Rising Car Thefts in Cities Across the U.S.
                      
 
 
 
Rising Car Thefts in 
Cities Across the U.S. 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Rising Car Thefts in Cities Across the U.S. 
 
Tuesday, July 24, 2023. 
Car thefts in numerous U.S. cities have surged this year, as reported by a new crime 
study. The rise in motor vehicle thefts is about 34% compared to the same period last 
year, indicating changes in crime patterns post-pandemic. The mid-year data, published 
by the Council on Criminal Justice, highlights how online trends can influence real-world 
crime. 
The report suggests that much of the increase may be due to thefts of Kia and Hyundai 
models, but the rates were already climbing before they became popular targets. 
The thefts of Kia and Hyundai cars spread rapidly across cities after a TikTok challenge 
demonstrated how to steal them. 
The numbers 
The number of car thefts in the first six months of this year was 104.3% higher than in 
the same period of 2019. 
 
 
 
Of the 32 cities that provided crime data, seven saw rates skyrocket 100% or even more 
compared to the previous year. Rochester, New York, witnessed the biggest increase in 
vehicle thefts, with a peak of 355%, while St. Paul, Minnesota, experienced a 41% drop. 
Hyundai and Kia have received numerous lawsuits from multiple jurisdictions, citing 
significant increases in vehicle thefts, the companies responded to the problem by 
introducing new anti-theft software earlier this year. The theft of a motor vehicle is a 
"fundamental crime" that facilitates the commission of other crimes, including 
homicides. 
Most vehicle thefts are linked to other crimes, such as violent and property-related 
crimes, including selling stolen vehicles. While car thefts are on the rise, homicides and 
other violent crimes have declined in the first half of 2023. 
 
Despite serious violent crime being far below historical peaks, it remains at an 
intolerably high level, particularly in poorer communities of color, according to the 
report. 
 
 
The report emphasized the need for urgent action from policymakers and communities 
to adjust their strategies in response to emerging challenges. Additionally, they referred 
to research identifying measures that enhance fairness and effectiveness in policing 
while reducing violence. 
The report underscored that intensive efforts on both fronts are crucial to aid cities in 
achieving enduring reductions in homicide and other criminal activities.