Arizona Automobile Theft Authority, except as indicated otherwise.
All rights are reserved.
The report was prepared and produced entirely by AATA Staff.
