Author: Cale Gould

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.

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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.

 

Motor Vehicle Theft Nexus to Record Drug Bust

July 6th, 2023

Motor Vehicle Theft (MVT) has a role to play in nearly every crime. Drug trafficking is no exception. The West Metro Drug Task Force recorded one of their biggest busts ever, and those indicted also face charges of MVT. Read the full story Here.

Colorado Auto Theft Laws are Changing – CSP is Ready, are You?

June 27th, 2023
Press Release banner

June 23, 2023

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT
Colorado State Patrol Public Affairs Office
CSP_PublicAffairs@state.co.us
303-239-4583

Colorado Auto Theft Laws are Changing

Colorado State Patrol is Ready, Are You?

(COLORADO) – On June 2, 2023, Governor Jared Polis signed Senate Bill 2023-097 which will soon go into effect on July 1. The Colorado Revised Statutes concerning Motor Vehicle Theft (MVT) experienced a significant overhaul this past legislative session to further reduce Colorado’s Motor Vehicle Theft rates.

Beginning late in 2022, Colorado’s month-to-month motor vehicle theft incidents showed a slight decrease that has become substantially more pronounced over the last few months. With Colorado already down 22% in auto thefts from January 1 – April 30 2023 compared to 2022, the effects of SB23-097 will help further reduce our communities’ vehicle theft rate.

SB23-097 is a sweeping act that significantly changes how MVT crimes are classified, including a focus on repeat and prolific offenders. Previously the severity of MVT crimes was directly tied to the value of the stolen vehicle. Vehicles of low value had misdemeanor or low-level felony charges tied to them, whereas high-value vehicles led to more severe felony classifications. Colorado has now entirely moved away from this value-tied crime structure in favor of a more equitable classification.

The new classification will create a new MVT in the 3rd Degree charge and Unauthorized use of a Motor Vehicle charge. The Unauthorized use of a Motor Vehicle is explicitly for the situation where a vehicle is not used in the commission of any crime barring traffic offenses, is returned to the owner within 24 hours, and is not damaged in the process of this unauthorized use.  Unauthorized use is a class 1 Misdemeanor with an aggravator to a Class 5 Felony for any second or subsequent offenses.

All other incidents of MVT will either be MVT in the 2nd or 1st degree, which are Class 4 and Class 3 felonies, respectively. Prolific offenders with two or more convictions or adjudications for MVT will be charged with MVT in the 1st degree. MVT in the 2nd degree will be for someone who obtains, receives, or exercises control over a stolen motor vehicle and knew or should have reasonably known such. This includes retaining the vehicle for a period of greater than 24 hours, damage of the vehicle, the use of the vehicle in a crime other than a traffic offense, except for eluding, the purposeful act of altering a vehicle VIN, plate, or sticker, the concealment of the vehicle through physical alteration, and the use of license plates on the vehicle that are not belonging to that vehicle.

“For far too many years, auto theft was perceived as a victimless crime when the perceived value of a vehicle was low. In reality, it had a tremendous impact on the livelihoods of the vehicle owners and other community members when these vehicles were used to commit additional crimes,” stated Col. Mathew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “This law acknowledges every victim and will deter repeat offenders.”

With the passage of this legislation and other bills like SB23-257 that provides additional grant funding to law enforcement agencies, District Attorneys, prevention programs, intelligence systems, and victims’ resources. All contributing to the intense focus Colorado is placing on stopping motor vehicle theft.

“Overhauling the penalties associated with auto theft is an important part of changing Colorado’s auto theft landscape, but nothing can replace your role in protecting your vehicle,” explained Col. Packard.

What can you do? Keep taking the proper steps to secure your vehicle.

  • Lock your car and take your keys, every time. Establish those good routines of key management.
  • Keep your vehicle clean of incentivizing goodies like shopping bags, electronics, and tools.
  • Take additional measures if your vehicle is more than five years old, in an auto theft hot spot, or on the top ten most stolen list. Look into steering wheel locks, security/alarm systems, vehicle immobilizers, and environmental security factors.

Help law enforcement help you by making your vehicle a challenging target for thieves. Learn more about how to take these steps on lockdownyourcar.org

Colorado is moving towards stopping vehicle thefts in accordance with making Colorado one of the top ten safest states. The bright light of tomorrow is shining, and there is no place for car thieves in Colorado.

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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.

Attempted Catalytic Converter Theft Turns Violent

May 23rd, 2023

A man in Connecticut was assaulted when accidentally discovering two men likely intending to steal his catalytic converter. The victim was hit with a handgun before the assailants took his wallet and left. A stark reminder to never confront a catalytic converter thief. Full story Here.

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