“Tile” tracking device assists Auto Theft Detectives in locating stolen vehicle

Oct. 8, 2021

Albuquerque Police Auto Theft Detectives were able to locate a stolen vehicle with the assistance of a tracking device called “Tile”.

On Thursday October 7, 2021,  Auto Theft Detectives were contacted by an individual who’s car had been stolen. They informed detectives they had a “Tile” tracking device inside their car. Through the tracking device, detectives located the vehicle in the area of Coors and Ellison.

Air Support also provided assistance and spotted the car coming to a stop at Morningside and Hilton. The male driver and female passenger both exited the vehicle and upon approach, both were taken into custody.

The male driver, identified as Xavier Wells, 29, was charged with Receiving/Transferring a Stolen Motor Vehicle. Monica Zamora, 39, the passenger, was charged with Receiving and Transferring a Stolen Motor Vehicle, Possession of a Controlled Substance, and Felon in Possession.

Due to the successful recovery of this stolen vehicle, APD encourages the public to use tracking devices like the “Tile” tracker or other similar products like the Apple “AirTag”. These are often used as a tool to help locate stolen property and it is encouraged to place the devices in a location that’s not easily visible.

If someone suspects their vehicle was stolen, they should contact police and not try and locate the vehicle on their own.