Rising number of car thefts, Boone County at ten year high

Vehicle thefts in Boone County rose over 30 percent over the past decade with 358 vehicles stolen in 2017. About one car is stolen each day in Boone County.

Reports show Missouri ranks as the seventh highest state in the nation for motorcycle theft, despite a lowered national trend.

“Motorcycles are most commonly stolen in warmer months when there are more of them out there,” said Kevin Gamble of State Farm Insurance. “More people riding, more opportunity and maybe more times when riders aren’t securing them as well.”

Although Missouri ranks highly for motorcycle theft, the state also ranks highly for its rate of recovery. Gamble said almost half of stolen motorcycles are found.

Boone County Sheriff’s Department Detective Tom O’Sullivan said vehicle theft is often a “crime of opportunity.” He said simple mistakes, such as leaving a car unlocked, can provoke a person to steal it.

“Leaving the key in the ignition or you’ll have people in the colder weather go out into the driveway and let the car warm up,” O’Sullivan said.

He said people should try to park in well-lit areas and never leave valuables in clear sight.

Gamble recommends for people to speak with their insurance agent about what their vehicle insurance policy covers. He also said people should document any vehicle upgrades or add-ons to ensure they receive reimbursement for damages or loss.

“In the case of a theft or accident or some kind of damage, you know exactly what’s going to happen and you aren’t surprised,” Gamble said.

The National Insurance Crime Bureau compiled a list of the most commonly stolen cars and vehicles in Missouri. The 2004 Ford Pickup is ranked as number one, followed by the 1999 Chevrolet Pickup and then 1999 Dodge Pickup.