NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN) — Some parts of Davidson County are seeing an uptick in vehicle thefts, even though police numbers show an overall decrease in that crime countywide.

As of Saturday, Oct. 18, there have been 3,612 auto thefts so far this year, according to the Metro Nashville Police Department. That's down 11.8% from the 4,097 reported last year.

However, some precincts are bucking that trend. Based on the MNPD data, the West Precinct is up 3.4%, the Hermitage Precinct is up 4.4%, and the Central Precinct is seeing the biggest jump with 18.2%.

"We've got certain groups that have just gotten really savvy with stealing cars. I think it's good we live in a city where we have a police department that can deal with things like this," Metro Councilmember Jordan Huffman said.

Huffman represents District 14, which includes the Hermitage Precinct, an area that had eight vehicle thefts just last week.

"The community of Donelson and Hermitage is a strong one that is tight knit, and unfortunately, we've just got some bad apples that are trying to uproot that," Huffman said.

According to police, many of these thefts are crimes of opportunity, often involving unlocked cars or keys left inside. Authorities said they've also seen cases where suspects have key fob programmers, allowing them to start a vehicle.

"We live in an age where you can buy a key fob off of Amazon and watch a two-minute YouTube video and you're well equipped and on your way to know how to commit grand theft auto," Huffman said.

Law enforcement said prevention is key to protecting your vehicle. The MNPD recommends locking your doors, parking in well-lit areas, installing an audible alarm system, or using a steering wheel lock.

News Source : https://www.wkrn.com/news/local-news/nashville/auto-theft-data-shows-at-risk-areas-in-davidson-county/