Denver Police Launch DenverTrack Program to Combat Car Theft with Free Trackers
The Denver Police Department has unveiled an innovative initiative dubbed DenverTrack, aimed at reducing car thefts by distributing hundreds of free tracking devices, including Apple AirTags and Samsung SmartTags. This program runs from March 19 to March 21, during which the department will offer 450 Bluetooth trackers to residents, as highlighted in a recent press release.
How the DenverTrack Program Works
Participants in the DenverTrack program will “preauthorize” the Denver Police Department, enabling them to utilize GPS information provided by vehicle owners when a car is reported stolen. However, the police emphasize that they do not have direct access to the AirTag or SmartTag location data. This initiative is designed to empower car owners to track their stolen vehicles using a gadget that usually retails for around €18-€27.
What to Do If Your Vehicle is Stolen
In the unfortunate event of a car theft, vehicle owners are responsible for sharing their vehicle’s location with the responding officers. The press release notes:
“To accomplish this, the vehicle owner contacts their GPS service provider or accesses their Bluetooth tracker app and shares that location in real-time with officers. In certain situations, officers may work with victims to get verbal consent for their tracking service to give real-time updates to officers.”
How to Obtain Your Free Tracker
To get one of the free trackers, residents must register via the Auto Theft Prevention section on the Denver government website. Interested participants can find options for registering their vehicles under the DenverTrack Registration Events. Registration is required to attend one of the six district stations between 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. on March 19, 20, or 21.
What to Bring to Your Scheduled Appointment
Upon signing up, participants must arrive at their designated time slot with their vehicle registration information and the mobile device they wish to use for tracking. Volunteers will be available to assist with pairing the AirTag or SmartTag to ensure a smooth experience. Please note that walk-ins will not be accepted for this program.
After Registration: Displaying Your DenverTrack Decal
Even if you miss the opportunity to receive a free AirTag or SmartTag, you can still register for the DenverTrack program. After registration, owners will receive a DenverTrack decal through USPS, which should be affixed to the lower part of the driver’s side window. The decal alerts potential thieves that the vehicle is registered with DenverTrack and will be tracked if stolen. However, some experts caution that this could prompt thieves to locate and remove the tracker once they gain access to the vehicle.
Partnerships and Positive Impact on Auto Theft Rates
The Denver Police Department has partnered with the Colorado Auto Theft Prevention Authority (CATPA) to implement this Bluetooth tracker initiative, first launched in 2023. Although the overall budget for the program remains unclear, the police report a significant progress in combating car thefts, with auto thefts decreasing 33% from 2024. This decrease follows a previously reported 29% reduction from 2023 to 2024, according to law enforcement officials.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the DenverTrack Program
What is the DenverTrack program?
The DenverTrack program is an initiative by the Denver Police Department to distribute free Bluetooth trackers to help vehicle owners monitor their cars in case of theft.
How can I sign up for a free AirTag or SmartTag?
You can sign up for a free Apple AirTag or Samsung SmartTag by visiting the Auto Theft Prevention section of the Denver government website and registering for one of the scheduled time slots.
What information do I need to bring to the event?
Please bring your vehicle registration information and the mobile device you plan to use for tracking when you arrive for your time slot.
Are walk-ins allowed for the DenverTrack program?
No, walk-ins are not accepted. You must register for a specific time slot to receive a tracker.
What should I do if my vehicle is stolen?
If your vehicle is stolen, you will need to provide real-time GPS information from your tracker to the police, allowing them to assist in recovering your car.
Conclusion
The DenverTrack initiative not only empowers vehicle owners with tracking technology but also strengthens community efforts to combat vehicle theft. By participating in this program, residents can take proactive steps to safeguard their vehicles and assist law enforcement in recovering stolen property.