Getting the police to issue an All Points Bulletin (APB) on your car typically involves reporting your vehicle as stolen or associating it with a serious crime. An APB is a notification sent to law enforcement agencies to be on the lookout for a specific person, vehicle, or item. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Confirm the Situation
Before contacting the police, ensure that:
- Your car has genuinely been stolen or is missing.
- You have checked for alternate explanations (e.g., the car being towed, borrowed, or parked elsewhere).
2. Gather Information
Prepare detailed information about your car to provide to law enforcement:
- Vehicle make and model: Example: Toyota Camry 2020.
- Color: Example: Red.
- License plate number: Include any state-specific details.
- Unique identifiers: Dents, stickers, or modifications.
- Last known location and time: Where and when the car was last seen.
- Additional details: If there are personal belongings or valuables inside the car.
3. File a Police Report
Contact your local police department as soon as possible:
- Call the non-emergency number for the department, or dial 911 if you suspect immediate criminal activity.
- Provide all the details about the missing vehicle.
- Be ready to answer questions about the circumstances surrounding the incident, such as whether you left the keys in the car or if there were signs of forced entry.
4. Request the Issuance of an APB
- Inform the officer of your desire for an APB to be issued.
- The decision to issue an APB is at the discretion of law enforcement and depends on the severity of the situation. For example:
- APBs are more likely for vehicles associated with crimes such as theft, kidnapping, or other emergencies.
- If the situation does not warrant an APB, your car may still be entered into a stolen vehicle database like the National Crime Information Center (NCIC).
5. Provide Updates
- Notify the police immediately if you recover the vehicle or gain new information.
- Keep your contact information updated to ensure you can be reached if your vehicle is found.
6. Spread the Word (Optional but Helpful)
While waiting for law enforcement action, you can:
- Share your vehicle details on social media and community groups.
- Notify local towing companies, repair shops, and parking enforcement agencies.