ALBANY- Governor Kathy Hochul is encouraging New Yorkers to take steps to protect their vehicles as the state marks Vehicle Theft Prevention Month in July.
State officials said investigators with the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles recovered 140 stolen vehicles valued at more than $4.3 million during the first six months of 2026, along with eight stolen auto parts worth nearly $13,000.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, more than 650,000 vehicles are stolen each year in the United States.
Officials recommend locking all doors and windows, keeping key fobs out of vehicles, parking in well-lit areas when possible and avoiding leaving valuables in plain sight.
The state also advises used car buyers to obtain an independent inspection, review a vehicle history report and verify the vehicle identification number before making a purchase.
Hochul’s administration said vehicle thefts statewide have declined by about 15 percent from 2024 to 2025 following the launch of the state’s Comprehensive Auto-Theft Reduction Strategy, which expanded enforcement efforts and public education.
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