Thefts of older-model Hondas on the rise in north Edmonton

The Edmonton Police Service and the Alberta Motor Association (AMA) are warning drivers that late-model Hondas are being targeted by auto thieves, and are offering free anti-theft steering wheel locks to help reduce the number of auto thefts in north Edmonton.

“We see older model cars stolen frequently because they are not often equipped with security features such as microchipped keys or anti-theft alarms, and they make easy targets,” says Acting Sgt. Keith Pitzel with EPS Northeast Division.  “Hondas retain their value, and there are many older models still on the streets, which makes them popular among thieves. We want to remind owners that all vehicles need to be secured, not just the brand new ones.”

Auto theft is up over last year in north Edmonton by 28 per cent, and up city-wide by 20 per cent.  In northeast Edmonton, 15 per cent of all vehicles stolen were older-model Hondas, which is consistent across the city.  The older Hondas are frequently stolen while parked overnight on the street or in a parking lot.  Vehicles are stolen for transportation, to commit other crimes, for vehicle cloning, or to sell the parts.  Auto thefts, and theft from auto, also tend to increase up to 25 per cent over the summer months with the warmer weather and more pedestrians on the streets later in the day.

To help reduce the theft of older-model Hondas in north Edmonton, the AMA is donating 100 steering wheel anti-theft locks to Alberta Honda.  Owners of 1989 to 2000 Hondas can stop by the dealership at 9525 - 127 Avenue during business hours to get their free lock while supplies last.  Affordable steering wheel locks are also available from the AMA and automotive supply retailers.

“Car thieves look for quick and easy opportunities, and will often not bother with a vehicle that has a steering wheel lock in clear view,” says Chris Rechner with the AMA.  “Using a steering wheel lock not only immobilizes your vehicle, it sends a visual reminder to thieves that your vehicle is secured.  It’s a very low-cost way of preventing a very expensive and inconvenient auto theft.”

For tips on how to reduce the chances of having your vehicle stolen, please visit www.edmontonpolice.ca/crimeprevention.

If you witness an auto theft in progress, please call 911.  To report a stolen auto, or to provide information that may be valuable to an auto theft investigation, please contact the Edmonton Police Service at 780-423-4567or #377 from a mobile phone.  Anonymous information can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.tipsubmit.com/start.htm.