Michael, a reformed car thief, has opened up about the surprising factor that often influenced his choice of which cars to steal. While many drivers take extensive measures to protect their vehicles, one detail is rarely considered—and it would often catch Michael’s attention.
According to Michael, who requested to use a pseudonym, a cluttered or messy car interior was a clear signal that the owner was careless about security. Loose paperwork, visible bags, and other clutter suggested the owner likely hadn’t installed extra protective measures such as signal-blocking pouches or immobilisers.
Speaking to ARF Investigations, Michael said, “If the inside was messy, it told me everything I needed to know about the owner. People who leave their documents and belongings scattered around usually don’t worry about security. That made my job much easier.”
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Michael also described what would make him decide against targeting a vehicle. “If it was difficult to quickly drive the car away—say, if it was blocked in by other cars or if there were obstacles like children’s toys on the driveway—I wouldn’t bother. A quick getaway was crucial.”
He explained that most vehicles he stole were taken for parts. “I would strip the car for valuable components and move them the same night. The engine might go to a mechanic, while other parts would be sold online. This method was fast and carried low risk.”
Reflecting on his past, Michael expressed regret for the pain he caused. “I’m not proud of what I did. I probably ruined many families’ lives. After getting caught and spending 30 months in prison, that’s a life I won’t return to. I’m sharing this now so others can be more aware and prevent theft.”