As Vehicle Thefts Climb, Harford County Sheriff Offers Tips To Deter Thieves

HARFORD COUNTY, MD — A "significant increase" in vehicle thefts and attempted thefts have been reported in Harford County, according to Sheriff Jeffrey Gahler, who recently offered some advice to vehicle owners.

"(It's) primarily Hyundais and Kias due to their vulnerability to theft. Additionally, Audis and Infinities have also been targeted with criminals employing more sophisticated methods such as program-matching vehicle key fobs," Gahler said.

The sheriff recommended taking the following actions:

• Contact Hyundai and Kia if you own one of these vehicles and express your concern. They may provide you with an anti-wheel lock device or update your vehicle’s anti-theft computer system.
• Owners of Audi and Infiniti vehicles should contact the manufacturers to inquire about any preventive measures against key fob program-matching thefts.

Gahler also recommended vehicle owners heed the following tips:

• Lock your vehicles.
• Park your vehicle in well-lit areas or a garage if possible.
• Install a visible deterrent such as a steering wheel lock, alarm systems or security cameras.
• Consider investing in a GPS tracking device for added security and the ability to locate your vehicle if stolen.
• Do not leave your key fob close to the front door or close to where your vehicle is parked. If possible, place your key fob a decent distance away (15 plus feet away) from your vehicle or in a secure anti-blocking device, i.e. safe, or electronic blocking bag.
• Remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement immediately.

"By working together as a community, we can help deter criminal activity and keep our neighborhoods safe," Gahler said. "We urge all residents to take proactive steps to protect their vehicles from theft. Your safety and security are our top priorities, and we appreciate your cooperation in addressing this issue."

Recent incidents involving carjackings have been reported in Harford County. On Feb. 16 in Aberdeen, two men were carjacked at a hotel by two armed suspects. One pulled out a gun and told them to drive, police said. The two friends drove off and when the car stopped at a stop sign, both victims jumped out. One took off running but the other jumped onto the hood of the car in an attempt to stop the carjacking. But a suspect got behind the wheel and drove off, leaving the victim clinging to the hood. The suspect eventually threw the victim off the vehicle and kept driving, witnesses told police. That 21-year-old victim suffered severe head trauma, Patch reported.

On Dec. 20, 2023, Bel Air Police received a report of an armed carjacking and kidnapping. The victim was taken at gunpoint but uninjured, Patch reported.