In light of rising summertime theft rates and statistics indicating that the majority of stolen cars were left unlocked or had keys inside, Maryland State Police and the Maryland Vehicle Theft Prevention Council are advising drivers to exercise caution during National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month.
According to the press release, during July’s National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month, drivers are being reminded by the Maryland State Police and the Maryland Vehicle Theft Prevention Council to take preventative measures to safeguard their vehicles.
Summertime is a dangerous season for drivers to let their guard down because of the spike in vehicle theft. According to the MVTPC, every 22 minutes, a car is stolen in Maryland; 60% of these vehicles were left unlocked, and 50% of them had the keys or fob inside. 95% of the stolen cars had no anti-theft devices, and the majority of these thefts take place at night. According to official data, a car is stolen nationwide every 37 seconds, with over 850,000 vehicles being stolen in 2024 alone, resulting in losses of over $8 billion.
In order to combat car theft and related crimes and to raise public awareness, the MVTPC continues to collaborate with local enforcement and neighborhood organizations throughout Maryland. MVTPC, which was established by the Maryland General Assembly in 1994, has contributed to a statewide decrease in auto theft of almost 37%.
MVTPC provided $2.4 million in grants for enforcement, outreach, and education programs in Fiscal Year 2026. This includes backing programs like its yearly public service announcement competition, which asks college and university students in Maryland to create original, powerful messages about preventing and raising awareness of auto theft.
Use these pointers to lock the burglars out and stop them from leaving in your car:
- Always take your keys or fob with you never leave them in or on your vehicle
- Close and lock all windows and doors when parked
- Park in well-lit areas and remove all valuables, especially visible electronics and bags
- Never leave your vehicle running unattended
- Use anti-theft devices, such as steering wheel locks, brake pedal locks, and OBD port locks
