BALTIMORE, MD – In a bold legal move, Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott has announced that the city is filing a lawsuit against automakers Hyundai and Kia. The lawsuit claims these companies have failed to implement essential vehicle immobilization technology in their cars, making them easy targets for thieves.
Scott did not mention any efforts to keep repeat car theft criminals behind bars, instead blamed the automakers for making the cars to easy for criminals to steal.
“The cost-cutting measures implemented by Hyundai and Kia, at the expense of public safety, are unacceptable. Our residents are now vulnerable to crime, and our law enforcement resources are significantly strained,” said Mayor Scott. This action by the City of Baltimore mirrors similar legal steps taken by other U.S. cities such as Seattle and St. Louis.
According to data released by the Baltimore Police Department, a concerning 577 Kias and Hyundais have been stolen in Baltimore since the start of this year. This trend could result in the city experiencing more than double the number of auto thefts reported in 2022. Notably, Commissioner Michael Harrison revealed that auto thefts have surged by 95% overall this year, with Kia and Hyundai models accounting for a staggering 41% of all stolen vehicles.
The lawsuit has been filed in the United States District Court for the District of Maryland. The city is represented by attorneys Richard Gordon and Martin Wolf of Gordon, Wolf & Carney, along with Sara Gross from the Baltimore City Department of Law. The litigation aims to hold Hyundai and Kia accountable for this rising public safety issue, emphasizing the need for manufacturers to prioritize the safety of residents.
While Mayor Scott’s announcement focused on holding automakers responsible, it did not address implementing more stringent penalties or heightened law enforcement efforts against car thieves. As the legal proceedings continue, Baltimore remains committed to protecting its community and holding automobile manufacturers accountable. Further updates on this case are expected as developments unfold.