A disturbing social media fad is fueling a rash of car thefts in Fort Lauderdale, with police reporting a surge tied to online tutorials on how to break into vehicles using USB cables. According to NBC Miami, a white 2012 Kia Optima was recently swiped from Northwest 24th Avenue, a crime believed to be linked to this troubling trend.
Amidst the ongoing wave of automotive burglaries, South Florida mechanic Jonathan Gutierrez admitted to NBC Miami that the ease of the heists shook him, saying "Now I see how easy it is to do such things." While they've been following this trend, authorities find often that stolen vehicles, once recovered, bear the sign of the crime—a USB cable left behind, according to Sgt. Matt Moore of the Highway Loss Data Institute.
The "Kia Boyz" challenge, a title borne out of this notorious trend, blazed across TikTok, compelling teens to commit grand theft auto. Police reported that five teenagers were involved in the heist of a Kia Optima on Tuesday, which ended with two 15-year-old suspects nabbed in the act in the 900 block of Northwest 17th Avenue. As described by CBS News Miami, the duo is now facing charges.
In response to the upsurge in thefts, Kia America has been proactive, launching a software update earlier this year to enhance security, and rolling out free wheel locks to at-risk vehicle owners—measures intended to curtail these crimes, James Bell of Kia America relayed in a statement obtained by CBS News Miami. Additionally, Bell mentioned a newly implemented "cylinder protector" to safeguard the ignition over another issue identified last December.
Fort Lauderdale Police warn that this bourgeoning trend is not only vexing but perilous. Motorists are urged to take precautions, including parking in well-lit areas, securing their vehicles, and never leaving keys or valuables in plain sight. This advice comes as authorities seek to combat the spate of thefts that has been how communities are terrorized by youthful exploits turned criminal ventures.
