Cumberland, PA. DA & ATPA Offer Free VIN Etching

17 June 1999

       Vehicle Identification Numbers Etched Onto Vehicle Windows as a
                          Means of Theft Prevention

    CARLISLE, Pa. -- The Commissioners of Cumberland County announced today that 
Saturday, June 19 is proclaimed "Watch Your Car" day.  As part of Cumberland 
County's car theft fighting initiatives, the Cumberland County District 
Attorney's Office along with the Automobile Theft Prevention Authority (ATPA) 
will be holding a free VIN etching event on Saturday, June 19 from 10:00 a.m. 
to 1:00 p.m. at the MJ Mall, Carlisle.

    This is the first VIN etching in Carlisle.  VIN etching is a proven theft
deterrent, where the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is etched on to all
the vehicle windows.  Would-be thieves resist stealing a vehicle that is
VIN-etched because that vehicle is more easily identified and, if stolen, all
glass must be replaced in order to remove traces of the VIN.

    This is a free service provided by the Cumberland County District
Attorney's Office and the ATPA.  ATPA staff, Cumberland County employees,
state and local police officers, and volunteers from State Farm Insurance
Company will etch the VIN on the first 400 vehicles.  The ATPA encourages you
to spend some time with them on Saturday morning to help protect your vehicle.

    Pre-event questions should be directed to ATPA Executive Director Roy
Miller, at 717-975-9074.