Ex-Avis Staff Member's 47-Car Heist Exposes Weaknesses in Rental Security

Authorities announced Friday that a 31-year-old former employee of Avis Budget at Syracuse Hancock International Airport is accused of masterminding an audacious plot to steal 47 rental cars between June and August. The vehicles, worth more than $1 million, were allegedly rented out throughout Onondaga County, and so far, 42 have been recovered, according to an

The Syracuse Regional Airport Authority Police Department’s investigation determined that Thompson, who is no longer employed by Avis Budget, was the ringleader behind the thefts. Officials did not disclose the exact method used to steal the cars but noted that the operation involved fraudulent rentals at several regional sites, according to the AP. The airport authority also stated that multiple other suspects have been arrested in connection with the case, facing charges for illegal use of vehicles, the CNYBJ report said.

Avis Budget has yet to release a comprehensive public statement, with a spokesperson only confirming the company’s awareness of the situation and its cooperation with law enforcement, according to the AP. The incident has sparked concerns about internal security at car rental companies, especially in busy locations like airports. Reports indicate that the stolen cars, which included both luxury and family vehicles, were circulated through private rental channels, making recovery more difficult, according to an

This case highlights the increasing difficulties authorities face in tackling organized theft rings that target rental fleets. Comparable cases have been reported in other American cities, often involving employees misusing their access to company resources. The magnitude of this theft—nearly 50 cars in just three months—has attracted the attention of local police and industry watchdogs,

Officials are asking anyone with knowledge of Thompson’s location or the whereabouts of the missing vehicles to contact them. The airport police have provided a phone number and email for tips, according to the CNYBJ. As of Friday, the investigation is still active, and authorities have not disclosed how long the scheme was running before it was uncovered.