From December 2022 to 2023, vehicle theft has surged dramatically, 12.6% nationwide and 49% in the Kansas City area, as reported by the FBI’s Crime Data. This rise is felt by the Rockhurst University community, where car thefts and break-ins have notably increased both on and around campus, raising concerns about local safety.
According to the Rockhurst Department of Safety and Security, between January and April 2024, Rockhurst reported six motor vehicle thefts—just one less than the total for all of 2022. The 2024-25 academic year has already seen numerous incidents.
“What you see around the country is what you will find in our area: increased activity,” Chief Leonard Patterson of the Rockhurst Department of Safety and Security explained. “There are many reasons why. Limited resources to combat the issue amongst law enforcement agencies all over coupled with minimum consequences for the perpetrators, who are often juveniles.”
Clayton Savage, a freshman at Rockhurst, is one of several students affected by the recent surge in car thefts this semester. His Kia had been parked in the McGee parking lot, and within just seven minutes, Savage’s and another Kia were stolen by four suspects.
“I found out my Kia had been stolen when campus security called and explained,” Savage said.
According to the National Insurance Crime Bureau (NICB), six of the top 10 most stolen vehicles in 2023 were either Kias or Hyundais.
The rise in Kia and Hyundai thefts can likely be attributed to the influence of social media. In July 2022, a Milwaukee-based group known as the Kia Boyz posted a TikTok video showing how easy it was to steal certain Kia models, sparking a nationwide trend. Many newer Kia and Hyundai vehicles lack an immobilizer—a device that prevents the car from starting without the correct key or key fob. This means that perpetrators can gain access to the vehicle, remove the cover from the steering column, use an improvised key in the ignition and start the engine, leaving owners like Savage vulnerable to theft.
There are measures that can be taken to prevent theft and deter offenders. Rockhurst employs patrol vehicles, maintains well-lit parking lots and provides students access to a gated, patrolled garage. However, much of the responsibility for deterrence lies with individual students taking precautions to secure their vehicles.
Patterson regularly shares important safety tips in university-wide emails, offering advice on how to protect oneself and one’s vehicle. Simple yet effective actions such as locking car doors and windows, keeping valuables out of sight and parking in well-lit areas are strong deterrents for potential offenders.
“Thieves are less likely to target vehicles in highly visible locations. They do not want to draw a lot of attention. They want to get in and out,” Patterson said.
For Kia and Hyundai owners, it is especially important to use a steering wheel lock, which are available for free at the Rockhurst security office.
“A visible and utilized deterrent like a steering wheel lock can make your car a less attractive target for thieves. Again, they want to get in and drive off. They are not trying to solve a puzzle or use extra effort to steal the vehicle. This is a must if you own a vehicle susceptible to theft,” Patterson said.
Of the vehicles stolen on or near campus, only one had a steering wheel lock—but it was left unused, sitting in the back seat.
It is important to report any suspicious behavior to campus security immediately. Speaking up right away can make a difference between merely reporting a crime and potentially preventing one. The Safety and Security Department can be reached at 816-501-4010.
