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The South American Theft Groups

An Overview of a Transnational Criminal Network and Strategies for Field Enforcement

PO Box 847, Apex, NC 27502, dean_caputo{at}yahoo.com

The South American Theft Groups (SATG) has developed into a transnational criminal network with profound effects on society—from individual victims, to entire industries and local economies. Primarily from Colombia, they continue to frustrate law enforcement with their skills in conducting crimes and eluding adjudication. Of further concern is the escalation of their violent attacks. A historical brief on Colombia and the exploitation of the documented intelligence of the SATG heretofore shed light on the manifestation of this criminal network. Furthermore, nexus between the SATG, paramilitaries, and narcotraffickers are asserted. Finally, exposure of their vulnerabilities is presented (the greatest of which is that most of the members are illegal aliens), and reasonable recommendations are offered for the deterrence of their future successes.

Key Words: South American Theft Groups • boosting • flimflam • transnational criminal network

Police Quarterly, Vol. 11, No. 3, 271-288 (2008)
DOI: 10.1177/1098611107306219


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