CATPA invites you to learn more about auto theft trends in Colorado through this quick watch interview with Great Day Colorado
Category: Press Releases
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
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Stolen Car Used in Homicide Chase
January 9th, 2024
A stolen car was used in an eluding incident that began with a homicide. Full story out of Pueblo, Colorado available Here.
Catalytic Converter Theft: Overview from NY Times
November 15th, 2023
A definitive overview of the catalytic converter theft problem, and the lifespan of the metals and how the raw materials are processed. Read more.
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.
Minnesota Catalytic Converter Law Goes Into Affect
August 3rd, 2023
As more and more States create specific laws to how to handle the recycling of catalytic converters, see what Minnesota is doing Here.
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
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Attempted Catalytic Converter Theft Turns Violent
May 23rd, 2023A 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.
Denver Gazette Highlights Auto Theft Reductions in Colorado
May 19th, 2023
The Denver Gazette follows up on the Q1 stats release from the Colorado State Patrol and the Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority, an in depth interview and detailed look at the changing landscape of auto theft in Colorado. Read the full story Here.
CATPA Releases Q1 2023 Theft Stats
May 19th, 2023
May 18, 2023
PRESS RELEASE
CONTACT
Colorado State Patrol Public Affairs Office
CSP_PublicAffairs@state.co.us
303-239-4583
2023 Auto Theft Trending Down – But It’s Still Not Time to Relax
(COLORADO) – A sliver of blue sky seems to be appearing, in what has been a growing storm of negative auto theft news in Colorado. The first quarter of 2023 shows a significant decline, a whopping 22% decline in auto theft versus 2022. The Q1 numbers of auto theft occurrences resemble numbers from 2020. While Coloradans, the Insurance Industry and law enforcement are happy with the improvements, the Colorado State Patrol business unit CATPA (Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority) wants to remind everyone that this decline does not mean it is a good time to become relaxed about vehicle security, now or ever!
“The noticeable decline of auto theft is a testament to the resiliency of our citizens and the collaborative effort of many law enforcement and key partners across the State,” stated Matthew C. Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. “However, now is no time to rest and relax your vehicle securities. CATPA and the Colorado State Patrol ask you to continue to stay in this fight to reduce auto theft and overall crime in your communities.”
Auto theft is a catalyst crime that often sets off a chain reaction of other crimes. These often include burglaries, smash and grab robberies, reckless driving, eluding, drug crimes, weapons offenses and many times crimes against persons that endanger all of Colorado.
CATPA and the Colorado State Patrol advise all citizens of the best way to combat vehicle theft through a dynamic approach to vehicle security beginning with the basics. Lock your car and take your keys – every time. This is simple, but vehicle owners and operators should practice this most basic vehicle security habitually. CATPA recommends establishing a “Lock and Key” routine that has all vehicle operators remove spare keys from the vehicle, including valet keys, then anytime the vehicle is not in use (including during quick trips inside convenience stores), to shut the vehicle off, take the keys out of the ignition and out of the car, then lock the car.
CATPA also advises additional security measures for owners of any vehicle on the Top Ten Most Stolen Car list, any vehicle in an Auto Theft Hot Spot, and any vehicle more than five years old. These additional security measures should consist of any combination of basic “Lock and Key” routine and: environmental changes (Parking the vulnerable vehicle in a garage or secured parking lot if possible), physical security hardening products like Steering Wheel Locks and Parking Boots, theft deterrent and immobilizing systems like kill switches, alarm systems and security systems that adhere to vehicle immobilizing standards (like the Canadian UL 338 standard). For vulnerable vehicles, CATPA has a limited supply of steering wheel locks for those unable to purchase one or for citizens already victimized by theft. Other resources like security software updates for Hyundai and Kia vehicles are another great step to take.
Colorado, continue your efforts to reduce your risk of becoming an auto theft victim 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.
Western Auto Theft Team Recognized for Reductions
April 28th, 2023
Read the full story Here
Top Ten Stolen Vehicles in Denver in early 2023
April 12th, 2023
The below Top Ten Stolen Vehicles in the Denver Metro Area lists the top stolen vehicles by make, model and year.
Free Steering Wheel Locks for Hyundai and Kia Vehicles
April 5th, 2023
The Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority is pleased to announce that we are a participating organization within the Hyundai and Kia efforts to dispel targeted thefts against their vehicles. Contact us via cdps_CATPA@state.co.us to learn more about how you may qualify for this program
Possible Relief for Recent Victims of Catalytic Converter Theft
March 29th, 2023The Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority, in cooperation with the Colorado State Legislature, has authorized a financial aid program to assist persons who had catalytic converters stolen in Colorado from their vehicles for a limited time, called the Catalytic Converter Assistance Program. Under this legislation, eligible individuals may receive financial assistance toward the replacement of their stolen catalytic converter.
READ FULL ARTICLE HERE: https://csp.colorado.gov/press-release/possible-relief-for-recent-victims-of-catalytic-converter-theft
Colorado State Patrol and State Partners Provide Information on Targeted Vehicle Theft Prevention
March 9th, 2023(COLORADO) – A recent analysis by the Colorado State Patrol (CSP), the Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority (CATPA) and its partners the Colorado Division of Insurance (DOI) and the Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has resulted in the necessary effort to alert consumers of targeted threats against certain motor vehicles.
Most of the vehicles are late model Kias and Hyundais, within the last decade of manufacture, that have traditional ignition systems that are started with a physical key. Criminals are not targeting Hyundais and Kias with touchless FOB ignition as much. Total theft of these makes has increased 82% from 2021 to 2022.
State Patrol and partners have seen an increase in vehicle thefts despite the vehicles meeting the US Market Security Standard for new automobiles. Some major auto insurance carriers are no longer writing new policies on these vehicles. The Colorado State Patrol, CATPA, DOI and DMV want to make Coloradans aware of target hardening options available to current owners of these vehicles – as well as businesses who buy or sell these vehicles.
Vehicle hardening methods are a way to improve vehicle security or deter vehicle theft through additional equipment implantation. Hyundai recently released an announcement that they are rolling out free anti-theft software for several of their targeted vehicles. This free upgrade by Hyundai service centers will include a marking decal to show updated security software on the vehicle. The 2017-20 Elantra, 2015-19 Sonata and 2020-21 Venue models are eligible for the upgrade currently, while other models will be eligible come June. However, the upgrade will not be compatible with all models. Owners of these vehicles wanting more information can contact Hyundai toll-free at 800-633-5151 or Kia at 800-333-4542. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) also issued a news release with additional info regarding the update.
CATPA not only recommends this manufacturer update, but also asks owners of these targeted vehicles to consider additional vehicle hardening equipment. Vehicle theft is not only extremely costly to the owner, but to all of Colorado; stolen vehicles are often used in the commission of other crimes and this all leads to increasing insurance premiums. Auto theft hurts all Coloradans. Additional vehicle hardening equipment may come in the form of physical deterrent and theft prevention devices like steering wheel locks, parking boots and other physical vehicle feature limiting devices.
Other recommendations for heightened vehicle security equipment include the installation of aftermarket security systems that provide the physical deterrent features of car alarms and GPS tracking. The CATPA preference for most efficient vehicle hardening upgrade would be to engage a qualified repair facility for the addition of a vehicle immobilizing system. These systems are complex and create several layers of anti-theft security that greatly reduce the rate of vehicle theft, when used.
CO Theft Data – Hyundai and Kia info for the Calendar Year 2022 – Study Sources
Pie Graph 1. The Colorado Department of Revenue for motor vehicle registrations for Hyundai and Kia vehicles occurring from January 1, 2022 through December 31, 2022. Pie Graph 2. The Colorado Stolen Vehicle Database Repository for stolen vehicles reported to the Colorado Crime Information Center from January 1, 2022 through December 31, 2022.
Consumers with questions about their insurance can contact the Colorado Division of Insurance Consumer Services Team – 303-894-7490 / DORA_Insurance@state.co..us / doi.colorado.gov (click on “File a Complaint”).
