As evidenced by the video above, cargo theft is not a “victimless crime.” Thieves are becoming increasingly brazen and increasingly violent.
Cargo theft is up 1,500% in three years. Last year, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) tracked 5,715 cases of cargo theft, totaling more than $155M in stolen property. The cost of these crimes is being borne not only by the truck driver and train engineer who are exposed to the violence but also by the consumer.
Electronics and athletic shoe heists draw national attention, but food and beverage items are the most common targets as they are virtually impossible to trace.
Organized crime is active in cargo theft and, with that comes increased sophistication. A “tactical criminal” will strike when opportunity arises. An “organized criminal” will create the opportunity.
Be careful out there!