Welcome to the Texas Association of Vehicle Theft Investigators (TAVTI), the South Central Regional Chapter (SCRC) of the International Association of Auto Theft Investigators!

TAVTI was formed in 1975 by a group of law enforcement officers from Texas concerned with the rising volume of vehicle thefts and the associated financial loss. They decided to form an organization dedicated to addressing the crime of vehicle theft. Soon thereafter, the by-laws were adopted and the State of Texas established a charter for TAVTI.

Since its formation, TAVTI has demonstrated that the most effective weapon to combat auto theft, as well as other crimes, is cooperation. Auto theft continues to be one of the most complex, costly and widespread crimes to confront law enforcement and citizens throughout the United States, and TAVTI's efforts have been increased accordingly. In 1976, TAVTI sponsored legislation requiring salvage yards to keep records. In 1977, they called for the standardization of confidential vehicle identification numbers (CVINS). In 1991, TAVTI sponsored the creation of the Texas Automobile Theft Prevention Authority (ATPA), which is now the Texas Auto Burglary and Theft Prevention Authority (ABTPA). This program has allowed the state to fund and support auto theft investigative task forces and crime prevention programs throughout Texas.

TAVTI has opened its membership doors to law enforcement, the insurance industry, and four other charter states: Oklahoma, Louisiana, New Mexico and Arkansas. In 1999, TAVTI voted to become a member of IAATI and become affiliated with IAATI's South Central Chapter, which brings the above-mentioned states together in one unified entity. A regional director represents each of the charter states as well as regions within Texas. Members have the opportunity to come together during TAVTI's week-long educational seminar and business meeting held in the fall of each year. This conference provides many hours of classroom training and instruction to enable members to keep abreast of the ever-changing dynamics associated with vehicle theft. This event brings together a world-wide network of information and assistance to our members. Members also enjoy regular auto theft information mailings and updates, excellent statewide networking, and the quarterly SlamHammer membership magazine.

If you have questions about this website, please contact Michelle Lanham at 817-291-7208 or tavtiscrc@gmail.com.   If you have questions about the SCRC Annual Conference, please contact SCRC Treasurer Kat Anderson, at 806-787-5133 /  texkat52@yahoo.com, or contact Michelle Snyder at 254-757-0701 / adminattf@burnetcountytexas.org.