FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Governor Tom Wolf Reappoints Chairman Ronald W. Kosh and Names New Members to PA Auto Theft Prevention Authority Board

Mechanicsburg, Pennsylvania (July 31, 2018) – Pennsylvania Governor Tom Wolf announced the reappointment of Ronald W. Kosh to Pennsylvania’s Auto Theft Prevention Authority (ATPA). His appointment extends through January of 2022.

As a member of the board for the past 13 years, Kosh has been chairman for the preceding four years and also previously served as treasurer. He brings a wealth of industry experience as the former vice president of public and government affairs for AAA Mid-Atlantic and as CEO of AAA Potomac. “We are pleased Ron will be able to continue his valuable contributions to our mission,” said Steven Wheeler, executive director of ATPA. “He has helped guide ATPA’s success in reducing vehicle crime in the state and has always encouraged a strong commitment to operational efficiencies, accountability, enforcement and public education.”

Governor Wolf also announced the appointment of two new board members, Scott P. Sherry and Jeff VanSteenbergen, both of whom represent the insurance industry in the central and western parts of the state. With 25 years of experience in the property and casualty industry, Sherry is an associate vice president of personal lines claims for Nationwide Insurance overseeing claims in Pennsylvania and New England. “I look forward to working with my fellow board members to continue to provide an impressive return on investment for the insurers who fund ATPA’s grantees,” said Sherry. “Pennsylvania is fortunate to have this robust organization that continues to help keep auto insurance rates low.” ATPA funding comes from assessments to insurers who write auto policies in the state; ATPA does not use tax dollars and estimates a $6 return on investment in reduced theft rates and in the recovery of stolen vehicles and parts.

VanSteenbergen is the Pennsylvania material damage manager for AAA. “Few states have dedicated auto theft prevention teams, let alone one as proactive and results-oriented as this –– having built measurable success over decades,” explained VanSteenbergen. “Most states have eliminated funding for prevention and enforcement of auto theft –– to the detriment of the driving public. I am pleased to join the board to ensure Pennsylvania continues its downward trend of auto theft and continues to raise awareness of the far-reaching effects of vehicle crime.”

Created in 1994 by the state General Assembly, the Pennsylvania Auto Theft Prevention Authority provides grants statewide to law enforcement agencies with the goal of reducing auto theft. Since inception, vehicle theft rates in Pennsylvania have decreased 77 percent, compared to a national decrease of 50 percent. For more information, please visit www.watchyourcar.org.