Police have partnered with Hyundai USA to provide free steering wheel locks after a colossal increase in car thefts in Calverton Park, Missouri, multiple outlets reported Thursday.
Local authorities teamed up with the car company in hopes of curbing the substantial increase in the number of stolen Hyundais and Kias in the area, according to Fox2. Thieves have reportedly taken 142 Hyundais and 145 Kias in September, up from the two Hyundai and seven Kia vehicles stolen in the same month of 2021. The two car brands are allegedly sought out by thieves since they do not use smart key technology, apparently making them easier to swipe, the outlet noted.
“Well, unfortunately, it has become quite easy to steal a Kia or Hyundai,” Lt. Sean Gibbons told the outlet. “We have to combat that any way we can.” (RELATED: REPORT: Police Charge Homeless Algerian National Who Overstayed Her Visa With Murder Of 12-Year-Old French Girl)
Law enforcement said that the locks are free to residents who do not have engine immobilizers, KMOV noted.
St. Louis County town giving free steering wheel locks to Kia, Hyundai owners https://t.co/iIR2DzRfPS
— Newslanes (@newslanes) October 21, 2022
A similar program has been introduced at the Marquette University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the school’s University Police Department announced Thursday. Students and faculty who drive a Hyundai or a Kia can receive a steering wheel lock for free from the department.