Joplin Police Report Spike in Kia, Hyundai Vehicle Thefts

Joplin police report spike in Kia, Hyundai vehicle thefts

JOPLIN, Mo. (KOAM) - The Joplin Police Department is warning residents of a sharp increase in motor vehicle thefts throughout 2025, with Kia and Hyundai models manufactured between 2011 and 2022 being the primary targets.

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Officials encourage owners of 2011–2022 Hyundai and Kia vehicles to check with local dealerships to determine if their car qualifies for the anti-theft upgrade.

JPD sees increase in motor vehicle thefts: Kia and Hyundai vehicles most commonly stolen – Newstalk KZRG

In 2025, the Joplin Police Department has seen an increase in motor vehicle thefts. Kia and Hyundai vehicles manufactured between 2011 and 2022 were the most commonly stolen vehicles. Most of the thefts have occurred in vehicles equipped with “twist to start” ignitions, not push to start. Suspects have targeted these vehicles by hacking the ignitions of models manufactured between the mentioned date ranges. In most of the thefts, forced entry wa…