This weekend, the Bellevue Police Department will be holding two events in an effort to reduce vehicle thefts in the city. Police Officers and volunteers will be on hand to distribute free steering wheel locks at the following times and locations:
- Saturday, September 23, 1-5 p.m. Crossroads Police Substation
- Sunday, September 24, 1-5 p.m. Factoria Police Substation
The effort comes as the city and region face a marked increase in vehicle thefts in the past year. The City of Bellevue has seen a 17 percent increase in vehicle thefts overall in 2023. What is especially concerning, however, is the increase in thefts of vehicles made by two manufacturers: Kia and Hyundai. Bellevue Police have received 44 stolen Kia reports and 66 stolen Hyundai reports so far this year, a 340% and 239% increase, respectively. The Bellevue Police Department strongly urges owners of these vehicles to reduce their chances of becoming a victim of theft by considering the following:
- Have all recall work and software updates performed by an authorized dealer as soon as possible.
- Use a steering wheel lock.
- Consider purchasing an alarm system.
- Place a tracking device, such as an AirPod, in your vehicle to aid in recovery.
Free steering wheel locks will be given on a first-come first-served basis and will be available while supplies last. One lock per person.
Bellevue Beat Blog 