The National Cargo Theft Task Force has developed a web site designed to be the central point of contact for law enforcement and the insurance and transportation industries when it comes to cargo theft.


The web site is also accessible to the public to raise awareness about the issue of cargo theft and act as a warning against the dangers of the increasing amount of stolen goods appearing for sale on the black market. Every year, an estimated $10 billion to $15 billion is stolen from America's highways by organized thieves, according to the group.

During a conference in November 2006, officials from around the country developed a comprehensive plan for addressing cargo theft. The National Commercial Vehicle and Cargo Theft Prevention Strategy suggests creating national cargo theft task forces, intelligence databases and information sharing. The National Strategy also recommends that Congress hold hearings concerning cargo theft and its impact on the economy as a basis for drafting comprehensive cargo theft legislation.

During an upcoming one-day summit in Washington, D.C., on Oct. 20, the National Cargo Theft Task Force hopes to bring together law enforcement, trucking and insurance industry representatives as well as state and federal officials to discuss effective strategies for combating theft in the U.S.

More info: www.nationalcargothefttaskforce.org