Police note license plate thefts rising

5/2/2002

Toledo police detectives are concerned about a recent rash of license plate thefts from vehicles.

In the last week, at least 10 license plate thefts have been reported and possibly 90 in the month of April alone, police records show.

Detective James Couch said though he does not believe license plate thefts have increased significantly, the criminal practice has always been a big headache for police officers.

He said suspects often use the stolen license plates on stolen vehicles.

“What people need to do [when they notice that their plates have been stolen] is come in and make a complaint,” the detective said.

Detective Couch said after reporting the crime, motorists then have to contact the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles to purchase a replacement license plate.