AZ. Auto Theft Authority News & Updates
________________________________________________________________
For Immediate Release
May 17, 2010

AUTO THEFT DOWN IN PHOENIX AND TUCSON
FOR 2009
PHOENIX - The National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB) reports that 2009 marked
the nation’s sixth consecutive year of declining vehicle thefts in the United States.
The 2009 “Hot Spots” report shows the Phoenix and Tucson MSA’s (metropolitan
statistical areas) made an impressive leap down the list in 2009; Phoenix dropped to
40th place, Tucson to 24th. This marks a significant improvement for both cities,
particularly Phoenix, once labeled the car theft capital of the U.S. In 2001, Phoenix
and Tucson both held the #1 and #2 spots on the list and remained on the top ten list
until 2008.
“Many factors go into this drastic reduction of auto theft in Arizona,” stated Brian R.
Salata, Arizona Automobile Theft Authority Executive Director. “Our law
enforcement partners have made incredible strides in the battle against auto theft.
The AATA has partnered with local law enforcement in their efforts to isolate the
problems that exist in their communities. We’ve seen outstanding efforts by several
CountySheriffs to coordinate efforts with local, state, and federal agencies to take on
this battle.

The Arizona Vehicle Theft Task Force has been one, if not the most, recognized law
enforcement units in the United States in combating auto theft. The AATA also
recognizes the efforts of our prosecutors who have worked with law enforcement to
ensure that the guilty are brought to justice.” Director Salata went on to say that “we
can’t lose sight of the fact that our auto theft problem in Arizona is directly tied to the
smuggling and trafficking issues that have plagued our state. Auto theft s a crime
that significantly facilitates the flow of narcotics and illegal aliens throughout Arizona
and we can’t let up efforts despite these encouraging numbers.”
The Auto Theft Task Force is presently working with local, state and federal
agencies to thwart smuggling activities by the cartels operating south of our border.
Last year, the Task Force recovered 3,100 vehicles worth over $43 million; hundreds
of suspects were arrested and dozens of chop shops shut down.
The use of bait cars, technological automobile locating/identifying devices and
owner-applied theft deterrence/recovery systems are also delivering outstanding
results.
“This is great news for the citizens of Arizona and our statewide law enforcement
partners. The Arizona Legislature had the foresight to create an Auto Theft Authority
to support and coordinate the statewide efforts of law enforcement, prosecution and
prevention in the fight against auto theft. California overwhelmingly dominates the
list of “Hot Spots, they would do well to follow Arizona’s lead.” stated Director Salata.
For 2009, the 10 Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSA) with the highest vehicle theft
rates are:
2009 Ranking
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
24.
40.
62.

Laredo, TX
Modesto, CA
Bakersfield, CA
Stockton, CA
Fresno, CA
Yakima, WA
San Francisco/Oakland/Fremont, CA
Visalia/Porterville, CA
Las Vegas/Paradise, NV
Albuquerque, NM
Tucson, AZ
Phoenix, AZ
Yuma, AZ

2008 Ranking
2
1
5
6
10
3
9
11
7
8
13
19
26

The AATA recommends the following actions under its “layered approach” to
protection plan:
Layer #1 -- Common Sense
•
Always lock your car, close all windows and take the keys.

•
•
•
•
•

Avoid vehicle burglaries - do not leave valuables in vehicle or make certain
they’re not in plain view.
Never leave your vehicle running unattended.
Park in high foot traffic, well lighted areas or attended lots - car thieves do not
like witnesses.
Do not hide a spare set of keys in the car - the pros know where to look.
If you have a garage, use it.

Layer #2 -- Visible & Audible Warning Devices
The second layer of protection is any device that can be SEEN or HEARD and alerts
thieves that your vehicle is protected. Some popular examples include:
•
Audible alarms, steering wheel locks, brake locks
•
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) etching on vehicle windows – visit the
AATA’s website (www.azwatchyourcar.com – Events calendar) for a list of
upcoming events.
Layer #3 – Immobilizers
The third layer of protection is immobilizer devices which prevent thieves from
bypassing your ignition and hot-wiring the vehicle. Some popular devices include:
•
Kill switches
•
Starter, ignition and fuel disablers
•
Smart keys
•
High security locks & keys
•
Fuse cut-offs
Layer #4 -- Tracking Devices
The final layer of protection is a tracking device which emits a signal to a police or
monitoring station when the vehicle is reported stolen. Tracking devices are very
effective in helping authorities recover stolen vehicles.
For additional information about the Arizona Automobile Theft Authority, visit
www.azwatchyourcar.com . For complete information on the 2009 Hot Spots
Report, visit www.nicb.org .

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