Hochul unveils plan to combat alarming number of car thefts in New York State

Gov. Kathy Hochul has unveiled a plan that includes $55 million to help law enforcement agencies combat a surge in car thefts, particularly certain models of Hyundais and Kias.

Erie and Niagara counties are expected to be among the counties that will receive significant funding and focus, due to their high rates of car theft.

“Too many New Yorkers have experienced the shock of waking up to an empty driveway or the heartbreak of seeing one of their most valuable possessions disappear,” Hochul said. “That is why we are supporting local law enforcement to prosecute and prevent these thefts, and ensuring car owners are taking appropriate steps to safeguard their vehicles.”

Car thefts in Erie County were up 213% in the first seven months of this year, compared to the same period a year ago, according to the governor’s office. In nearby Monroe County, car thefts soared 345% from a year ago. Combined, those two counties accounted for about two thirds of the car thefts in the state outside of New York City.

Most of those thefts occurred in the cities of Rochester – where car thefts increased 829% from a year ago – and Buffalo, where they were up 488%. The targets are mainly older Kias and Hyundais built without engine immobilizers, making them easy for thieves to steal.