Join Effort to Reduce Auto Theft

SALEM, Mass.- The Salem State College Police Department, in conjunction with the Governor's Auto Theft Strike Force, will hold "AUTO ETCHING DAY" as a deterrent to auto theft. This is an innovative and proven effective approach to combating auto theft.

The purpose of this program will be to mark the glass windows of automobiles and trucks with the vehicle's identification number (VIN) to make the vehicle less desirable to potential auto thieves. The chemical process of etching involves using acid that reacts only to the glass and does not mar or deface the windows. The VIN on vehicles is similar to a fingerprint because it is unique to the vehicle and allows it to be easily identified by law enforcement officials.

The Salem State College Police Department, in conjunction with the Governor's Auto Theft Strike Force, urges the community to participate in this program. Participants are eligible for up to 15% savings on their comprehensive auto insurance. The event will be held at the SSC Police Headquarters (Central Campus lot, 73 Loring Avenue) on Wednesday October 10 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The fee is $10 (cash only) per vehicle and the process should take only 10 to 15 minutes. No appointment is necessary and the etching will be done on a first come, first serve basis. For more information, contact SSC's Special Services Division at 978-542-6125.