One man was arrested, and several stolen vehicles were recovered after a recent raid at an alleged “chop shop” in Happy Valley. The bust marked the end of a months-long investigation headed by the Auto Theft Task Force-a joint operation of the Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office and local law enforcement. Police took on the case when a car stolen outside the county was traced to the chop shop, where it had already been stripped.
Police issued two warrants, arresting a suspect and serving the other at his nearby home. The bust is another example of a long-standing effort to dismantle large-scale chop shops that appear as legitimate businesses. The Auto Theft Task Force, which was formed 18 months ago, has reduced auto thefts in Multnomah County by 45%. Now, investigators are working to identify stolen parts and vehicles via VINs and electronic evidence; more charges are pending as the investigation unfolds.
Portland’s Top 10 Stolen Vehicles in 2023
A total of 7,454 vehicles were reported stolen in Portland from January to November 2023. This was down compared to 2022 when more than 10,800 vehicles were reported stolen. The most thefts (983), were in January, while the fewest (538), were in November.
Portland’s Top 10 Stolen Vehicles of 2023:
- Kia Soul – 451 thefts
- Hyundai Elantra – 412 thefts
- Honda Civic, CRX, Del Sol – 243 thefts
- Subaru Legacy/Outback – 239 thefts
- Subaru Forester – 211 thefts
- Kia Optima – 204 thefts
- Hyundai Sonata – 200 thefts
- Honda CRV – 165 thefts
- Honda Accord/Crosstour – 163 thefts
- Kia Sportage – 157 thefts
Vehicle Theft Recovery Rates and Prevention Tips
While vehicle thefts have gone down, recovery rates remain high: 92% of stolen cars were recovered in 2023. AAA Oregon & Idaho recommends keeping valuables out of sight, parking in well-lit areas, locking doors and windows, and never leaving your car running unattended. They also recommend not leaving keys in or near the vehicle.
The 20 Most Stolen Cars in Washington State by Year and Model
Gallery Credit: AJ Brewster