News Summary
A former employee of Avis Budget, Milton Thompson III, is accused of stealing 47 vehicles from the company at Syracuse Hancock International Airport, resulting in losses surpassing $1 million. The Syracuse Regional Airport Authority Police Department has recovered 42 stolen vehicles and is looking for Thompson, who faces felony charges. The investigation reveals concerns about airport security and the vetting of employees in the vehicle rental industry as authorities seek public assistance in locating Thompson.
Syracuse, New York
An Avis Budget employee allegedly stole 47 vehicles from the company’s location at Syracuse Hancock International Airport. The thefts, which transpired between June and August, have resulted in a total loss exceeding $1 million. The suspect, identified as Milton Thompson III, a 31-year-old former employee of Avis Budget, is accused of orchestrating a scheme to rent out these stolen vehicles across various locations in Onondaga County.
The Syracuse Regional Airport Authority Police Department initiated an investigation after Avis Budget reported missing vehicles in August. So far, police have successfully recovered 42 of the 47 stolen vehicles. Thompson is currently wanted on felony charges of grand larceny and scheme to defraud. Authorities have also arrested several other individuals related to the vehicle thefts.
Details of the Investigation
While authorities have not disclosed specific details regarding how the vehicles were stolen from the airport lot, it is believed that Thompson may have exploited his employee access privileges to facilitate the thefts. The investigation is being supported by the Onondaga County District Attorney’s Office, which is working alongside law enforcement to uncover the full extent of the scheme and apprehend those involved.
Community Impact and Response
Avis Budget has confirmed their awareness of the theft allegations and stated that they are cooperating fully with law enforcement during the ongoing investigation. This incident has raised concerns within the community regarding security measures at rental car locations, especially at major transportation hubs like airports.
How to Help
Authorities are asking for the public’s assistance in locating Thompson. Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is urged to contact the Syracuse Regional Airport Authority Airport Police Department at 315-455-3500.
Background on Avis Budget
Avis Budget is a well-known vehicle rental company that operates across the United States and internationally. They have various locations at airports, making them one of the primary choices for travelers needing rental vehicles. Incidents like this can significantly impact the company’s reputation and operational procedures.
The theft of vehicles, particularly from airport premises, raises crucial discussions about security protocols and the importance of vetting employees in industries dealing with high-value assets. As the investigation unfolds, further revelations may bring more clarity to how such a significant breach occurred and what measures can be implemented to prevent future incidents.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- New York Post
- Wikipedia: Syracuse, New York
- CNY Central
- Google Search: Rental Car Theft Syracuse
- AP News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Rental Car
- WKTV
- Google News: Avis Budget Theft
- New York Upstate
- Google Scholar: Vehicle Theft Airport
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