A GPS tracking device, similar to the Apple Airtag pictured, was used during a recent domestic incident in Upper Gwynedd Township.
Upper Gwynedd Police have issued a warning about the use of GPS trackers after a Bucks County man attached one to his ex-girlfriend’s vehicle then tracked her down at a local convenience store within the township.
The incident occurred in late December 2020, and the victim told police it was the second time her ex-boyfriend had affixed a tracking device to her vehicle. Police said the ex-boyfriend, who had no legitimate business in the area, was captured on surveillance entering the victim’s vehicle and stealing her purse while she was in the store. The ex-boyfriend remained on scene and confronted the ex-girlfriend, then later sent her a text that she had left her purse at his home in an effort to lure her back to the home, police said.
Though police could not locate the tracking device on the vehicle, the victim later found the device while at a service station and destroyed it, according to Upper Gwynedd Police Chief David Duffy.
The ex-boyfriend was subsequently charged with misdemeanor theft from a motor vehicle, receiving stolen property and harassment. The arrest is one of a growing trend across the country in which suspects are using tracking devices during the commission of domestic crimes.
Fortunately for Upper Gwynedd residents, there hasn’t been a local uptick in incidents involving tracking devices. However, Duffy cautioned that there’s not a lot that people can do to prevent being tracked.
“There are certain technologies that help detect [those devices],” said Duffy. “But, otherwise, tracking seems very difficult to prevent considering the devices available to the general public.”
One of those technologies involves alerts on the Apple iPhone, which will let a person know that they are being tracked by an “unknown accessory” and their location is visible to the device’s user. However, other devices continue to fly under the radar.
For anyone who may become concerned that they are being tracked, Duffy said the best bet is always to dial 9-1-1.
“Residents should call 9-1-1, even if they do not feel it is an emergency,” Duffy said. “It is the most efficient way to get a person to the correct department and resources.”
Should a tracking device be found, Duffy said charges could be filed under the harassment and stalking statutes. He also believes further legislation involving the devices in on the horizon.
“I would not be surprised to see enhanced legislation regarding the devices,” Duffy said. “Of course, that tends to take a while.”
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