Former Avis Employee Stole 47 Cars in $1M Rental Scheme

Major Car Rental Theft Scheme Uncovered at Syracuse Airport

A former Avis Budget employee has been charged with orchestrating one of the largest rental car theft schemes in recent memory, allegedly stealing 47 vehicles worth over $1 million from Syracuse Hancock International Airport and operating his own unauthorized rental business.

The Elaborate Operation

Milton Thompson III, 31, a former employee at the Avis Budget location at Syracuse Hancock International Airport, is accused of systematically stealing vehicles between June and August 2025. According to police reports, Thompson used his insider knowledge and employee access privileges to take 47 vehicles valued at approximately $1 million (€860,000) and then rented them out at various locations throughout Onondaga County.

'This represents one of the most sophisticated internal theft operations we've seen in the rental car industry,' said a spokesperson for the Syracuse Regional Airport Authority Airport Police Department in an interview with CNY Central.

Investigation and Recovery Efforts

Authorities have made significant progress in recovering the stolen fleet, with 42 of the 47 vehicles already located and returned to Avis Budget. The investigation has revealed that Thompson did not act alone - several other individuals have been arrested for their alleged involvement in the scheme, specifically for 'unlawful use of motor vehicles.'

'We're working closely with Avis Budget and have recovered the majority of the stolen vehicles, but the suspect remains at large,' confirmed an investigator from the Onondaga County District Attorney's Office in a statement to Hoodline.

Security Concerns in Rental Industry

The case has raised serious questions about security protocols within major rental car companies. Thompson's ability to steal nearly 50 vehicles over a three-month period without detection highlights potential vulnerabilities in inventory management and employee oversight systems.

Avis Budget has acknowledged the situation and is cooperating fully with law enforcement. 'We take these allegations very seriously and are working closely with authorities in their investigation,' a company representative told Fortune. 'The security of our fleet and the trust of our customers are our highest priorities.'

Ongoing Manhunt

Thompson faces multiple felony charges including grand larceny and scheme to defraud. Authorities are actively seeking information about his whereabouts and have asked the public to contact the Syracuse Regional Airport Authority Airport Police Department at 315-455-3500 with any tips.

The case continues to develop as investigators work to locate the remaining five missing vehicles and determine the full scope of the operation. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the potential for internal theft in industries with high-value mobile assets.