The Growing Threat of Trail-Based Vehicle Evasion & Targeted Facility Thefts

As vehicle pursuits increasingly spill into Los Angeles County’s park trails, riverbeds, and storm drain systems, law enforcement agencies face mounting challenges in both suspect apprehension and public safety preservation. The Growing Threat of Trail-Based Vehicle Evasion & Targeted Facility Thefts explores this emerging trend, citing real-world incidents from 2024–2025, and outlines strategic policy solutions to address the theft of high-value construction and landscape vehicles from public and private facilities located near regional parks and golf courses. The brief emphasizes the urgent need for inter-agency coordination, urban design considerations, and technological investment to prevent suspects from exploiting recreational infrastructure for escape. Scholars, public safety professionals, and urban planners are encouraged to download the full report for insight into this evolving issue:
👉 Download the Full Policy Brief (PDF)