Maryland Authorities Urge Vigilance as Summer Season Sees Spike in Vehicle Thefts

Maryland State Police, in conjunction with the Maryland Vehicle Theft Prevention Council (MVTPC), is issuing a renewed call for public awareness and preventative measures as the month of July marks National Vehicle Theft Prevention Month. The summer months, traditionally a period when vehicle thefts see an increase, present a heightened risk for drivers, and officials are emphasizing the importance of basic security practices. Statistics from the MVTPC indicate that a vehicle is stolen in Maryland every 27 minutes, with a significant majority of these incidents involving vehicles that were left unlocked or had keys or fobs still inside.

The collaboration between the Maryland State Police and the MVTPC aims to educate the public on straightforward yet effective strategies to deter car thieves. These recommendations are designed to empower vehicle owners to protect their property and belongings. Key advice includes always taking keys or fobs when leaving a vehicle, ensuring all windows and doors are securely closed and locked when parked, and choosing well-lit areas for parking. Furthermore, motorists are advised to remove all valuables, particularly electronics and bags that might be visible, from their vehicles. Leaving a vehicle running unattended is also a practice that significantly increases the risk of theft.

For those seeking to enhance their vehicle’s security, the MVTPC suggests the use of anti-theft devices. These can range from physical deterrents like steering wheel locks and brake pedal locks to electronic security measures such as OBD port locks. The MVTPC has been instrumental in the ongoing effort to combat vehicle theft across the state, working in partnership with law enforcement agencies and community groups. Since its establishment by the Maryland General Assembly in 1994, the council has contributed to a substantial decrease in vehicle thefts, with a statewide reduction of nearly 37%.

To further bolster these preventative efforts, the MVTPC allocated $2.2 million in grants for Fiscal Year 2027. These funds are dedicated to supporting initiatives focused on enforcement, public outreach, and educational programs. Among these initiatives is an annual public service announcement (PSA) contest that encourages college and university students throughout Maryland to develop creative and compelling messages aimed at raising awareness about vehicle theft and its prevention.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Maryland Department of State Police.

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