Security technology helps drive massive drop in California auto thefts

Advances in technology - such as GPS tracking and license plate recognition systems - along with increased enforcement and education programs for the public led to a more than 15-percent drop in California vehicle thefts in 2009, according to statistics from the California Highway Patrol.

That drop was the largest in decades, in addition to being the fourth consecutive year in which auto thefts dropped. Since 2005, vehicle thefts have fallen 35 percent.

"In order to put thieves out of business and keep from becoming a victim, we must remain vigilant in our efforts," said California Highway Patrol Commissioner Joe Farrow. "Vehicle theft is a crime of opportunity," he added. "Citizens are on the front lines when it comes to prevention."

The CHP says that of all the vehicles stolen last year, more than 88 percent were recovered, a 2.2 percent increase over the previous year.

Among those vehicles that were stolen, Honda Accords and Civics were taken with the most frequency. CHP statistics found that different model years of the two vehicles accounted for all of the state's 14 highest theft rates.

• Home Security News
• Articles
• Security technology helps drive massive drop in California auto thefts

• GPS Tracking

Secure your Home, Call Today! 1-800-951-5193