Who Is Part of NS PATNET?
Nova Scotia PATNET (NS PATNET) consists of 35 members and was formed in 2013. It is funded by Équité's investigative services (formerly of IBC), as well as local sponsors from the insurance, salvage and automobile industries. In addition to IBC’s auto theft investigators, members include:
- Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)
- Municipal police
- Department of Natural Resources
- Canadian Border Services Agency (CBSA)
- Service Nova Scotia.
NS PATNET training focuses on vital information that every frontline enforcement officer should know. Once each participant completes the training, he or she becomes the go-to person within his or her department for this information. Participants may also request assistance from other PATNET members.
How PATNET Fights Auto Theft and Fraud
PATNET shares information, professional training and support between the property and casualty insurance industry and law enforcement agencies. Red Flags at the Roadside is a program that:
- Provides information to help frontline officers recognize “red flags” that lead to the recovery of stolen vehicles.
- Shares examples of how criminals may attempt to disguise stolen vehicles
- Provides instruction on the authority of law enforcement to conduct searches and seizures under the Criminal Code and provincial statutes relating to fraud.
Across the Atlantic Provinces
PATNET expanded its operations to Nova Scotia and Prince Edward Island in 2013. Initiated in the Atlantic provinces, this successful partnership represents a strong commitment between IBC and law enforcement officials to fight auto theft and fraud.
As a cofounder, IBC provides training and workshops and participates in the sharing of information about jurisdictional trends and auto theft activity.