NCJ Number
78979
Date Published
1977
Length
9 pages
Annotation
Problems connected with searching for stolen cars in traffic in West Germany and technical changes required to solve these problems are discussed.
Abstract
In searching for stolen cars in traffic, police must rely almost entirely on license plates for identification. Unfortunately, license numbers are not always of any help because of the large number of duplicates in circulation. Furthermore, license tags are so poorly fastened to cars that they can be easily detached and replaced. No government agency checks to see whether license plates issued are used for the suitable vehicle. Mass searches for stolen cars are also difficult because it is impossible to stop and check all suspicious cars except at borders. The problems described can be resolved by issuing no more duplicate license plates and by applying licenses of reflex-reflecting film directly to the rear of the car so the license can only be removed chemically or thermally. Systems can also be devised to automatically check for stolen vehicles. For example, traffic check stations could be established near traffic lights or parking areas. These automatic checking stations would be equipped with a light beam capable of reading special binary coded strips affixed to the passing automobiles. In another system, a video camera sensitive to infrared light would photograph passing automobiles, and a special scanner would read the cars' license numbers. This data would be transmitted to a central computer. When a stolen vehicle is located, the police would automatically be notified. Fully automatic traffic checks are expected to be in operation within the next few years.