What is the correct procedure for clearing a number of auto thefts when a detective makes an arrest of a car thief?

When a detective makes an arrest in connection with multiple auto thefts, preparing one report with all relevant case numbers is the most effective approach. This method consolidates information about all related incidents into a single document, which can streamline the investigation process.

By including case numbers and details of each theft within one report, the detective ensures that all pertinent information is easily accessible for further analysis, making it more efficient for supervisors, prosecutors, and any other personnel involved in the case to understand the broader context of the crimes. It also helps in tracking patterns or connections between the thefts, which can be crucial for ongoing investigations or for seeking additional charges against the suspect.

Other options like writing separate reports for each theft would create unnecessary duplication of work and make it harder to connect the cases, while submitting a verbal summary lacks the formality and detail required for thorough documentation. Filing a general incident report may not encompass the necessary specifics of each theft involved in the case, which could lead to missed connections or critical information being overlooked.