Overview
This transcript details the experiences of "Robert," a former professional car thief from Los Angeles, describing his journey from teenage gang member to accomplished auto thief, and sharing insights into car theft methods and evolving vehicle security.
Robert's Introduction to Car Theft
- Robert began stealing cars at age 15 as part of a notorious LA street gang.
- His first theft involved breaking a window and hotwiring the ignition with a screwdriver.
- The thrill and adrenaline of the act drew him into an eight-year criminal career.
Types of Car Thieves
- Robert distinguishes between casual "joyriders" and professional thieves.
- Joyriders steal cars for temporary use or thrill, making recovery by owners more likely.
- Professional thieves like Robert ensure stolen vehicles are never recovered by owners.
Techniques and Tools Used
- Robert mastered numerous methods to steal various car models.
- Older vehicles could be stolen within minutes using everyday household tools like screwdrivers, scissors, or sparkplugs.
- He found certain models, like Ford Expeditions and Dodge vans, especially easy targets due to their design.
Evolving Vehicle Security
- Modern vehicles feature advanced security systems, making them harder to steal.
- New cars often require specific computer devices to bypass complex anti-theft technologies such as multiple kill switches.
- Despite increased difficulty, experienced thieves can still steal new vehicles with the right equipment.