Atlanta police address growing rates of Kia, Hyundai model car thefts

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) - Turns out Georgia drivers are having a hard time hanging on to their cars.

New research reveals Georgia ranks the sixth-highest in the nation for vehicle-related theft with seven out of every 1,000 registered in the state reported stolen in 2022 alone.

In metro Atlanta, 511 car thefts were reported in 2023 compared to approximately 50 just one year ago.

“Juveniles are primarily driving these crimes,” said Capt. Ralph Woolfolk, Atlanta Police Department.

Atlanta Police say already this year alone thieves have stolen more than 500 cars in the city, that’s an average of more than 160 cars per month. The vast majority of the vehicles that are being targeted, a good 60 percent, are 2015 to 2021 model year Kia and Hyundais.

“This is your warning, unfortunately. As we move into the summer with adopted a non-tolerance policy,” said Capt. Woolfolk.

Kia and Hyundai owners lined up in this southwest Atlanta shopping plaza for this old-school theft deterrent. Atlanta Police handing out brand new donated car clubs.

“I take all precautionary measures when I’m out and about. And even when parking, I live in an apartment community. It’s gated; however, you never know,” said Tracey Hodges of Atlanta

RELATED: Hyundai, Kia update security after TikTok challenge thefts

Kia and Hyundai vehicle thefts grew dramatically after a TikTok challenge instructing people how to hijack the car went viral on social media.

It’s gotten so bad some insurance companies have blacklisted Kia and Hyundai, drivers. The car manufacturers rolled out a fix in February, but it’s expected to take months for drivers to bring their cars to the dealer for a software update.

“We’re still using them. I wish I had one a long time ago,” said Corey King of Atlanta.

Atlanta Police say in the meantime they hope the club will help deter would-be thieves. They’re also calling on parents to do their part.

“It is imperative that you grab your children, and you turn them onto programs that are available for them,” Capt. Woolfolk.

“There’s so much to do. And there’s so much love out there. We just have to love one another a little bit more,” said Hodges.

In all, Atlanta police have about 700 clubs to giveaway while supplies last. You can pick one up at your local zone precinct.

WATCH THE FULL PRESS CONFERENCE BELOW: