WASHINGTON — As car thefts continue to rise in the District, leaders are announcing a new pilot program that aims to make finding stolen vehicles easier.
On Wednesday morning, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser held a press conference with the Metropolitan Police Department to share that some District drivers in select areas will now be able to receive free digital tracking tags for their vehicles.
According to DC Police crime stats, motor vehicle theft is up 101% when compared to the same time last year. The free tracking tags will help police find and recover missing or stolen vehicles and hold those who took them accountable.
"Our goal is not just to prevent carjackings and motor vehicle thefts, but also to ensure swift law enforcement action when these incidents occur,” said Acting Chief of Police Pamela A. Smith. “These tracking devices allow our officers and detectives to be better positioned to quickly locate stolen vehicles, recover property, and gather vital evidence for investigations.”
Rudina Ismalaj, who was dragged on 9th Street NW when her vehicle was stolen almost one year ago, said she supports the program as another tool to help crack down on criminals.
"I think this is a great idea if its not invading the person's privacy," Ismalaj told WUSA9. "Going through the experience, I feel like I'm in a way traumatized, so, now I'm very cautious."
The tags will be available to those living in selected police service areas (PSAs) and will be handed out at three separate distribution events. At each event, those who attend will be required to show proof of residence within selected areas to receive a free tracking tag.
Residents who live in Police Service Areas (PSAs) 106, 501, 502, 603, 605, and 606 can attend one of the following distribution events:
- Tuesday, November 7 from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. 100 I (Eye) Street SE (PSA 106)
- Wednesday, November 8 from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. 1309 5th Street NE (PSAs 501 & 502)
- Thursday, November 9 from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. 3200 Pennsylvania Avenue SE, Rear Parking Lot (PSAs 605 & 606)
Residents unsure of their designated PSA can easily find this information by visiting mpdc.dc.gov/patrolservices
The pilot program follows MPD's wheel-lock distribution program. Additionally, D.C. partnered with Hyundai to upgrade more than 1,100 cars with new anti-theft software over the summer and leaders started a dash cam distribution program for local rideshare and mobile delivery drivers.
Acting Chief Smith said the goal is to track stolen vehicles sooner, but not use them mainly for police pursuits.
DC Police said the tag is only being tracked by the driver unless an incident occurs and they share the whereabouts to investigators.
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