A new FBI report has revealed a significant increase in motor vehicle thefts in the United States, with nearly a million vehicles, valued at over $20 billion, stolen last year. The report, titled “Crime in the Nation 2022,” provides insights into the latest crime trends based on data shared by thousands of law enforcement agencies across the country. The statistics show that motor vehicle thefts increased by more than 8% nationwide.
According to the FBI’s data, a total of 1,213,913 charges related to motor vehicle thefts were handed down in 2022 by law enforcement agencies that shared their data, accounting for 93.5% of all agencies. This marks a significant surge compared to the 636,941 charges recorded in 2021.
The data also reveals that motor vehicle thefts increased by an estimated 8.6% in 2022, based on information compiled from 93.5% of U.S. police agencies. However, the FBI notes that in 2021, only 76.9% of police departments shared their data due to a change in reporting systems. Despite this, the agency managed to account for the data shortcomings and arrived at the estimation of an 8.6% increase in motor vehicle thefts between the two years.
The report highlights some alarming trends related to motor vehicle thefts. It reveals that nearly 70,000 individuals were arrested for motor vehicle theft in 2022, with 2,000 of them carrying a firearm at the time of their arrest. Additionally, motor vehicle thefts on college campuses saw a significant increase from 2,700 incidents in 2021 to 4,900 incidents in 2022.
In terms of demographics, the data shows that men accounted for the majority of motor vehicle theft arrestees, with men under 18 representing 17.8% of reported stolen vehicles. Men between the ages of 35 and 64 were the most largely represented group, accounting for approximately 26% of the total.
The report also sheds light on other property crime offenses, which saw a spike of 7.1% in 2022 compared to the previous year. Larcenies increased by 7.8%, while burglaries remained unchanged. However, the statistics show a decrease in violent crimes, with homicides dropping by 6.1% and rapes decreasing by 5.4% from 2021.
The FBI data reveals that carjacking incidents, which involve the use of force, increased from an estimated 23,500 incidents in 2021 to 25,400 incidents in 2022. Nearly half of all carjackings took place between 8 p.m. and 4 a.m., with at least one weapon involved in 22,700 of the incidents. The report also notes a 13% increase in carjacking arrests involving two or more suspects.
While the surge in motor vehicle thefts and property crimes is concerning, the statistics show a decrease in violent crimes. Nevertheless, law enforcement agencies and individuals are encouraged to take precautions to prevent car thefts, especially during the nighttime hours when a significant number of incidents occur.
In conclusion, the FBI’s latest report reveals a significant increase in motor vehicle thefts and property crimes in the United States. While efforts to combat these crimes are ongoing, it is important for individuals to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to protect their vehicles.
