With July observed as Vehicle Theft Prevention Month, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) is reminding drivers to take simple, effective steps to protect their vehicles all year long. California saw a drop in vehicle thefts in 2024, the first year-over-year decrease since 2019.
“We are proud to see fewer vehicles being stolen across the state. The CHP and our law enforcement partners are working hard every day to stop these crimes, protect California’s communities and hold criminals responsible,” said CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee.
In 2024, thieves stole 176,230 vehicles in California, down from nearly 203,000 in 2023 — a decrease of more than 13 percent. Of all the vehicles stolen statewide, nearly 85 percent were successfully recovered.
During 2024, the CHP expanded its efforts to fight vehicle theft through crime suppression operations in the key areas of Oakland, Bakersfield and San Bernardino. These ongoing regional operations have shown positive results throughout the communities in Alameda, Kern and San Bernardino counties. Working closely with local law enforcement agencies, auto thieves, repeat offenders and organized crime groups have been disrupted, and their activities have been thwarted. As a result of these public safety collaborations, each of these counties saw a significant drop in vehicle thefts in 2024, adding to the overall statewide decrease.
Automobiles are a vital part of daily life for work, school and family. When a vehicle is stolen, it impacts more than just property—it can take away a person’s freedom and sense of security.
Vehicle theft can happen anywhere and to anyone. The CHP encourages drivers to follow these safety tips to help protect their cars:
• Hide or remove valuables from your car
• Lock your doors and roll up all windows
• Park in well-lit, visible areas
• Use anti-theft tools like steering wheel locks or alarms
• Install a GPS tracker or recovery system
• Always turn off your car and take your keys. Never leave it running unattended.
Using more than one safety step is best. Each layer adds more protection against theft.
