MPD: Over 3,000 vehicle thefts in Minneapolis this year; 8 tips to prevent them

More than 3,000 vehicles have been stolen in the city of Minneapolis so far this year — an average of more than 14 per day.

Not only is that a staggering number, it’s also a sharp increase over past years.

In 2020 and 2021, city data shows just shy of 2,300 vehicle thefts to this point of the year (2,266 and 2,289, respectively) — or three-and-a-half fewer theft reports per day. In 2019, vehicle thefts at this point of the year were barely more than half (1,567) of this year’s total.

Minneapolis Police says the nationwide trend of thieves targeting Kia and Hyundai vehicles has reached the city, which may partially contribute to the increase in vehicle thefts. However, in June alone, 592 vehicle thefts were reported in the city. The next highest monthly report: 494 this month. January is the only other month this year with above 400 vehicle theft reports.

MPD urged residents to take a few steps to protect their vehicle from theft:

• Use an anti-theft device, such as a steering wheel lock.
• Lock all vehicle doors.
• Take keys and fobs with you. The department says almost one-third of thefts involve keys or fobs left in the vehicle.
• Close all windows.
• Park in well-lit areas.
• Install an audible alarm system.
• Install a vehicle immobilizer system, which can prevent the engine from starting without the correct key or fob.
• Install a tracking system or use a tracking app with a supported device.

If your vehicle is stolen, call police immediately and have certain information — including the license plate and vehicle identification numbers, and the vehicle’s year, make, model, color and unique characteristics — readily available to provide to investigators.

Police also recommend contacting your insurance company within 24 hours.