Website helps APD find stolen property

AUSTIN (KXAN) - Austin Police Department said the online database LeadsOnline.com helped them solve a recent burglary case.

Vamvoras, LTD reported stolen property from one of their vehicles during July and August.

According to an arrest warrant, the investigating detective performed a search using LeadsOnline.com to trace the stolen items back to a former employee of Vamvoras.

Jody Lee Jeanis was arrested for theft after the items were recovered at two different pawn shops, and he was connected to them.

“It is definitely one of the first things we are going to look at,” said Detective Dustin Lee about the website that can be used by law enforcement, businesses and civilians.

The website allows the user to register items, serial numbers and pictures of items that are bought or sold at pawn shops.

If the items turn up stolen, law enforcement has instant access to the database.

“I’d say we use it in almost every case of detailed description or serial number,” said Lee.

Chances for recovering stolen items using the database will likely increase if property owners take pictures and record serial numbers of their valuable items.