This award is designed to recognize excellence in the field of Vehicle Identification.

North Central Regional Chapter President Nate Bradley submitted this year’s award nomination.

From January 2021 to December 2023, a total of 768 Dodge Chargers and Challengers were stolen in the Kansas City Metropolitan area, often used in violent crimes before being stripped for parts by organized criminals. These vehicles represent an economic impact of approximately $40,000,000. 

The Kansas Highway Patrol's Troop V, specializing in vehicle identification and recovery, identified and recovered many of these vehicles, leading to the discovery of two chop shops and multiple suspects. Collaborative efforts by technical troopers, crime analysts, NICB agents, and other agencies led to successful raids and the uncovering of stolen engines and transmissions.

The operation also utilized component marking by Stellantis Corporation, resulting in the recovery of $3.5 million in stolen vehicles and parts. Our congratulations to members of the Kansas Highway Patrol Troop V and NICB personnel here today, led by Captain Craig Phillips.