Author: Cale Gould

Colorado Shares Emerging Technology for Vehicle Theft Forensics

February 17th, 2026

The Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority (CATPA) and the Metropolitan Auto Theft Task Force are proud to unveil the newest tool in forensic crime investigation.

The BlindSite Scene from Smytec is a handheld, portable forensic camera designed to law enforcement to detect and capture evidence—such as latent fingerprints (invisible or hidden impressions left on surfaces by sweat, oils, and other substances from friction ridge skin on fingers, palms, or feet), DNA, and body fluids—without the need for chemical enhancement.

“CATPA is proud to support programs like the CATPA-Metropolitan Auto Theft Task Force, who strive to be on the cutting edge of investigative techniques.” Says CATPA Director Robert Force, “Investments in technologies like the Smytek device improve these investigations, by reducing the time for evidence processing and success in evidence capture. These factors all increase the strength of the investigations and support our goal to make Colorado safer by enhancing enforcement and prosecution strategies to better address the complex crime of auto theft.”

CATPA and CMATT would like to invite our media partners to come see this exciting new crime fighting tool firsthand. Dr. Alexander Smyth, CEO at Smytec, will be on hand at the Lakewood Police Department on 2/4/26 from 10:00 A.M. to 3:00 P.M. to train law enforcement, speak to media about this tool and to demonstrate its capabilities.

If you are interested in attending and speaking to Dr. Smyth and/or members of local law enforcement, please contact Cale Gould at 303-656-1524 or cale.gould@state.co.us. You can learn more about the BlindSite Scene at https://www.smytec-ltd.com/blindsite/.

Colorado Shares Preliminary 2025 Auto Theft Information

February 17th, 2026

Colorado Continues to Drive Down Auto Theft in 2025

This marks three consecutive years of decline

(COLORADO) – Colorado is starting the New Year with some good news – the Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority (CATPA) and the Colorado State Patrol are pleased to announce that Colorado saw further reductions of auto theft in 2025.

Colorado is on a positive trend in reducing motor vehicle theft, and 2025 marks the third consecutive year of reductions. This past year, Colorado saw the most drastic percentage reduction yet, with a 34% decline in auto theft compared to 2024. This also represents a significant 61% reduction in auto theft incidents since 2022. These reductions ensure less financial harm to individuals, safer roads to travel on, and safer communities for all of us to enjoy. Reducing auto theft is a key strategy in our efforts to make Colorado a safer place overall.

Coloradans are asked to continue their theft prevention routines, locking their car, and taking their keys every time.

“We know drivers have been doing more than this to prevent vehicle theft, and there has never been a better time to continue going the extra mile to take these preventative steps,” stated Col. Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “From steering wheel locks to GPS trackers and kill switches, everything you do makes a substantial impact on preventing auto theft in 2026 and beyond.”

Learn how to keep your car safe at the Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority web page. Featuring the latest articles and information for preventing auto theft in Colorado. If you are a victim of auto theft, please learn more about our Victim’s Assistance program available to residents of Colorado. All data is covered under the Colorado State Patrol Auto Theft Data Disclaimer [1]

[1] Stolen vehicle data is sourced from the Stolen Vehicle Data Repository (SVDR) which provides law enforcement reporting of stolen vehicles to the Colorado Crime Information Center (CCIC). The SVDR is managed by the Auto Theft Intelligence Coordination Center (ATICC), a grant project funded by the Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority. The SVDR contains information on the number of reported stolen vehicles, data results may vary from the Colorado Bureau of Investigations crime data on the incidence (or police cases) of motor vehicle theft/attempts inputted into UCR/NIBRS as reported by Colorado law enforcement agencies. Additionally, information contained in the SVDR is considered dynamic as modifications to records are made on a daily basis. Stolen vehicle records were screened for accuracy and normalized for standardization prior to use in this analysis. Percentages are rounded to the nearest percent.

Other important preliminary data show that the Top 10 most stolen vehicles in Colorado in 2025 were:

  1. Chevrolet Silverado
  2. Hyundai Elantra
  3. Hyundai Sonata
  4. Ford F-150
  5. GMC Sierra
  6. Ford F-250
  7. Jeep Cherokee
  8. Honda Civic
  9. Kia Optima
  10. Honda Accord

The Top 10 Theft Cities were

  1. Denver
  2. Aurora
  3. Colorado Springs
  4. Pueblo
  5. Lakewood
  6. Westminster
  7. Thornton
  8. Commerce City
  9. Greeley
  10. Littleton

While auto theft went down Statewide, here is how auto theft changed across Colorado’s regions:

Table

Colorado Continues Rapid Decline in Catalytic Converter Theft Rates

September 24th, 2025

Colorado is happy to report that amongst concentrated efforts from legislative changes, enforcement operations, and a strong effort from the recycling industry; catalytic converter thefts continue to decline. While the economic impact of catalytic converter thefts remain impactful to those victims, Colorado is happy to report there are less victims so far this year than in the previous several. Full report below,

 Converter Analysis Mid Year 2025

2024 Annual Report – Auto Theft Intelligence Coordination Center

April 15th, 2025

Colorado Auto Theft Annual Report_2024_009001 (1)

 

Colorado State Patrol Releases Analytical Review of 2024 Auto Theft Data

(COLORADO)—While deep into 2025, the Colorado State Patrol’s Auto Theft Intelligence Coordination Center (ATICC) has dotted the I’s and crossed the T’s on its comprehensive review of Colorado’s auto theft in 2024. This extensive analytical product is the flagship report of this unit and represents the most critical criminal analysis of this expansive type of crime.

Summarizing the report into a few key findings:

  • Colorado witnessed a substantial improvement in statewide reported stolen vehicles, registering a notable 25% decrease in reported stolen vehicles by volume in 2024, amounting to 8,401 fewer thefts, compared to reported vehicle thefts in 2023. This positive trend continues with the 21% decrease observed in 2023. Colorado experienced 24,575 reported stolen vehicles in 2024, averaging a per capita rate of 415 stolen vehicles per 100,000 residents, compared to 32,976 reported stolen vehicles in 2023, averaging a per capita rate of 560 stolen vehicles per 100,000 residents. (SVDR, 2019-2024)

 

  • The recovery rate for 2024 stands at 82%, marking the lowest point in the 5-year comparison. (ATICC, SVDR, 2019-2024) An estimated $353,241,050 ATL is related to the 24,575 reported stolen vehicles in 2024 versus the ATL for 2023 at $430,897,392 (32,976 thefts), reducing the ATL by $77,656,342. (ATICC, ATL Calculation, 2023)

 

  • The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) published the “2024 Vehicle Theft Trend Report” on March 18, 2025, shedding light on Colorado’s motor vehicle theft rank per capita. In 2024, NICB ranked Colorado as the #4 spot for thefts per capita in the U.S.

 

  • Aligning with previous reporting years, 2024 motor vehicle theft data demonstrates that an average of 63% of reported stolen vehicles are recovered outside the municipality where the motor vehicle theft occurred, indicating the crime of motor vehicle theft is a multijurisdictional criminal event. This is a 12% increase compared to the 2023 findings. (ATICC, SVDR, 2019-2024)
  • In 2024, the Chevrolet Silverado (1071 thefts) and Hyundai Elantra (969 thefts) emerged as the highest volume of reported stolen vehicles. (ATICC, SVDR, 2019-2024)

 

  • Hyundai and Kia manufactured vehicles collectively accounted for 19% of all reported stolen vehicles in the state, totaling 4,560 out of the 24,575 vehicles stolen in 2024 versus Hyundai and Kia manufacturers offered a free anti-theft software update for certain models in February 2023 that appear to support the downward trajectory of Hyundai and Kia thefts statewide. (ATICC, SVDR, 2019- 2024)

 

  • Insights from Colorado Courts data for 2024 reveal that 77% of filed motor vehicle theft cases also involved additional criminal charges related to the motor vehicle theft incident. (Colorado Courts,2020-2024)

 

  • The 2024 Colorado Courts data indicate that 13% of auto theft cases filed carried additional charges associated with violent crime.

 

This means that a lot of the great things that your local law enforcement, local government, the State government, and every vehicle owner in Colorado are doing – are working. Auto theft continues to fall dramatically. This does not mean you can take a break or relax your vehicle security habits. While the Colorado State Patrol works daily to reduce motor vehicle theft, we need to leverage our largest stakeholder to guarantee success for every single vehicle operator further. Continue to lock your car and take your keys every time. Then, know when and how to do more by visiting lockdownyourcar.org, where you can find a full list of best vehicle security habits, tools for additional security, and even a resource list of where to find a free steering wheel lock!

Our mission is to make Colorado safer, and every locked car goes a long way to achieving this; through our partnerships, we can eliminate auto theft; thank you for continuing to be an active participant in your vehicle safety.

Colorado State Patrol Free Steering Wheel Lock FAQ

July 1st, 2024

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How steering wheel locks can I have? Any Colorado resident may have up to 1 per person 
  2. Where can I pick up my free steering wheel lock? Check out the handy location guide available Here
  3. . What do I need to bring? Current vehicle registration and a Colorado Driver’s License 
  4. The location nearest to me is out, when will they have more? We strive to provide supplies to our troop offices as quickly as possible for ease of public distribution but have been happily surprised by the recent public interest. All estimated restock dates are available on the quick check location guide, available Here. 
  5. When will this program end? This program currently has no set end date but supplies may be limited

Going…Going…Gone: Basic Security Practices to Fight Auto Theft

March 25th, 2024

PRESS RELEASE

 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT

Cale Gould

CATPA Program Assistant II

Statewide Public Outreach Coordinator 

Work (303) 656 1524

cale.gould@state.co.us | cdps_catpa@state.co.us

Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority Launches

“Going. Going. Gone.” Campaign to Combat Auto Theft

DENVER, March 25 — With the rise of auto theft incidents, the Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority recognizes the critical need for proactive measures. In just 18 seconds, a vehicle can vanish. A new initiative, the “Going. Going. Gone.” Auto Theft Awareness Campaign aims to raise awareness, educate residents, and ultimately decrease the alarming rate of auto theft across the state.

“Our goal is to bring awareness and educate the market on the serious auto theft concerns in Colorado,” said Cale Gould, Statewide Public Outreach Coordinator, Department of Public Safety. “With more than 600 cars stolen each week, Colorado holds the unfortunate distinction of having the highest number of stolen cars per capita in the nation. We are committed to reversing this trend.”

Here are some quick tips to help prevent auto theft and keep your ride safe:

  • Never leave your car running unattended.
  • Always keep your car doors locked when driving or parked.
  • Always park in well-lit areas.
  • Don’t store firearms in your car.
  • Avoid leaving documents with your address in the glove box. (Only keep half of the registration slip without your address in your car.)
  • Don’t keep a spare set of keys in the car.
  • Keep all valuables in the trunk or hidden from view.
  • If you are approached, do not roll down the windows or open a door.
  • When buying a used vehicle, always check the VIN to ensure it hasn’t been stolen. Visit NICB for more information.
  • Manage your risk- buy comprehensive insurance that covers stolen vehicles. Also, consider getting gap insurance.

Coloradans can visit the website LockDownYourCar.org, which has this information designed to equip Coloradans with essential knowledge and tools to safeguard their vehicles.

Ace Hardware stores across the state support this important campaign by promoting safety tips in store and offer special promotions for customers to help them keep their cars and homes safe.

The success of the “Going. Going. Gone.” campaign relies on collaboration with various stakeholders, including the insurance industry, vehicle manufacturers, new and used car dealers, automotive repair industry, Denver International Airport, apartment/housing complexes, RTD park and rides, and, most importantly, all Coloradans.

The campaign seeks to empower communities to combat auto theft effectively. As part of the campaign, Coloradans can anticipate engaging contests and events across the state, and also exclusive merchandise. These initiatives aim to foster community involvement and encourage active participation in auto theft prevention efforts.

For more information about the “Going. Going. Gone.” campaign and to access valuable resources, please visit LockDownYourCar.org.

Learn more about basic via security on the Resources page.

 

2023 Auto Theft Intelligence Coordination Center Annual Report

March 22nd, 2024

(COLORADO) – The Colorado State Patrol, Auto Theft Intelligence Coordination Center has released their annual report detailing the findings of auto theft incidents across Colorado.

Colorado Auto Theft Annual Report_2023_FOR PUBLIC RELEASE (FLAT)

Notable Findings include:

  • Colorado witnessed a substantial improvement in statewide reported stolen vehicles, registering a notable 21% decrease in reported stolen vehicles by volume in 2023, amounting to 8,680 fewer thefts, compared to reported vehicle thefts in 2022. This positive trend contrasts with the 12% increase observed in Colorado experienced 32,976 reported stolen vehicles in 2023, averaging a per capita rate of 560 stolen vehicles per 100,000 residents, compared to 41,656 reported stolen vehicles in 2022, averaging a per capita rate of 713 stolen vehicles per 100,000 residents. (1)
  • An estimated $430,897,392 of value was related to the 32,976 reported stolen vehicles in 2023. (2)
  • In a 5-year comparison from 2018 through 2022, Colorado experienced a notable 98% increase in reported stolen vehicles. However, the landscape shifted in 2023 with a significant 21% decrease in reported stolen vehicles, altering the overall five-year comparison for 2019-2023 to reflect a 62% increase in reported stolen vehicles. This reduction in 2023 played a crucial role in decelerating Colorado’s motor vehicle theft pace when compared to the earlier years of 2018-2022. (SVDR)
  • Examining the rate of reported stolen vehicles per capita over the past five (5) years reveals a 56% increase. In 2019, the rate was 358 reported stolen vehicles per 100,000 residents, rising to 560 reported stolen vehicles per 100,000 residents in 2023. (SVDR)
  • Aligning with previous reporting years, 2023 motor vehicle theft data demonstrates that 51% of reported stolen vehicles are recovered outside the municipality where the motor vehicle theft occurred, indicating the crime of motor vehicle theft is a multijurisdictional criminal event. (SVDR)
  • Insights from Colorado Courts data for 2023 reveal that out of 4,763 cases/dockets filed, 76% (3,615 cases) involved additional criminal charges related to the motor vehicle theft incident. (Courts MVT and Associated Offense Charge Data, 2020-2023)vii
  • Breaking down the 4,763 cases/dockets filed in 2023 revealed that 1,148 cases (24%) were singularly charged with motor vehicle theft. This insight is drawn from the detailed data provided by the Colorado Courts MVT and Associated Offense Charge Data for the year 2020-2023.
  • The 2023 Colorado Courts data indicates that 563 (12%) of the cases/dockets filed carried charges associated with violent crimes linked to motor vehicle theft, aligning with the definition of “Crime of Violence” as per the Colorado Revised Statute.viii
  • The charge of “F3, Aggravated Motor Vehicle Theft w/Two Prior” convictions or adjudications were contained in 191 cases/dockets filed in 2023, approximately 4% of the total. (3) (4)
  • Hyundai Elantra (1332 thefts) and Chevrolet Silverado (1285 thefts) emerged as the highest volume of reported stolen vehicles. (SVDR)
  • Hyundai and Kia manufactured vehicles collectively accounted for 23% of all reported stolen vehicles in the state, totaling 7,722 out of the 32,976 vehicles stolen in 2023, as per the data provided by the SVDR.

What does this mean? Colorado has made significant strides to reducing auto theft statewide. While incidents of auto theft remain high, comparatively to a national average, Coloradans across the State have stepped up to stop auto theft. From legislative changes, law enforcement strategy changes, to the invaluable efforts made by the public everyday to secure their vehicles. Through continued partnerships we hope to help further reduce auto theft. Despite these positive trends we can not stress enough, now is no time to become relaxed with vehicle security. Continued public engagement and action is paramount to continued reduction of auto theft Statewide. For more information on stopping auto theft, learning more about auto theft trends, and to become involved with our victim’s assistance or vehicle hardening programs, please visit lockdownyourcar.org

Colorado Auto Theft Annual Report_2023_FOR PUBLIC RELEASE (FLAT)

Auto Theft Down in Colorado in 2023

January 19th, 2024
CSP_CATPA

January 19, 2024

PRESS RELEASE

 

CONTACT                                                               CONTACT
Colorado State Patrol Public Affairs Office              Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority
CSP_PublicAffairs@state.co.us                              CDPS_CATPA@state.co.us
303-239-4583                                                          303-239-4560

Auto Theft Down Statewide in 2023

(COLORADO) – Halfway through 2023, the Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority (CATPA) and the Colorado State Patrol saw a clear decline in auto theft incidents throughout the state. We are pleased to report that trend held throughout the whole year, with Colorado seeing a reduction in auto theft of approximately 21% from 2022 to 2023. This sizeable reduction is welcome news to the many Coloradoans affected by motor vehicle theft and the many associated crimes.

The noticeable decline in auto theft in 2023 resulted in 8,000 fewer stolen vehicles than in 2022. This reduction in vehicle theft comes on the heels of sustained increases in motor vehicle theft since 2019.

So, what has changed in Colorado that’s had such a dramatic effect on auto theft incidents? A lot and everything. Legislative changes such as SB23-097, which went into effect July 1, completely changed the structure of the auto theft statute in Colorado, and SB23-257, which increased program funding for auto theft prevention programs, to a community focus from local government, law enforcement, and every Coloradoan. The general focus on reducing auto theft has stemmed across Colorado and has taken root within local communities. Colorado has shown reductions statewide and regionally, as has every CATPA region.

While a reduction in auto theft is a welcome reprieve, it does not mean that Coloradoans are in the clear from being future auto theft victims. Auto theft incidents remain at a high level, and vehicle owners should not become complacent. CATPA and the Colorado State Patrol advise all citizens that the best way to combat vehicle theft is through a dynamic approach to vehicle security, beginning with the basics, like locking your doors every time.

Coloradoans should continue efforts to reduce their risk of becoming auto theft victims and perform a self-risk assessment using tools available at lockdownyourcar.org.  A combination of public awareness and mindfulness is an essential partnership for reducing auto theft – and all crime in Colorado.

###

 

About Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority (CATPA):
CATPA is a state authority that was established by Colorado statute in 2003 to help reduce Colorado’s serious auto theft problem through the award of grant funds. The Colorado law helps ensure that auto theft prevention efforts are targeted. These efforts have resulted in an increase in stolen vehicle recoveries and criminal prosecutions of major organized criminal groups, as well as related crimes.


ABOUT THE COLORADO STATE PATROL
Since our origin in 1935, the Colorado State Patrol (CSP) has focused on preserving human life and protecting property within our communities. Our 1,100 members embody the core values of Honor, Duty, and Respect in their daily jobs.  In addition to our expertise in motor vehicle safety on the state’s roadways, the CSP is responsible for the Governor and other dignitaries’ protection, commercial motor vehicle enforcement, hazardous materials, homeland security, communications, investigative services, criminal interdiction, community education, aviation operations, and more. For additional information, visit us online at Colorado State Patrol or follow us on Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, or Facebook.

 

Colorado State Patrol
On-Call Public Information Officer:  303.239.4583
www.csp.colorado.gov

Catalytic Converter Thefts Down in TN: A Sign of Changing Trends?

October 4th, 2023

Reports from Tennessee indicate that through the analysis of National Insurance Crime Bureau data, catalytic converter theft insurance claims are trending downward. At least in Tennessee, and maybe in Colorado as well.  While the data in this study only represents insurance claims made against these thefts, the downward trend is encouraging. The important thing to not here is that this data represents only claims made on policies for catalytic converter thefts, thus missing out on the largest share of the total catalytic converter thefts from vehicles that did not have total comprehensive coverage or claims that excluded catalytic converter theft repairs. Look into the “BeenVerified” map to view Colorado’s insurance claims against catalytic converter thefts. Full article on Tennessee trends Here.

Denver Man Shot Trying to Recover Stolen Vehicle

October 3rd, 2023

A Denver man was injured via a gun shot wound while trying to recover his stolen vehicle. This highlights the dangers of confronting someone in a stolen vehicle. Always contact law enforcement if you see a stolen vehicle. Full story here.

Colorado Cracks Down on Fake Temporary Registration

August 8th, 2023

A popular “Prop document” retailer in Denver has been court ordered to stop production of their documents, and has had their assets frozen. Full story here at CBS tells the story of investigative efforts by the Colorado Department of Law.

Woman Shot Attempting to Recover Her Stolen Vehicle

July 11th, 2023

A woman was shot after she discovered her 2020 Silver Kia Optima had been stolen and used an air tag to track it down Sunday night, according to the Aurora Police Department. Read the full story Here A stark reminder to never approach a stolen car without the assistance of local law enforcement.

 

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