The Auto Channel
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
Official Website of the New Car Buyer

December Tip Pushes HEAT to $40 Million in Recovered Stolen Vehicles and Property

LIVONIA, Mich., Jan. 4, 2005 -- A telephone tip received by HEAT (Help Eliminate Auto Thefts) in December led to the recovery of approximately $24,000 in stolen automobiles and parts from a Detroit chop shop. This latest bust pushed the 20-year-old program to more than $40 million in total recovered property.

"HEAT links people in our communities who have information about auto theft and insurance fraud directly with law enforcement through our confidential tip line," said Terri Miller, director of HEAT. "Recovering more than $40 million in stolen property is a milestone accomplishment, and the result of many years of teamwork, leadership and commitment to sustaining a unique partnership between the insurance industry, law enforcement and citizen activists."

The December tip led police to the location of a suspected chop shop, and to the recovery of multiple stolen vehicles and parts, a total of $24,000 in recovered property. Three suspects were arrested.

From 1985 through 2003, HEAT paid out awards on tips that led to the prosecutions of 84 auto theft rings, 216 chop shops, 140 car jackings and 55 fraudulent car thefts, among other crimes. The HEAT program is a private initiative funded by Michigan's auto insurance companies.

Miller pointed out that HEAT's success is due to the hundreds of law enforcement officers who not only work on the tips but also pass along the HEAT tip-line number as they investigate complaints.

"HEAT is a program where ordinary people can make a positive contribution and help their communities. The more people who know that they can call in a tip and have their information kept confidential, the better we are able to make a positive impact on auto crimes in Michigan," Miller said.

About HEAT

Anyone with information on auto theft, carjacking, chop shops and auto insurance fraud in Michigan is encouraged to call the HEAT tip line, 1-800-242-HEAT, to provide a confidential report. HEAT works with Michigan law enforcement agencies to follow up on tips. Tipsters are awarded up to $1,000 if their tip leads to the arrest and prosecution of a suspected car thief or a person suspected of auto theft-related insurance fraud. Rewards of up to $10,000 are issued if a tip results in the arrest and binding over for trial of a suspected theft ring or chop shop operators. HEAT rewards up to $2,000 for information leading to the issuance of a warrant for a carjacking suspect. The HEAT tip line is monitored by the Michigan State Police and funded by Michigan's auto insurance companies.