APD's Auto Theft Unit has specialized programs designed to reduce vehicle crimes. The Auto Theft Interdiction Project programs (ATIP) are partly funded by the Texas Auto Burglary & Theft Prevention Authority. There are two auto theft detectives per Austin Region.

ATIP combats vehicle theft and burglary through law enforcement, crime analysis, crime prevention and public awareness. This forms a proactive program to investigate, identify, arrest and charge criminals.

Some of the measures involved in this proactive program are:

• Conducting Salvage Yard Inspections
• Performing Interdiction Activities
• Locating Chop Shops
• Identifying Automotive Organized Crime
• Performing Surveillance to Apprehend Criminals committing Burglary of Vehicles
• Conducting Operations which Target Offenders
• Scheduling and Performing 68-A Inspections (State requirement)
• Performing VIN Etching Services and Attending Community Events to Educate the Public