Category: Reports

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.

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.

Stolen Colorado Car Causes Havoc in Wyo

April 6th, 2023

A pair of Colorado thieves used a stolen car to go on a crime spree in Wyoming. Help us stop secondary crimes, Lock Your Car and Take Your Keys. Every Time. And for vehicles that are over five years old, on the top ten most targeted vehicle list, or if you live in a auto theft hot spot be sure to consider additional vehicle security measures like steering wheel locks and aftermarket security/immobilizer systems. Contact us to learn more!

Full story Here.

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