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9, 2000 Auto theft has lifetime consequences Jump in Theft Claims, Controversial Movie Prompts MPI Theft Prevention Initiative, Reminder Opening day for the controversial new movie about car theft, Gone in 60 Seconds, is also the day that MPI is introducing a new tool in the fight against theft in Manitoba. "It may only take seconds for a professional thief to steal a vehicle as depicted in the movie, but a criminal record can last a lifetime," says MPI Road Safety Official Dennis Bell. "Stealing a vehicle is a serious matter and is dealt with harshly by the justice system and other agencies, including Manitoba Public Insurance." The consequences of a theft conviction can affect future employment opportunities, entry to other countries and can result in denial of a driver's licence and vehicle insurance. As part of its ongoing battle against auto theft, MPI is launching a pilot program to remind vehicle owners about the steps they can take to prevent theft of a vehicle or its contents and to gather more information about how well vehicles are protected from theft. This summer, students working for MPI will audit various Manitoba parking lots in search of vehicles that may be easy targets for auto thieves. A detailed audit sheet will be left under the wipers of all automobiles in the lot. This checklist will provide tips for motorists to "harden the target" against theft, draw attention to specific things that might interest a thief - such as unlocked doors or a briefcase on the seat - and will applaud owners who have taken steps to prevent theft. Another important part of the project will be to gather data on how well protected Manitoba vehicles are against theft. This information will help MPI refine future theft prevention awareness initiatives. The students will be wearing high-visibility vests to ensure that parking lot patrons are aware of their presence in providing positive information about preventing theft. Later in the summer, MPI hopes to work with community crime prevention and other volunteer agencies on similar initiatives. "While MPI is doing everything in its power to prevent auto theft - taking individual precautions is the best safeguard," says Bell. "That's why this initiative focuses on assisting individuals to take steps to protect their vehicles." Last year a $100 rebate towards a basic deductible was offered by MPI to vehicle owners who had used an anti-theft device that was defeated by a thief. The popular Combat Auto Theft (CAT) program - which allows owners of vehicles not normally driven in the overnight hours to register their vehicles with police --is also supported by MPI. Whether or not your vehicle is stolen, every motorists is affected by theft. MPI's recently-released annual report shows the number of theft of vehicle claims in Manitoba increased to more than 9,500 from about 8,800 last year. While most vehicles are recovered fairly quickly, police reports show stolen vehicles are often used in the commission of other crimes, such as break-and-enter, and are frequently recovered in a damaged condition, sometimes after a high-speed chase. Theft-Prevention Tips:
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