The Northwest’s decline in automobile theft is a part of a nationwide development, in line with the Nationwide Insurance coverage Crime Bureau.
PORTLAND, Oregon — Automotive thefts are manner down in Oregon and Washington, in line with new info from the Nationwide Insurance coverage Crime Bureau
, which exhibits the Northwest leads the nation in automobile theft discount.
The NICB reported that in Oregon, automobile thefts dropped by 30% between 2023 and 2024 — the third-biggest drop within the nation. Washington topped the listing with a 32% drop. Nationwide, automobile theft is down by 17%.
“If you actually hear the statistics, it helps you a large number to know you are on the market serving to with that,” mentioned Chaz Neuman with PDX Stolen Vehicles, a nonprofit that tracks down automobiles reported stolen, then alerts police.
“It is the best feeling, I imply we have recovered hundreds of automobiles,” mentioned Neuman. “We put a lot effort into what we do.”
Portland Police Chief Bob Day credited the Police Bureau’s stolen automobile operation missions for the theft reductions.
“It is an amazing indication of what we will do when we have now correct funding, correct staffing a chance to handle crime instantly,” mentioned Day.
In accordance with Police Bureau data, throughout the month of January 2022, 1,031 vehicles have been reported stolen in Portland. In January 2023, 984 have been stolen. In January 2024 the quantity dropped dramatically to 436 and in January 2025, 309 vehicles have been reported stolen. Chief Day mentioned continued grant funding ought to assist them proceed that development.
“The stolen automobile operation mission’s an enormous success, we’re happy with it, it is being copied across the nation,” mentioned Day. “We intend to remain centered on that.”
Neuman additionally credited the continued prosecution of instances for automobile theft discount. He specified efforts made by the Multnomah County District Lawyer’s Auto Theft Job Pressure, which targets large-scale theft rings and chop outlets. In November, a choose sentenced a person to just about seven years behind bars for working a chop store out of his dwelling in Northeast Portland.
“They’re doing their job,” mentioned Neuman. “They’re doing what they’ll to ensure these folks do not do it once more.”
