Title: Surge in Vehicle Thefts Sparks Urgent Warning in Statesville
Statesville, N.C. (WBTV) – The Statesville Police Department is raising alarm over a worrisome surge in motor vehicle thefts within the Statesville area. Since January 1, 2023, the police have responded to a staggering 75 reported cases of stolen motor vehicles, with a noticeable increase in incidents from January to August 18.
Authorities have discovered that many of these thefts could have been prevented, as they were linked to careless circumstances such as leaving cars unattended and running, with unlocked doors or keys left inside. In certain instances, the thieves resorted to lock-popping techniques and tampering with the ignition to gain access forcibly.
To date, the Statesville Police Department has recovered 43 out of the 75 reported stolen vehicles and has successfully apprehended five suspects in connection with these thefts.
Recent data from the Council on Criminal Justice’s mid-year report reveals a nationwide surge in motor vehicle thefts across several cities. Compared to the same period last year, there has been a troubling increase of approximately 34% in car thefts. The report highlights that a significant number of these thefts involve Kia and Hyundai models, partly due to instructional videos circulating on social media platforms. These videos teach individuals how to start cars using basic tools, contributing to the rise in vehicle thefts.
In response to this concerning trend, the Statesville Police Department is urging residents to proactively safeguard their vehicles and belongings. They advise citizens to remove all valuables from their vehicles and ensure that all doors are securely locked when unattended.
Efforts to combat vehicle thefts require collaboration from the community. If you have any information or tips relevant to these thefts, please reach out to the SPD at 704-878-3406 or via email at spd@statesvillenc.net. Rest assured, all information provided will remain confidential upon request. Remember to dial 911 in case of emergencies.
As the surge in vehicle thefts poses a threat to public safety and security, it is crucial for residents of Statesville to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement. By adopting preventive measures and reporting any suspicious activities, citizens can play an active role in mitigating vehicle theft incidents.
These troubling incidents serve as a reminder for everyone to remain cautious and responsible when it comes to vehicle security. Let us work together to safeguard our community and deter criminal activities.
