H.E.A.T. Auto Theft Notes Reduction in Car Crimes in Michigan

H.E.A.T. (Help Eliminate Auto Thefts) has responded to statistics released by the Auto Theft Prevention Authority (ATPA) that indicate a decrease in auto theft in metro Detroit and across the state in 2004.

“After the increase in 2003, Michigan residents became aware of the need to assist local law enforcement in cracking down on auto crime in their neighborhoods,” said Terri Miller, director of HEAT. “Resources like the HEAT tip line offer a safe, anonymous way to empower residents to report criminal activity and help recover stolen property.”

HEAT is a partnership of Michigan’s auto insurance companies, law enforcement and residents. The HEAT program encourages citizen action through its toll-free tip line (1-800-242-HEAT) that gives financial rewards to people who provide information leading to the arrest and prosecution of individuals for auto theft, auto-related identity theft, carjacking and chop shops.

2004 Numbers Reveal Decline in Auto Theft

* From 2003 to 2004, auto thefts in Michigan declined 6.2 percent, according to the ATPA. This compares with a nationwide decrease of 1.9 percent. In 2004, 49,982 vehicles were reported stolen in Michigan, compared with 53,307 in 2003. Data for the 2005 calendar year is not available until February 2007.

* From 1986 to 2004, Michigan auto thefts declined 30.6 percent and national thefts increased by 1.1 percent.

* Michigan comprised 4 percent of United States auto theft activity in 2004.

* The City of Detroit saw auto thefts decrease 3.1 percent, from 25,356 in 2003 to 24,573 in 2004.

* Among Michigan’s larger cities, declines in auto theft were seen in:
— Battle Creek – from 230 in 2003 to 181 in 2004
— Dearborn – from 1,317 in 2003 to 1,037 in 2004
— Detroit – from 25,356 in 2003 to 24,573 in 2004
— Harper Woods – from 435 in 2003 to 281 in 2004
— Kalamazoo – from 395 in 2003 to 313 in 2004
— Southfield – from 1,126 in 2003 to 813 in 2004
— Warren – from 1,587 in 2003 to 1,402 in 2004
* Among Michigan’s cities, increases in auto theft occurred in:
— Flint – from 1,298 in 2003 to 1,563 in 2004
— Inkster – from 219 in 2003 to 340 in 2004
— Lincoln Park – from 302 in 2003 to 342 in 2004
— Pontiac – from 409 in 2003 to 469 in 2004
— Saginaw – from 280 in 2003 to 332 in 2004.