The Florence Police Department has received a grant for steering wheel locks to help residents protect themselves from the uptick of Kia and Hyundai vehicle thefts.
“We heard about it from other departments that had already been in the program,” Florence Police Department Lt. Jeffrey Mallery said. “I believe Covington and Independence have had it. We contacted Kia and Hyundai and they were willing to donate the locks. They sent us just over 50 (locks).”
Mallery said the distribution, which began on June 19, is on a first come, first served basis and added once Florence residents visit the police department headquarters at the Florence Government Center and produce proof of residency and registration for the impacted vehicle model – a free steering wheel lock will be provided.
“People were showing other people how to start certain models of the cars with screwdrivers or even USB ports,” Mallery said with regard to videos available on varied social media platforms. “There was a big rise in the thefts of those types of cars. So Kia and Hyundai offered the locks to counteract that.”
According to the Florence Police Department, the steering wheel locks are available for 2011 to 2023 Kia models using a steel ignition key while Hyundai steering wheel locks are available for 2011 to 2021 models with a keyed ignition and no immobilizer.
The automakers have indicated it has provided consumers with tens of thousands of free steering wheel locks through local law enforcement or direct shipment to impacted owners.
“We appreciate the opportunity to provide additional support for our owners who have been impacted by increasing and persistent criminal activity targeting our vehicles,” Hyundai Motor North America Chief Legal Officer Jason Erb said via a media release. “Customer security remains a top priority, and we’re committed to continuing software upgrade installations and steering wheel lock distribution to help prevent thefts and offering insurance options through AAA for those who have had difficulty securing and sustaining coverage.”
With regard to general securing of vehicles, locking the car and refraining from leaving keys in the car are a couple of tips Mallery offered motorists.
“It’s amazing how many people do that,” he said. “Don’t go into a store and leave your car running outside the store. Don’t leave it unattended. A lot of these crimes are crimes of opportunity – where people will see a car running, jump in it and take off. Whether it’s a key fob or a regular key, take it out of the car.”