Hot Wheels
From 1983 to 1992, the number of vehicles stolen in the county rose 120%, but thefts have fallen since. Undercover efforts have shed light on this black market. Posing as professional thieves, investigators bought a Mitsubishi sports car for $5,000. Dealer price: $44,000.
More Cars Kept
Auto theft has declined since the advent of the auto theft task force in July 1993:
July-Dec., 1992: 10,417
Jan.-June, 1993: 10,520
July-Dec., 1993: 9,696
Jan.-June, 1994: 9,613
July-Dec., 1994: 9,583
Jan.-June, 1995: 8,780
Source: Orange County District Attorney
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