A news release yesterday from the National Insurance Crime Bureau reported a large spike in the number of auto thefts in 2020 compared to 2019. The NICB’s initial study showed 873,080 auto thefts in 2020 which is a 9.2 percent increase from 2019, a year that saw 799,644 thefts. That’s a difference of more than 73,000 thefts. 

“Preliminary reports indicate a sharp increase in automobile thefts for 2020,” said NICB President and CEO David Glawe. “All indications are 2020 will be the largest theft year in the past decade by a significant margin.”

The past year was fraught with new challenges and unique circumstances including a global pandemic and poor economy, which likely contributed to the number of thefts.

"Based on the preliminary nature of the data, the cause of this increase will require a thorough intelligence assessment,” said Glawe. “Considerations such as the pandemic, economic downturn, loss of juvenile outreach programs and public safety budgetary and resource limitations are likely contributing factors. Thieves exploit opportunities and may look for vehicles parked in the same location or citizens not taking proper measures to secure their vehicles.”

The release also states there was an increase in auto thefts every month in 2020 compared to 2019, with double digit increases in the months of June through December. 

Auto Thefts 2019 vs 2020

To avoid becoming a victim of auto theft, the NICB recommends the following four layers of protection to guard against vehicle theft:

1. Common sense. Vehicle owners should always remove keys from the ignition, lock doors and windows, and park in well-lit areas.

2. Warning devices. These include visible and audible alarms. Aftermarket alarms are available for all makes and models of cars. Visual devices include column collars, steering wheel locks, and brake locks. 

3. Immobilizing devices. The third layer of protection prevents thieves from bypassing the ignition and hot-wiring the vehicle. Some examples are smart keys; fuse cut-offs; kill switches; starter, ignition, and fuel pump disablers; and wireless ignition authentication. 

4. Tracking devices. Tracking devices are very effective in helping authorities recover stolen vehicles. Some systems combine GPS and wireless technologies to allow remote monitoring of a vehicle. If the vehicle is moved, the system will alert the owner, and the vehicle can be tracked via computer.

If you see something say something by contacting local law enforcement if you suspect questionable activity in your neighborhood.