Car Theft Initiative

Let's Work Together to Curb Car Theft

Car Theft Initiative - "CTI"

A car is stolen every eleven minutes in Washington State and the number of auto thefts has risen 60 percent in the last eight years.

To tackle this growing problem, former King County Prosecuting Attorney Norm Maleng enacted a program called the Car Theft Initiative (CTI). The goal of CTI is to form a solid partnership of police, prosecutors, and citizens who work together to combat this crime wave that impacts an increasing number of car owners in King County.

As an integral part of this effort, Prosecutor Maleng created a prosecution unit comprised of four deputy prosecutors with expertise in filing and prosecution to specifically target auto thefts and related crimes. CTI prosecutors provide assistance to law enforcement officers to develop these cases for prosecution and to file them within 72 hours of arrest.

In addition, the CTI unit aggressively prosecutes the most prolific auto thieves. Local police agencies identify the most active repeat car thieves and develop "Top 10 Most Wanted" lists for targeted prosecution. Prosecutors ask the court and Judges to impose longer sentences for these chronic repeat offenders. As a result, numerous Top 10 offenders throughout King County are now serving time in prison for auto theft.

CTI is having a positive impact on reducing the number of auto thefts in our community. Together we can end the growing problem of car theft.

Regards,

Daniel T. Satterberg
King County Prosecuting Attorney

If you have any questions about CTI, please contact:
Senior Deputy Prosecuting Attorney Shaya Calvo
516 Third Avenue, W554
Seattle, WA 98104
(206) 296-9000
FAX: (206) 296-0955
E-Mail: shaya.calvo@kingcounty.gov

Dated: July 20, 2006