California reports a 13% drop in vehicle thefts due to increased CHP operations

The number of reported stolen vehicles in California has decreased by 13% from 2023 to 2024, marking the first year-over-year decline since before the pandemic. Governor Gavin Newsom highlighted strategic funding and partnerships with local and state law enforcement as key factors in this reduction.

Governor Newsom stated, "We continue to put the safety of California communities first. Through strategic funding and partnerships with local and state law enforcement partners, we are putting a brake on lawlessness and criminals disrupting our way of life."

Efforts to combat vehicle theft have been strengthened through expanded regional operations involving the California Highway Patrol (CHP) and local law enforcement agencies. These operations targeted areas such as Oakland, Bakersfield, and San Bernardino, leading to positive results in Alameda, Kern, and San Bernardino counties.

In 2024, significant drops in vehicle thefts were recorded: Alameda saw an 18% decrease, Kern experienced a 28% reduction, and San Bernardino had an 11% decline compared to 2023. Other counties also reported notable decreases in stolen vehicles.

CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee commented on the progress made: “We are proud to see fewer vehicles being stolen across the state. The CHP and our law enforcement partners are working hard every day to stop these crimes, protect California’s communities and hold criminals responsible.”

California has invested $1.6 billion since 2019 in crime-fighting efforts, including hiring more police officers and improving public safety measures. In addition to combating organized retail crime through increased proactive operations statewide, new bipartisan legislation was signed into law last August by Governor Newsom. This legislation aims at cracking down on property crime with stronger enforcement tools for holding perpetrators accountable.