In the first four months of 2024, the number of automobile thefts in Colorado is trending lower than in prior years by almost half, according to Colorado State Patrol (CSP).

As of Thursday, CSP reported a total of 8,109 car thefts this year. At the same time last year, that level was at 11,643, according to a CSP news release. 

In 2022, CSP reported 14,698 car thefts in the first four months of the year, marking a 45% reduction, or a reduction of 6,589 theft cases, this year compared to 2022, the release said.

While the reduction shows a positive trend, CSP warned vehicle owners to “remain vigilant” — reminding people to keep taking precautions to keep their cars safe. 

“The noticeable decline of auto theft is a testament to the resiliency of our citizens and collaborative effort of many law enforcement and key partners across the state,” CSP Chief Matthew Packard said in the release. “However, now is no time to relax your vehicle securities. That would be exactly what auto thieves are hoping for to make their crime easier.”

Car owners can take precautions by researching their car’s possible vulnerability and taking appropriate precautions, which can be found on lockdownyourcar.org, according to the release. 

Automobile theft is a “catalyst crime,” CSP said in the release, meaning the crime is often tied to a series of other crimes, such as reckless driving, drug crimes and weapons offenses.

“This current and continued reduction in auto theft is crucial to reducing all crime in Colorado,” according to the release.