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California experienced the highest number of stolen vehicles
overall in 2021, with more than 200,000 vehicles taken. The top
five states for vehicular crime – California, Illinois, Florida,
Colorado and Texas – accounted for 412,008 cars stolen. Those
who speculated that it was a “pandemic thing” may rethink that
notion as the problem continues.
Over 1,300 carjackings have occurred in the Chicago area this
year.
There was a huge spike in car thefts in Illinois this past
summer with two models, Kia and Hyundai, the most at risk.
According to police, videos on social media explaining how to
steal the cars appear to be at the center of a 767% increase in
vehicle thefts.
One new law expands the offense of possession of burglary tools
to include possession of a device that unlocks or starts a
vehicle without possession of the key fob, or which captures a
duplicate signal from a key fob to unlock or start a vehicle.
Another law that goes into effect provides grants and financial
support to assist with the identification, apprehension and
prosecution of car hijackers and the recovery of stolen
vehicles.
Robert Passmore, department vice president with the American
Property Casualty Insurance Association, said the surge in
vehicle thefts may lead to higher insurance rates, including for
comprehensive coverage.
“The difference in cost might lead some people not to get it,
but that's what you would need to protect yourself if you're
concerned about your vehicle being stolen or having the
catalytic converter stolen,” Passmore said.
A third law ensures those who are victims of a carjacking are
not liable for violations, fees, or other penalties if the
vehicle owner files a police report in a timely manner.
Kevin Bessler reports on statewide issues in
Illinois for the Center Square. He has over 30 years of
experience in radio news reporting throughout the Midwest.
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