California Vehicle Thefts Drop 13% Statewide, First Decline Since 2019

California experienced a significant 13% drop in vehicle thefts from 2023 to 2024, marking the first year-over-year decrease since 2019, with nearly 92% of stolen vehicles recovered. Governor Gavin Newsom attributed the decline to enhanced regional operations and partnerships between the California Highway Patrol and local law enforcement in key counties such as Alameda, Kern, San Bernardino, and Santa Barbara, which saw a 29% reduction in thefts. This progress aligns with the enactment of stricter crime legislation increasing penalties for theft and funding for law enforcement efforts. Despite the overall reduction in vehicle thefts, California’s crime landscape remains mixed, with a 5.5% drop in violent crime and a 10% decrease in property crime statewide, although aggravated assaults remain above pre-pandemic levels, and shoplifting has surged by nearly 48%. CHP Commissioner Sean Duryee emphasized the ongoing commitment to crime prevention and community protection, reflecting significant public safety investments totaling $1.6 billion since 2019. These developments demonstrate California's strategic focus on crime reduction while acknowledging persistent challenges in specific crime categories.