A SMALL STEP TO HELP KEEP AUTO THEFT DOWN

WHY PREVENTION STILL MATTERS

Recent Grand Rapids Police Department data show encouraging movement in both motor vehicle theft and larceny/theft. While the numbers are below their displayed three-year rolling averages, prevention still matters.

One stolen vehicle can turn a household's week upside down, from an insurance deductible and missed work to disrupted appointments and finding other transportation.

Locking doors and removing valuables also helps reduce opportunities for theft from vehicles.

ADD ANOTHER LAYER OF PROTECTION

This fall, West Grand Neighborhood Organization (WGNO) is offering free VIN glass etching. Staff place a small, permanent marking of your vehicle's Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) onto its glass.

The process takes about 5–10 minutes. Because etched glass would need to be replaced to disguise a vehicle for resale, VIN etching can make a stolen vehicle harder to disguise and resell.

Some insurers may offer discounts for qualifying anti-theft measures. Ask your insurer whether VIN etching qualifies under your policy. Discounts are not guaranteed.

Source: Grand Rapids Police Department, Crimes Against Property Dashboard, citywide snapshot, September 23, 2026.

This program is supported by a grant from the Michigan Automobile Theft Prevention Authority.