ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) – Atlanta Police Chief Darin Schierbaum announced new measures to limit the number of cars stolen at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
“We’re removing the welcome mat at our airport for you to believe you can come and take vehicles,” said Schierbaum.
Recently, ANF Investigates found 301 cars have been stolen from Atlanta’s airport this year as of Oct. 31.
That is more than three times as many cars stolen in 2023.
“Some citizens may travel and it may be days or weeks before they know they’ve been a victim of a threat,” said Schierbaum. “We’ve taken a number of initiatives to turn this trend around.”
Schierbaum said they’ve added police patrols at the airport parking decks, including undercover officers.
He said they’re also installing technology to help prevent thieves from piggybacking behind each other during heists.
“New anti-tailgating technology is being installed, so those individuals that come in to take a car can’t follow the vehicle they’ve just stolen out,” Schierbaum said.
Schierbaum said they’re also working with Atlanta’s FBI office to track down those responsible.
There are 40,000 parking spaces at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.
Schierbaum said most ars are being taken from parking garages rather than curbside.
“The majority of the thefts are programmer-related. (That’s) where you’re able to go up to a car, simulate a key fob, and just take the vehicle. No broken glass, nothing that draws the attention of a police officer on patrol,” Schierbaum said.
Schierbaum said using a club over the steering wheel is the best tool to prevent your car from being stolen.
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