Police in Portland, Ore., tracked down and arrested a robbery suspect using an AirTag to follow his movements across the state. AirTags and other Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) trackers have become increasingly popular over the years, primarily due to how helpful they are in tracking down keys, wallets, backpacks and other small belongings. They are relatively inexpensive as well, which has helped increase their popularity, especially among the tech-savvy.
However, despite all their advantages, AirTags and other BLE trackers have come under increasing scrutiny as bad actors use them to steal vehicles and stalk women. Some online sellers are even selling modified 'stealth AirTags' with disconnected speakers and disabled warnings to aid stalking and other illicit activities. The situation has become such a significant privacy threat that multiple states are considering legislation to make so-called 'AirTag stalking' a punishable crime.
Amidst all the grim news about stalking and thefts using AirTags and other BLE trackers, a new report in Portland, Ore., shows how the technology can also aid victims and law enforcement. According to a report by ABC affiliate KATU, police in Portland used an AirTag to track down and arrest an armed robber after he unknowingly picked up the tracking device during a robbery. The suspect, later identified as 39-year-old Justin Johnston, is believed to have first robbed a store in the city on Thursday afternoon before escaping into the Embassy Suites Hotel.
AirTags Also Help Nab Criminals
In the hotel, Johnston is believed to have broken into one of the rooms and stolen several items, including a backpack. Unbeknownst to the robber, the bag contained an Apple AirTag, which the police were able to track to North Portland. Once the local police in Multnomah County were alerted of the suspect's presence in the area, he was located, chased down and taken into custody without anybody getting hurt. Following his arrest, Johnston was charged with robbery in the second degree and burglary in the first degree.
It is worth noting that this is not the first time that Apple's AirTag has been used to track down and recover stolen belongings. Earlier this month, photographer Graham Tait was on vacation in South Australia when someone broke into his car and stole his laptop and camera equipment. Fortunately, both the bags had AirTags fitted, helping Tait track his belongings using the Find My app. Once he reported the matter to the police, the equipment was recovered and the case is now being investigated.
Source: KATU