The Coral Gables Police Department conducted its vehicle identification number (VIN) etching program on Saturday, July 24, in an effort to curb auto theft.

The VIN Etch Program has been sponsored by the department for the past 10 years and is made available to city residents throughout the year. It is the process by which the vehicle’s identification number is chemically etched into all of the windows. The program’s objective is to help the police department track stolen vehicles and to deter auto theft.

"Auto theft is a big problem in Dade County and this program helps to identify parts that have been stolen," said Sgt. Craig Leveen, director of media relations and public information for the Coral Gables Police Department. "Through this program we can help to deter professional thieves that steal cars for their parts because with the VIN number etched into the windows, they can be traced back to the original owners, and no thief wants that."

In the past, the department has used a liquid acid method to etch the numbers, but has recently switched to a gel acid. The VIN number is punched into the department’s computer and printed from a special machine onto labels that are then placed over the glass area to be etched. A gel acid is rolled over the labels, which etches the numbers into the glass. The process is non-obtrusive and does not affect the appearance of the vehicle.

"The result is very subtle, not ugly at all. Best of all it is effective," said Leveen, who has been with the department for 19 years. "The department used to use a liquid acid, but it was very messy and took a lot more time to process a car. This new method is great."

The program is made available to the residents of Coral Gables free of charge, with the police department picking up the tab. The etching kits cost $2.95 per unit, and the department purchased 500 units. The special printer is provided free of charge by Automark, the company that furnishes the kits. Car dealerships normally charge anywhere from $75 to $100 for the same etching service. Last month the department was able to process a total of 46 cars.

"This is one of the pro-active things we are trying to do to prevent auto theft," Leveen said. "This is one more tool in trying to discourage a potential theft. We really encourage all of the residents of Coral Gables to participate and bring in their cars, it is worth it."

This was the second VIN etching held by the department this year. Along with the department’s crime prevention staff working on the cars were the Coral Gables Police Explorers, high school students who volunteer for and are involved with the department.

For more information on the program and to find out when the program will again be made available, call 305-460-5401.