“If it connects to the cell network then the cops know which cell it’s talking to and could trace it if they wanted to. It seems they don’t want to make the effort. “
For sure, good point. And it’s possible that the cell it’s connecting to is in ‘LaHood’ and therefore the thief is immune to arrest.
That’s an ongoing problem: cops reluctant to make arrests in Da Hood,because they know the whole Hood will come swarming out like African Bees.
And the prosecutor isn’t going to put them in jail anyway.
It’s turning into a “no-go zone”.