Stay One Step Ahead: Maryland’s Vehicle Theft Prevention Month Focuses On Awareness, Outreach, Security

(PIKESVILLE, MD) – Maryland State Police and the Maryland Vehicle Theft Prevention Council are urging motorists to take precautions against vehicle thefts as part of National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month in July.

Taking proactive measures to prevent vehicle theft is even more important today. Nationally, vehicle thefts have increased 25 percent from 2019 to 2023, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Maryland experienced a significant increase in vehicle thefts from 2022 to 2023 due in large part to the national trend of Kia and Hyundai thefts being on the rise. Overall, a car is stolen 32 seconds in the United States and every 47 minutes in Maryland, according to the Maryland Vehicle Theft Prevention Council.

Leaving vehicles unlocked or with keys or your fob inside are the primary causes of vehicle thefts. The stolen vehicles are then sold for parts or used to commit other crimes. Citizens must remain vigilant in safeguarding themselves and their property. Here are some simple, effective methods to prevent vehicle theft:

• Utilize an anti-theft device
• Park in well-lit areas
• Close and lock all windows and doors when parked
• Put away your valuables
• Do not leave your keys or fob in your vehicle
• Do not leave the area while your vehicle is running

Collaborative outreach efforts continue to take place throughout the year to address vehicle theft. The Vehicle Theft Prevention Council distributed $2.5 million in grants statewide for Fiscal Year 2025. In January the Maryland Department of State Police teamed up with the Vehicle Theft Prevention Council to provide free steering wheel locks to Hyundai and Kia owners. Established by the Maryland General Assembly in 1994, the Vehicle Theft Prevention Council significantly reduced vehicle thefts in Maryland by almost 70% between 1994 and 2022.

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CONTACT: Office of Media Communications, msp.media@maryland.gov