The Nashville Police Department is sending out another reminder to the citizens, pressing them to keep their automobile doors locked and valuables, particularly firearms, secured. These words of caution come in the wake of a report that a total of 17 guns were stolen from vehicles in the past week alone, contributing to the 640 guns lifted from automobiles throughout Nashville so far in 2024. According to the department's statement, this rash of thefts from vehicles constitutes a significant 71% of the total 896 guns stolen in Davidson County this year.

Comparing these figures to the previous year, there is a marked 28% decrease in the incidence rate; last year saw 900 guns stolen from vehicles around the same time, which means this year there have been 260 fewer guns taken. While the numbers reflect a downward trend, the problem remains pressing, involving autos too often remain an easy target for thieves who find keys inside or otherwise easily accessible to them.

Coinciding with the fight against the theft of valuables from cars is MNPD's concerted effort to tackle vehicle theft. Starting on February 1, this specialized initiative has led to the arrest of 789 individuals and the recovery of 408 stolen vehicles in addition to the 146 guns, as mentioned by MNPD's statement.

The Nashville Police further connects auto theft with other forms of criminality, noting that stolen vehicles are frequently used in other crimes, such as carjackings and robberies. Stolen guns from these vehicles often can be tied back to the scene of criminal activities, warning the public about the greater implications of these seemingly singular crimes.