Syracuse, NY (NCC News) – The City of Syracuse is grappling with a surge in car thefts, surpassing 1,000 incidents this year. Two car dealerships bear responsibility for this alarming trend, according to Lieutenant Matthew Malinowsky of the Syracuse Police Department.
“A lot of that could be contributed to the manufacturers’ defect in the Kias and Hyundais,” said Lieutenant Malinowsky.
The City of Syracuse has taken legal action by joining a lawsuit against these automakers, citing their failure to incorporate basic anti-theft technology. Kias and Hyundais alone account for more than 50% of all reported vehicle thefts this year. As winter approaches, Lieutenant Malinowsky anticipates a further escalation of the issue.
“Well, I think we naturally see a slight increase in stolen vehicles in the winter months because people tend to warm up their vehicles in the driveway. But you’ve got to make sure you have an automatic car starter or something to ensure the vehicle can’t be put into ignition,” said Lieutenant Malinowsky.
In response to this crisis, the City of Syracuse has partnered with Matthews Auto to offer a free replacement of faulty lock systems for Kia and Hyundai owners.