COLORADO, USA — AAA Colorado and the Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority (CATPA) have joined forces to give Coloradans free devices to help stop automotive theft.
The insurance company called it a "first-of-its kind" partnership to fight car and catalytic converter theft.
CATPA said car theft and related crimes are surging in the state. CATPA saw up to a 1,000% increase in catalytic converter theft over 2019 in some areas, and overall automotive theft is up 57% percent in 2020.
>Video above: Here's how you could potentially prevent your catalytic converter from being stolen
"It's no secret that having a car stolen or disabled by thieves carries devastating effects for Coloradans and their families," said Col. Matthew Packard, chief of the Colorado State Patrol. "What's more, vehicles are commonly stolen to commit other crimes. Protecting against auto theft protects our communities, plain and simple."
Several shops in Colorado are offering free catalytic converter theft protection. A technician will apply a non-removable etched ID number to the catalytic converter and have it registered in the theft protection base. Now, it makes it easier for mechanics, law enforcement, and recyclers to ensure the owner's converter isn't stolen.
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