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Auto Theft on the Rise in Michigan: Residents Offered Tips on Keeping Vehicles Safe

Prevent Auto Theft: Drivers Reminded to ‘Lock It or Lose It’

LANSING, Mich. (November 3, 2017) – The Michigan Automobile Theft Prevention Authority (ATPA) cautions the public that auto thefts are on the rise in Michigan. In 2016, Michigan reported 20,477 stolen vehicles and current data indicates that 2017 is on track to potentially surpass those numbers.
A vehicle is stolen every 44 seconds in the United States with nearly half of those thefts involving an unlocked door or keys left in the ignition. In addition to locking your vehicle and taking keys with you, these precautions could lessen the likelihood of you becoming a victim of auto theft:
Closing windows when your vehicle is parked
Avoiding leaving valuables in your vehicle, especially where they can be seen
Not leaving your vehicle running unattended
Parking in well-lit areas
Keeping your vehicle in your garage, if possible
Keeping exterior house lights on at night
Installing a car alarm or using a theft deterrent device like a steering wheel lock or gear shift column lock
You should also keep an eye out for suspicious vehicles in your neighborhood. If you see out-of-place persons, report them to law enforcement immediately. If you are purchasing or selling a vehicle on an online sales site, complete the transaction during business hours at a police department or Secretary of State office.  Never invite strangers to your home or meet in non-public places. Always inspect the vehicle title closely before purchase and if anything looks odd, postpone the sale until you can confirm its legitimacy.
Over the last 10 years, Michigan’s Automobile Theft Prevention Authority (ATPA) has assisted in the reduction of motor vehicle thefts in Michigan by 56 percent. The ATPA awards grants to law enforcement agencies, prosecutors’ offices and non-profit organizations for the investigation, apprehension, prosecution and prevention of motor vehicle thefts. During the 2016 grant year, ATPA grant-funded motor vehicle theft teams made 1,819 arrests and recovered vehicles and parts worth approximately $37 million. For more information about the ATPA, visit www.michigan.gov/atpa.

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