Live Video Monitoring Leads to Vehicle Tampering Charges for Dealership Trespasser

Auto dealerships are increasingly grappling with thefts and break-ins, a trend that has been on the rise recently and looks to be continuing into 2024. These incidents not only lead to the direct loss of vehicles- but highlight a variety of other security challenges that dealerships have to contend with. 

A significant number of auto thefts and break-ins have been reported at dealerships across different regions. For instance, in Northeast Ohio, a series of break-ins at various dealerships led to the arrest of four suspects after a police pursuit. Similarly, in North Carolina, a dealership experienced the theft of six cars valued at nearly half a million dollars, including high-end models like Dodge Challenger Hellcats and a Corvette. These incidents indicate a pattern of organized crime targeting valuable vehicles at dealerships, and they’re far from the only examples.

The impacts of thefts like these go beyond the immediate loss of inventory. Dealerships are also facing challenges in securing their properties against vandalism, fraudulent insurance claims, and other risks that can be costly and damage their business reputation. With this in mind, improving dealership security has become a priority for many. 

To mitigate these risks, several steps can be taken. In our experience, installing a robust video surveillance system can be a key deterrent against theft and vandalism. This is complemented by improving lighting in and around the dealership, which not only enhances the effectiveness of surveillance cameras but also acts as a deterrent by itself. Using vehicle GPS systems to monitor the cars on the lot can alert dealership owners if a vehicle is moved without authorization. 

Securing keys and fobs is another critical measure, as they are often targeted by thieves to facilitate vehicle theft. Creating physical barriers or roadblocks, especially for tow trucks, can prevent the easy removal of vehicles from the lot. Additionally, employing a strict sign-out process for vehicle keys and implementing video alarms can further strengthen security. 

At roughly a quarter after 11:00 pm, a Stealth monitoring operator was alerted to suspicious activity onsite at an automotive dealership. A closer look revealed an intruder on the property who began pulling on vehicle door handles. The observing security professional activated onsite audible warnings and contacted local police dispatch to inform them of the activity in progress. While waiting for police to arrive, the suspect was observed entering a grey SUV onsite. Responding officers were notified via dispatchers of the suspect’s location and were able to successfully make contact with and take the suspect into custody. The intruder was charged with vehicle tampering and was removed from the property without further incident. 

Help Stop Suspicious and Unwanted Activity in its Tracks with Proactive Security 

With catalytic converter thefts still at alarming levels, high-performance vehicles being routinely targeted by criminal organizations and increasingly sophisticated thieves, and brazen thieves taking bolder steps to take high value inventory from dealerships across the US and Canada, it’s no surprise that security solutions for beleaguered owners and operators have become a bigger priority than ever.  

At Stealth, we understand that discerning between a potential customer and a potential burglar on your dealership lot requires a level of subtlety that goes beyond traditional security systems. Commonplace systems with alarms often have trouble differentiating between harmless and harmful intentions, potentially deterring genuine customers, or triggering unnecessary police responses due to false alarms. 

Our solution, Stealth’s proactive live video monitoring, helps to address these challenges. It harnesses a blend of advanced technology and human expertise. Our analytics-driven cameras are thoughtfully positioned across your property, covering crucial areas such as entry and exit points, service lanes, and more. These cameras are engineered to detect actual activities, not just simple movements. 

Once an activity is detected, it is immediately flagged for our skilled security professionals at our remote monitoring center. There, they assess the situation to determine if it warrants intervention. This approach ensures that casual visitors exploring your inventory remain undisturbed, while potential intruders are swiftly identified. For instance, if someone is seen attempting to tamper with car doors, like in the video above, they can be promptly dissuaded through onsite speakers, informing them that they are under surveillance. 

In situations where verbal warnings are ignored, our operators are equipped to contact local police dispatch with real-time details of the suspicious activity. Providing live descriptions of suspects, their locations, and their actions, generally results in our calls being prioritized, leading to quicker police response times. Law enforcement officers are aware that our alerts are credible and not false alarms, often resulting in timely arrests while the suspect is still in the vicinity. 

For dealerships interested in enhancing their security while potentially reducing costs by up to 60% compared to traditional guard services, our innovative, tailor-made security solutions offer a compelling option. Contact us and consult with an automotive dealership security specialist for a free quote today. 

Texas Private Security License Number: B14187
California Alarm Operator License Number: ACO7876
Florida Alarm System Contractor I License Number: EF20001598
Tennessee Alarm Contracting Company License Number: 2294
Virginia Private Security Services Business License Number: 11-19499
Alabama Electronic Security License # 002116
Canada TSBC License: LEL0200704