Category: Press Releases

2025 Auto Theft Annual Report

March 26th, 2026

(COLORADO) – Building off the earlier press release citing continued auto theft reductions, the Colorado State Patrol business unit, the Auto Theft Intelligence Coordination Center (ATICC), completed their annual statistical review of all Statewide auto theft data.Information like this allows critical decision makers to understand the crime of auto theft on both a macro and micro levels; and to then make timely decisions
on how to prevent and counteract this crime. From C-Suite leaders to the public, this report has critical takeaways for anyone with an interest or a question about auto theft. This complex long-term analysis
cumulates into the document attached, the 2025 Colorado Auto Theft Annual Report.

Highlights of this report include:

• Colorado marked its third consecutive year of motor vehicle theft (MVT) reductions, experiencing a substantial 34% decline in auto theft for the calendar year 2025 compared to 2024. This decline represents a 56% reduction in auto theft since 2021.

• The National Trend indicated vehicle thefts falling 23% nationally in 2025 compared to 2024.

• Theft Rate: Colorado’s thefts by volume of 16,291 in 2025, ranked 14th in the nation. The motor vehicle theft rate per capita of 271 per 100,000 residents in 2025, ranked 6 the worst, a significant improvement
from the number one (1) worst ranking in 2021.

• Recovery Rate: Of the 16,291 reported auto thefts in 2025, 80% (13,084) were recovered in 2025. The total recoveries reported in 2025, regardless of theft date, were 14,452.

• Economic Factor: There was an approximate $257 million average total loss (ATL) based on ATICC’s value assessment.

• Colorado Courts related to MVT: In 2025, Colorado Courts recorded 3,443 cases encompassing 11,482 charges related to or associated with motor vehicle theft.

• Top Stolen Vehicles: In 2025, the SUV topped the list of most stolen vehicles by style at 4,853 followed by the passenger car at 4,725. The Chevrolet Silverado was the most stolen vehicle by make and model
and the 2013 Hyundai Elantra was the most-at-risk stolen vehicle by year, make, and model in the state. Hyundai and Kia continue to rank amongst the top 10 most stolen vehicles by make with a combined 2,445 stolen in 2025, accounting for approximately 15% of total thefts.

• Denver International Airport (DEN): In 2025, DEN reported 94 auto thefts within a two and a half (2.5) mile radius, which indicates an 87% decrease compared to 713 in 2023. This can be attributed to a multi-faceted approach which includes measures initiated by the Governor’s office, the Colorado Department of Public Safety (CDPS), the Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority (CATPA), the Beat Auto Theft Through Law Enforcement (BATTLE), the CATPA Metropolitan Auto Theft Task Force (CMATT), Denver
Police Department (DPD), and Denver International Airport.

• The Governor’s office implemented a Wildly Important Goal (WIG) of 35% statewide reduction for the crime of motor vehicle theft for July 2025 – June 2026. Preliminary statistics from July 2025 through February 2026 indicate a 39% decrease.

“Many of these key findings represent excellent progress in the fight against the crime of auto theft; but as we look to further safeguard our cars and our communities, we need additional commitment from every driver. Locking your cars and taking your keys is the bare minimum, but with tools from the Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority – like free steering wheel locks at State Patrol offices, this is the best time to do more to protect our roads and our communities from the dangerous crime of auto theft” Col. Matt Packard, Chief of the Colorado State Patrol, stated. While 2025 was a landmark year in reductions, help us keep Colorado and your car safe by locking your car, taking your keys, keeping a clean car, and parking smarter. We are looking forward to another great year just like this year – thanks to the continual commitment from our Colorado vehicle owners.

Stay safe.

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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.

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

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

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.

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

Multi-agency logo

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 Stats release 5-18-23

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.

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