A large-scale auto theft ring was operating in the Denver Metropolitan area. Detective Kingsly was the lead and coordinated with numerous local law enforcement agencies. The ring was focused on stealing vehicles, primarily trucks, from Denver International Airport and surrounding areas and driving them to the US/Mexican border where they would sell them to entities from Mexico, which would sell them to the Cartels. Countless hours were spent over this year-long investigation of a criminal enterprise. Innovative methods were used to investigate, track, locate, and arrest suspects. Both great personal initiative and tenacity were required to solve this major series of crimes being committed around the Denver metro area. 

Achievements:

• Largest auto theft investigation in Colorado history
• 190 stolen vehicles linked to organized crime
• Estimated losses: $9.47 million
• 9-month Grand Jury presentation led to 17 offenders indicted
• 222 felony counts filed (auto theft, weapons, drug charges)
• The auto theft rate in Colorado reduced by over 50% since 2022

Congratulations, Detective Kingsly, for all your hard work as this year's recipient of the IAATI Award of Merit.