A million dollars in cash. In quarters, actually - that's the estimated annual loss in revenues from parking meter theft. Usually, when a meter is stolen, the mechanical lock system is broken down and a key fabricated to fit the system. A gang or crew of meter thieves becomes expert in systematically raiding the meters. Losses in revenues, property damage and repair time mount up.
Gangs often recruit kids to do the actual stealing.
If they are caught, they usually receive probation under the juvenile justice system. Single meters are occasionally broken into, but this is crude and insignificant compared to the organized, ongoing theft that depletes parking coiffures. The city's 23,000 meters generated 13.7 million dollars in gross revenues last year. This kind of income potential has motivated city officials to investigate ways to curb theft, prevent vandalism and improve operations. City government is not alone in getting shortchanged by parking meters, however.