The new series “Krone” provides an insight into the work of the criminal investigation department of Lower Austria: At the beginning, detective Stefan Pfandler reports on current challenges. This includes, for example, the extensive investigations into bogus police officers, whose victims are often defrauded of large sums of money. In this area alone, the total damage in Austria recently amounted to as much as 14 million euros per year!
The “feeling at home” came very quickly for Stefan Pfandler: Since July 1, the 56-year-old, as the new head of the State Criminal Investigation Department (LKA), has set his sights on crimes in the largest state. After six months, the chief of police now provides insights into current challenges in the new series “Krone” about the LKA. Because the corona pandemic has also left its mark in criminal law.
“There has been a huge boom in the past two years, especially in the field of cybercrime,” says Pfandler. Offenders quickly realized that lockdowns made theft and burglaries more difficult – the internet had established itself as an effective alternative. “The hype is still unbroken,” warns the LKA director.
14 million euros in total damage
In addition to extortion and considerably more crimes in the economic sector – high profits are promised in plant fraud – the detectives are currently mainly challenged by the “police trick”. False officials steal money and jewelery from older people under a pretext – such as a threatened burglary attempt.
damage in the millions
The perpetrators act very cleverly: “The criminals are psychologically well trained and put a lot of pressure on the victims,” explains Pfandler. The amount of damage throughout Austria has doubled within a year to almost 14 million euros. The Kripo chief warns of caution: “The executive branch never asks for assets and does not keep them. We also do not ask for bail.”
Tractors on the rise
The detectives also see themselves challenged when it comes to smuggling, with almost daily arrests: a smuggler was only arrested at the end of November after a wild chase with 24 people in the vehicle. Another challenge is narcotics: a significant increase of nearly 50 victims is recorded in the number of drug-related deaths.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
