Cincinnati police are asking for backup from the public after a tow-truck driver allegedly used a distinctive rig to steal several vehicles in the Roselawn neighborhood.
The thefts happened Feb. 12 on Section Road near Reinhold Drive, where investigators say the same tow truck pulled up to parked cars, hooked them and hauled them away. Many owners only realized their vehicles were gone later that day, according to WKRC Local 12. Detectives are now looking for any camera footage or tips that could help them identify the driver.
How recovered cars are handled
When a stolen vehicle turns up inside city limits, Cincinnati officers run it through regional databases, notify the owner and, if necessary, have it towed to the Police Department's Impound Unit for processing. The Cincinnati Police Department procedure manual says those steps are meant to preserve evidence and ensure each recovery is fully documented for follow-up investigations.
Part of a wider auto-theft trend
Investigators across the region have been warning about organized car theft crews that favor speed and technology over smashed windows and hot-wiring. Some groups use gadgets that mimic key fobs or boost key signals to unlock and start vehicles without ever touching the actual keys. Authorities told Journal-News that residents should not confront suspected thieves, since some groups have been armed.
How to help and protect your vehicle
Neighbors with doorbell cameras, Ring systems or dashcams that may have recorded Section Road near Reinhold Drive on Feb. 12 are urged to share that footage with investigators. Tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at (513) 352-3040.
To cut down the odds of a theft, police and local coverage recommend keeping key fobs away from doors and windows, parking in well-lit spots, using a visible steering wheel lock and calling 911 if you see a theft in progress.
