Recent Car break-ins

A recent spike in car break-ins and vandalism has occurred across various parking lots on campus at Monmouth College. These break-ins targeted Kia and Hyundai vehicles, mostly 2013–2020 models.

“The police department said that they are in belief that these instances here are people that are probably not familiar,” said Director of Campus Safety Chris McLaughlin. “They believe, from their primary investigation, that it’s probably somebody who is not a professional at doing this.” There has been a spike in Kia and Hyundai vehicles, with roughly a 100% increase in theft losses from January to June 2020 and from January to June 2021, according to the HLDI. Certain vehicle models don’t have an anti-theft prevention system installed, called an immobilizer.

This trend originated from the Kia Boyz, creating the “Kia Challenge," where they showed the ease of breaking into Kia and Hyundai vehicles. There are safeguards and preventive actions people can take to try and avoid this issue. “One of the safeguards the police department has passed onto us is steering wheel locks,” said McLaughlin. Campus Safety says it's crucial students check their vehicles daily and ensure they haven't left valuable items inside.

There are steps a student can take if they do find that their car has been broken into or vandalized. “If they come out and see [the] damage or see that anything has happened to their vehicle, immediately call us or the police department,” said McLaughlin. “We like to be involved also because we then can help the police navigate the campus and the investigation.”

Campus Safety is available 24/7 to assist students with rides around campus and patrolling the parking lots. Their number is 309-457-3456. “If you see something, say something, regardless of how minor you think it is,” said McLaughlin.

Karli Strom News and Opinion Editor