NCJ Number
77371
Date Published
1978
Length
150 pages
Annotation
Based upon examination of previously adjudicated cases in New York, a review of police reports on undercover fencing investigations, and other data, this report explores the nature and scope of fencing operations in New York, the extent of participation by legitimate business in the distribution of stolen property, and local remedies for the problem.
Abstract
The estimated total value of property reported stolen in New York was over $650 million during 1976. This could mean that as much as $148 million evaded taxation in the State, resulting in a loss to the State of over $10 million for a single year. To identify channels through which stolen merchandise is distributed, the State Commission on Investigation instituted a Sell Operation which involved the bulk sale of allegedly stolen health and beauty aid products to apparently legitimate business concerns. The operation was conducted from November 1976, through March 1977. Of 17 firms offered merchandise, 9 purchased and indicated a willingness to purchase the allegedly stolen goods. Details of the Sell Operation, of examinations of the accounting techniques used by the firms involved, and of testimony from those involved in a burglary ring specializing in the theft of antiques all help to illustrate the ease with which otherwise legitimate businesses can receive and distribute stolen goods. State and local legislation does exist to combat the problem of receivership and possession of stolen property. However, such legislation is often only sporadically enforced and regularly assigned a low priority within police departments throughout the State. Four appendixes include tables of stolen property information and a questionnaire for antiques dealers published in several antiques journals. Footnotes and sample sales invoices are included.