Buyer Beware: Auto Theft Task Force stops stolen vehicles from crossing border
EL PASO, Texas (KVIA) -- The City of El Paso warned about stolen equipment from California making its way to El Paso. El Paso police helped U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Homeland Security Investigations investigate the theft of more than $500,000 worth of heavy-duty equipment.
The city said its Auto Theft Task Force learned about a semi carrying three large pieces of stolen equipment. The trailer allegedly tried to cross the Ysleta Port of Entry in El Paso, but CBP officers alerted the task force about the semi.
Authorities determined the equipment was stolen and stopped the equipment from being sold in Mexico. Officials said the stolen equipment had an estimated value of $280,000.
Stephen Plummer, the public awareness manager for the Auto Theft Task Force, said construction equipment theft is almost as common as cars and trucks.
"This equipment is leased, so it goes to one project, and then it may bounce to another project, and the leasing agency may not know where it is for years," Plummer said.
The city shared a checklist to verify legitimate equipment before handing over any money.
Demand documentation. Ask for dealer invoices or previous bills of sale. Make sure the names on documents match the seller.
Verify the Project Identification Number (PIN). A PIN is like a VIN number for heavy equipment. Ask for clear photos of the PIN and ask for discrepancies with the equipment's load capacity, model or serial number.
Check ownership and liens. Confirm the equipment is free of legal encumbrances and liens.
Request maintenance records. The city said a lack of these records is a red flag.
Watch the price. A price significantly below market value may be a red flag.
Run a professional check for insurance claims, damage, and theft. IRONcheck looks at insurance claims, damage reports, lien checks and PINs.
NICB VINCheck looks at theft records for free.
Contact the Auto Theft Task Force about any suspected stolen item.
