SLMPD sees huge increase in Kia and Hyundai vehicle thefts

ST. LOUIS (KMOV) -- The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department said there have been more than double the amount of reported thefts of Kia and Hyundai vehicles than there were this time last year.

Police said criminals have learned how to quickly start older model Kias and Hyundais in a matter of seconds. Metro East resident Renae Moeller’s 2017 Kia was stolen Monday morning. It was quickly found but she was advised to utilize car club anti-theft devices to deter thieves. The device attaches to the steering wheel, effectively locking it in place.

There have been 284 Kia and Hyundai cars reported stolen in 2022 compared to 141 stolen at this point in 2021. Approx. 57.5 % of the stolen vehicles were either Kia an Hyundai.

Car clubs can be bought for $15 at the Five Star Senior Center on Arsenal Street. They can also be bought at City Hall. The Missouri Department of Revenue’s St. Louis City Hall Fee Office also carries license plate screws. Residents need to call the office at (314) 622-4231 to ensure availability beforehand and provide proof of residency to purchase a car club or license plate screws.