Pierce County, WA – Vehicle thefts are climbing across Pierce County, prompting renewed warnings from the Pierce County Sheriff’s Office as colder weather sets in.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, more than 1,888 vehicle thefts have been reported from January through September 2025, with August marking the peak at 259 thefts. The county has averaged 210 thefts per month, with the highest activity occurring during the summer months.
In a public safety post Tuesday, deputies reminded residents not to leave vehicles running unattended while warming up—a common habit during colder months that makes cars easy targets. “Vehicles can disappear within seconds,” the department noted.
Authorities also recommend several prevention steps: using a steering wheel lock, parking in well-lit areas with cameras, installing GPS trackers, locking vehicles at all times, and avoiding leaving valuables in sight.
Vehicle thefts in Pierce County mirror statewide trends, with law enforcement across Washington urging drivers to remain cautious through the fall and winter. Officials say quick thefts are often linked to organized criminal activity and can lead to vehicles being stripped for parts or used in other crimes.
Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity to local authorities or through the Pierce County Sheriff’s non-emergency line.
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