In a shocking New Year’s Day incident, Tacoma police arrested three teenage girls, including a 12-year-old, for allegedly driving a stolen Kia Optima. The vehicle, reported stolen from Kent on Tuesday, was spotted by officers in Tacoma’s South End, driving erratically around 8 p.m.
Teen Girls Accused of Kia Theft in Tacoma
The suspects—aged 15, 14, and 12—were caught after police observed the Kia Optima speeding and switching lanes abruptly near South 72nd Street. According to Detective William Muse, the driver made a sharp turn onto South D Street and later entered parking lots for a 7-Eleven and Wendy’s.
When officers activated their patrol vehicle’s emergency lights, the suspects exited the car. The two passengers were detained immediately, while the driver was identified shortly after.
Charges Filed Against Teens
Court records indicate the 15-year-old driver was charged with unlawful possession of a stolen vehicle. The 14-year-old passenger faces charges of taking a motor vehicle without permission, while prosecutors sought similar charges for the 12-year-old, who is scheduled for arraignment on January 16.
Role of USB Cables in Kia and Hyundai Theft Trend
The incident highlights a troubling trend in car thefts involving early model Kias and Hyundais. Police discovered a USB cable with one of the teens—a tool widely publicized on social media for starting certain car models. This method has been part of a national spike in vehicle thefts attributed to the so-called “Kia Boyz” crime trend.
Vehicle Damage and Juvenile Detention
Officers reported extensive damage to the steering column of the stolen Kia. The 15-year-old and 14-year-old suspects were taken to Remann Hall Juvenile Detention Center, while the 12-year-old was released to her family in Auburn.
Decline in Auto Theft in Pierce County
Pierce County has seen a significant decline in auto thefts since a peak in the summer of 2023, thanks to public awareness, automakers addressing vulnerabilities, and enhanced law enforcement efforts. Over a three-month period last year, deputies responded to over 460 auto theft incidents.
Deputy Carly Cappetto from the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department noted that aggressive prosecution of repeat offenders, multi-agency task forces, and changes to the county’s pursuit policy contributed to the decline.
Impact on Victims of Kia and Hyundai Theft
While theft rates have decreased, the financial and emotional toll on victims remains high. Many affected individuals, including single parents, elderly residents, and those living in apartment complexes, struggle with repair costs and impound fees.
Public Awareness and Prevention Efforts
To combat car theft, law enforcement urges drivers to invest in anti-theft measures, stay vigilant, and report suspicious activity. The recent crackdown on “Kia Boyz” and improved vehicle security measures by manufacturers have also helped reduce these crimes.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of ongoing efforts to curb auto theft and hold offenders accountable.