Concord PD Offers Free Anti-Theft Devices To Drivers of Targeted Cars

Is your car one of the models on the "hot list" for local car thieves?

If so, the Concord Police Department (CPD) wants to give you a free anti-theft device — a steering wheel lock commonly known as “The Club".

California is the home of grand theft auto, with more incidents than any other state, according to FBI statistics. Here in Concord, auto thefts have "declined significantly" over the past five years, says CPD, but analysis of the types of cars stolen has revealed some interesting trends.

Certain makes, models and years of vehicles are stolen at a much higher rate than newer model vehicles, according to CPD. The most targeted cars are 1985 to 2005 model year Hondas, Toyotas, Nissans and Acuras.

Owners of these vehicles can get a free steering wheel lock from the Concord Police Department through "Operation Wheel Lock" — a program starting June 18 designed "to educate vehicle owners about their vulnerability to auto theft" and offer "an additional layer of security and theft prevention." 

The 900 free security locks were paid for with asset forfeiture funds at no cost to the city, and will also be offered to City of Concord employees who commute in these high-risk cars.

No form of theft-prevention device is guaranteed to be effective, says CPD, but steering wheel locks have "proven to be an inexpensive and effective auto-theft deterrent."

"It is the Concord Police Department’s hope that anyone taking advantage of one of these free security Clubs will consistently commit to using them when they are away from their vehicle, and in the process reduce the likelihood that they will be victimized," said CPD in a press release. "Over time, the expectation is there will be a reduction in reported thefts of these vehicles in the city of Concord."

The security locks are available on a first-come, first served basis starting June 18.

Car owners should drive their vehicle to the Concord Police Department at 1350 Galindo St., bringing proof of the vehicle registration address or evidence of employment by the city. Security locks will be distributed from the Community Service Desk, located on the 1st floor of the Concord Police Department.

To confirm the on-going availability of the Clubs and/or the Service Desk hours of operation, call (925) 671-3220 or visit CityOfConcord.org/Police.

Police officers may also distribute some locks in the field, according to CPD, in circumstances where a stolen vehicle is recovered and returned to the registered owner.

Do you drive a "targeted" car? Has it ever been stolen? How do you protect it? Share your experience in the comments.