Rail Cargo Theft: Building Stronger Partnerships Around America’s Freight Corridors

ICTC Cargo Theft Intelligence Brief — Intelligence • Investigations • Prevention • Partnerships

By Commander Michael Ware | Illinois Cargo Theft Coalition

Rail Networks Are Part of a National Supply Chain

Rail cargo can travel through multiple jurisdictions while carrying consumer goods, industrial materials, electronics and other valuable commodities. That scale makes collaboration essential.

Local Knowledge and Railroad Intelligence Complement Each Other

Railroad police understand their networks, operations and recurring risks. Local and regional law-enforcement agencies bring jurisdictional knowledge, investigative resources and connections to broader criminal activity. Working together can create a more complete operating picture.

Technology Supports Awareness

Lawful use of tracking systems, RFID-enabled identification, video, license-plate recognition, analytical tools and other technology can support prevention and investigations when combined with trained personnel and clear response procedures.

Cargo Theft Does Not Respect Jurisdictional Boundaries

A theft affecting a rail corridor can connect to warehouses, vehicles, fencing operations and distribution networks far from the original location. Intelligence sharing helps partners recognize those connections and pursue the broader enterprise.

Strengthen the Network

Cargo theft crosses company, county and state lines. ICTC exists to connect vetted professionals across law enforcement, transportation, logistics, rail, retail, loss prevention and cargo security so intelligence can move faster than the criminal enterprise.

Build Investigative Capability with BSCII

The Basic Supply Chain Intelligence Investigator (BSCII) certification is designed to strengthen professional understanding of cargo theft, supply-chain intelligence, investigations, prevention and public-private collaboration. ICTC members also receive member benefits including 10% off ICTC training and conferences.

Intelligence • Investigations • Prevention • Partnerships

Illinois Cargo Theft Coalition — Building stronger intelligence. Developing stronger investigators. Protecting the supply chain.