Missing Property | Theft Offences in Cologne

Most cases of missing property involve theft or burglary. Using various methods of criminal investigation, our Cologne detectives can often reconstruct the sequence of events, track the perpetrator, and recover the stolen property. Elderly citizens are particularly vulnerable, as perpetrators frequently see them as easy targets. Scammers gain the trust of seniors through various pretexts (legends), exploiting their good faith and willingness to help. Victims are often specifically selected and observed beforehand to assess their behaviour.

 

The incidence of theft in Cologne is rising, while clearance rates remain consistently low. In 2014 alone, nearly 80,000 cases were reported to the Cologne police, with fewer than 18 percent solved. Pickpocketing is a particular focus, occurring on public transport, busy squares, and streets. Pickpockets typically operate in teams: one distracts the victim directly (e.g., by bumping into them or starting a conversation) or indirectly (by drawing general attention), while the other steals the item. Wallets and mobile phones are frequent targets, often containing sensitive personal data. Stolen or lost credit and debit cards should be immediately blocked via the nationwide emergency number: 116 116.

 

Pickpockets are often professional criminals who rely on these offences for their livelihood. They act with experience and precision, making detection and subsequent investigation challenging, especially in crowded areas.

Mantrailing: Searching for People with Tracking Dogs

Kurtz Investigations Cologne also investigates cases involving missing persons: runaway children, missing heirs, and lost relatives. The more information available, the higher our chances of success.

 

A long-established method of criminal investigation is the use of scent-tracking dogs. Sherlock Holmes famously relied on his mixed-breed Toby. In recent decades, scent dogs have largely been used for rescue operations. However, mantrailing—tracking individuals with specially trained dogs—offers exciting and sometimes spectacular possibilities. Mantrailing dogs can detect the unique scent molecules that each person emits and follow the trail over vast distances and extended periods (odorology).

 

The effectiveness of mantrailing dogs varies by breed and training. Some reports indicate dogs successfully following trails years later, even across highways and rivers. Police estimates tend to be more conservative, often citing a maximum of three weeks, sometimes just a few days. Nevertheless, mantrailing has proven so effective that several regional police departments now use it, and courts may consider it strong circumstantial evidence.

 

Kurtz Investigations Cologne collaborates nationwide with mantrailing dogs at multiple locations. If you are at a loss, take advantage of this invaluable investigative tool.

 

For a detailed article on mantrailing by Mario Seydel, see the commemorative publication for the 10th anniversary of the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Kriminalistik or a shortened version at www.kriminalistik.info.