Police Department

Protect Your Vehicle from Auto Theft

Vehicle anti-theft devices can be an important tool to keep your property safe. Installing anti-theft devices on your vehicle can reduce the chances your auto will be stolen and may earn you discounts on your car insurance premiums. These auto theft deterrents – from steering wheel locks to kill switches and alarms – can deter criminals from stealing your mode of transportation.

For more information, visit the Washington Auto Theft Prevention Authority (WATPA) website. WATPA was created as a result of the Washington Legislature’s desire to change trends in car theft. The Elizabeth Nowak-Washington Auto Theft Prevention Act was enacted in 2007. In addition to changes in the laws dealing with motor vehicle theft, the Act created the Washington Auto Theft Prevention Authority (WATPA) in the Washington Association of Sheriffs and Police Chiefs (WASPC). The WATPA account provides grant funds to law enforcement agencies to combat vehicle theft. Expenditures from the grant are used for activities related to motor vehicle theft and include education, prevention, and investigation.

These are some of the more commonly stolen vehicles:

• Honda Civic and Accord, model years 1983 through 2005
• Toyota Camry, model years 1984 through 2005
• Subaru Legacy, model years 1990 through 2005
• Jeep Cherokee, model years 1985 through 2000
• Ford Explorer, model years 1990 through 2005
• Dodge Caravan, model years 1985 through 2010
• Ford Escape/Escort, model years 1990 through 2000
• Subaru Impreza, model years 1990 through 2005
• Nissan Sentra, model years 1985 through 2000
• Ford Pick-Up Trucks, model years 1990 through 2006
• Chevrolet Pick-Up Trucks, model years 1990 through 2006