The Auto Theft Division is responsible for investigating thefts of motor vehicles and vehicle parts, as well as investigating burglaries of motor vehicles. It is organized into the following units:

Grant (HACTF) The Grant Unit is funded by a state agency. Also known as the Houston Auto Crimes Task Force (HACTF), the Grant Unit is comprised of five squads. The Auto Theft Crime Reduction Squad investigates the sale or purchase of automobile components stripped from stolen vehicles. It also investigates hot spots and coordinates with patrol divisions to assist in crime reduction strategies including short- and long-term proactive investigations. The Salvage Shop Squad investigates vehicles rebuilt with stolen salvage or Public Vehicle Identification Numbers (PVIN), as well as investigating the import and export of stolen vehicles or auto parts. The Covert Operations Squad is responsible for identifying, investigating, infiltrating, and apprehending those individuals and organizations involved in the theft of motor vehicles that are subsequently transferred south of the Texas and United States border. The Port/Accessory Squad is responsible for investigating stolen heavy equipment, tractor-trailers, and or motorcycles at the area Port and Accessory Shops. The Crime Prevention Squad is involved in promoting crime reduction initiatives, such as PVIN etching, and public relations projects.

Proactive The Proactive Unit'sprimary focus will be on emerging crime trends as identified through crime analysis. Its mission and focus will be to employ innovative and aggressive strategies to reduce auto crimes in the targeted areas.

Incoming Case Investigations
The Incoming Case Investigations Unit is responsible for conducting follow-up investigations on auto theft, burglary of motor vehicle, and theft from motor vehicle cases.
Special Investigations The Special Investigations Unit includes the Property Disposition Squad, Violent Crimes Capital Task Force, Identity Theft/Document Fraud, and Case Management/TTY. The Property Disposition Unit is responsible for investigating and disposing of evidentiary property.  The Violent Crimes Task Force is responsible for coordinating investigations among many agencies, such as ICE and the FBI. Identity Theft/Document Fraud is responsible for investigating auto theft crimes related to identity theft and theft of documents as a result of the auto theft and/or burglary of motor vehicle. Case Management handles case review and screening.

Auto Dealers
Auto Dealers is responsible for licensing and regulation of automotive related businesses as well as for automotive establishment (car dealerships, salvage yards, repair shops, tow truck drivers) licensing process.

Contact Us

7am-6pm M-F (excluding holidays)
Email: HPDAutoTheft.Division@HoustonPolice.Org
Phone: 713-308-3500
Fax: 713-308-3440