V.I.N. Etching and Watch Your Car Program Event - April 14 - Community Advisory

The Takoma Park Police Department, in partnership with the MD/DC Anti-Car Theft Committee, will be hosting a V.I.N. Etching event on Saturday, April 14, 2012, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the police station parking lot (7500 Maple Avenue).

V.I.N. (Vehicle Identification Number) etching is a security technique in which your vehicle’s V.I.N. is permanently etched into all the glass panes of your vehicle. It is a proven vehicle-theft deterrent, as criminals tend to avoid vehicles that have been etched because it is harder for "chop shops" to make profit off of V.I.N.-etched vehicles.

In addition, during the event, you will be able to enroll in the "Watch Your Car" program and immediately receive the program decals that need to be affixed to your vehicle. It is a way for police officers to ensure your vehicle is not being driven by an unauthorized driver. A sticker is displayed in your vehicle window, so both officers and criminals know you are participating in the program.

Both services are FREE!

Please contact Officer Carla Magnaye at 301-891-7121 or at carlam@takomagov.org with any questions.

More information on the program can be viewed online at http://www.mdautotheft.org/