Las Vegas ranked 27th in nation for car thefts

Tuesday, April 7, 1998 | 10:46 a.m.

Motorists beware: Car thieves have thing for the Las Vegas area.

A survey released Monday by the National Insurance Crime Bureau found Las Vegas to be the 27th most victimized city in the nation by car thefts.

Comparing data from 1996, the survey determined that one in 79 cars were stolen in Las Vegas. Jersey City, N.J., faired the worst with one car reported stolen out of 36.

Each year, NICB analyzes data from the FBI, motor vehicle departments and police agencies to determine auto theft rates in metropolitan statistical areas across the U.S.

The most recent study using 1996 figures determined that while 60 percent of stolen cars were recovered, only 18 percent of those could be driven.

Auto theft experts claim most stolen cars end up in "chop shops" -- a lucrative black market operation were cars are stripped for parts.

Sport utility vehicles, pickup trucks and vans are increasing in popularity among thieves. In Nevada, the Saturn SL, Honda Accord and Toyota Camry are frequently stolen.

To avoid becoming a victim, authorities recommend car owners:

* Use anti-theft devices like car alarms and steering wheel locks.

* Never leave keys -- even hidden -- in an unattended car.

* Always park in well-lit areas.

* Hide packages or valuables out of sight.

* Never leave personal identification in your car.