Colorado’s car thefts are down significantly, but relatively high nationally

DENVER (KDVR) — After a year of car theft rates leading to new laws in Colorado that increased theft penalties, the number of car thefts in Colorado dropped 21% in 2023 from 2022.

Authorities have reported rising auto thefts year after year since 2018. In 2023, there were 8,000 fewer vehicles stolen last year than in 2022, when 45,248 vehicles were reported stolen. The Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority credits this partly to the new legislation.

Two bills were passed in 2023 that impact vehicle thefts. One provided funding to communities to help fight auto theft, and a second increased the penalties for those responsible for stealing the vehicles.

CATPA is also crediting public awareness of the increased rate of car thefts, but the lower rates do not mean its time for anyone to let their guard down.

“This is no time to take rests and think that your vehicle is more secure because auto theft is down in Colorado,” said Cale Gould, CATPA program assistant. “Our auto theft still remains at a high rate nationally and that is something you need to be aware of, so we always encourage people to do the most basic steps you can take: lock your car and take your keys — but there’s always additional things you can and likely should do.”

CATPA suggests that drivers park in well-lit areas, take any valuables out of their vehicle whenever they leave it, and never leave the vehicle running unattended.

If your car is stolen, officials tell consumers to visit lockdownyourcar.org, a government website that provides tips, resources and more for people who want their car as safe as possible.