Released: December 1, 2008

The Department of Insurance Louisiana Automobile Theft and Insurance Fraud Prevention Authority (LATIFPA) will be conducting presentations at middle schools in Bossier City, Benton and Plain Dealing on December 2, 3 and 4, on Auto Theft Prevention Awareness. This public awareness program kicked off last year and is designed to educate middle and high school students in Louisiana’s public and private schools about the consequences of auto theft, according to Commissioner of Insurance Jim Donelon. The program is sponsored by LATIFPA, a division within the Department of Insurance.

Commissioner Donelon said the auto theft program is offered through one and two hour school curriculums that are be presented by the LATIFPA staff in conjunction with local law enforcement. The program is being made available to schools in areas where there are high rates of juvenile auto theft and auto-related criminal activities. LATIFPA staff estimates approximately 7,000 students will participate in the program in this school year.

“Research indicates that auto theft is a gateway crime that potentially leads adolescents to more destructive behavior,” said Commissioner Donelon. “This program explores the relationship among the parties involved when an auto theft occurs and the impact the theft has on the offender’s family and the individual victim, and the long term effect this illegal activity has on the community as a whole.” The program also encourages good driving habits and educates young drivers on how to prevent auto thefts.

The LATIFPA will partner with insurance company claims managers, juvenile court judges, law enforcement agencies and school officials to present these programs.

School officials interested in learning more about the program should contact Denise Cassano, LATIFPA Director, at (225) 342-0819 or Kevin Smith, LATIFPA Deputy Director at (225) 219-0452.

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