Covert tracking device uncovers stolen accident management car
Paul Booker and Akeel Hussain, both from Bradford, were in the process of dismantling it for parts when they were arrested by police who were led to the their location by a covert tracking device activated by anti-fraud investigators at APU Ltd, part of the Automotive Insurance Solutions Group.
APU led police to a derelict Land Rover garage called Stamford in Wapping Road, Bradford, where the car and both men were found.
Booker and Hussain pleaded guilty to the offences and were sentenced to 12 months community service and 100 hours of unpaid work in Bradford Crown Court yesterday (Wednesday 12 August).
Judge Thomas heard how the stolen vehicle, which was on loan from accident management firm Accident Exchange, had been left secure in Manningham, Bradford, over a weekend while the man who had hired it travelled abroad.
APU’s technology proved that it had been moved, using a key, to the abandoned garage on 2 October.
Sentencing the pair, Judge Thomas told them: “As men in your position, having been in the motor trade for so long, you should have known better. If it had been proven that you stole the vehicle, you would have been facing lengthy custodial sentences. As it is a case of handling sten good, I suggest you learn your lesson.”