ARIZONA AUTOMOBILE THEFT AUTHORITY SUMMER 2024 NEWSLETTER

The repatriation process time frame varies depending on the circumstances of each vehicle. If the vehicle is involved in another crime, such as a homicide, it will be held by Mexican authorities until the case is adjudicated.

The vast majority of repatriated vehicles do not return in the same condition as when they originally crossed into Mexico. Many vehicles return with bullet holes and occasionally with biohazard concerns. At times, vehicles are stripped of valuable parts and accessories and are almost always missing the batteries and keys/fobs. Very rarely will a vehicle return in good, drivable condition.

In 2023, with the assistance of Mexican law enforcement (federal, state, and municipal), the BLO unit located 798 stolen vehicles in Mexico. These vehicles, reported stolen from all over the U.S., amounted to over $23,242,136 in assets for uninsured owners, insurance companies, and rental car companies.

Of the 798 stolen vehicles located in Mexico, 476 were recovered by detectives assigned to the VTTF or NICB agents in California or Texas. The total monetary value of repatriated vehicles returning through Arizona in 2023 was $14,342,163. It's important to note that, for various reasons, not all stolen vehicles located in Mexico make it back into the U.S. These reasons include issues such as the vehicle's condition, inaction by Mexican authorities, and even interference by cartel members which can make the return of these stolen vehicles difficult and often impossible.

The VTTF is funded by an annual grant from the Arizona Automobile Theft Authority (AATA); however, the BLO unit is funded separately by DPS. The AATA applauds DPS' commitment to staff this unit that plays a vital role in recovering U.S. stolen vehicles from Mexico.