Investigators with the Columbia Police Department (CPD) Property Crimes Unit (PCU) have charged another teenager in connection with a theft of a particular car brand — Kia.
The 15-year-old suspect is charged with Grand Larceny of a Motor Vehicle and Auto-Breaking. The teen is accused of damaging the ignition column of a 2018 Kia Optima from 600 Greenlawn Drive (Creekside at Greenlawn Apartments) on June 27, 2022 and stealing the car.
Thankfully, CPD officers found the stolen car the next day after it was abandoned at an auto repair shop at 2701 Millwood Avenue. Surveillance video assisted CPD with the investigation.
Suspect’s Previous Charge:
In January 2022, CPD’s Special Victims Unit (SVU) investigators charged the same suspect with First Degree Criminal Sexual Assault w/Minor after he allegedly committed a sex act on an 8-year-old female at a South Columbia home.
Additional Arrests | Kia & Hyundai Thefts
Since June, CPD has investigated several incidents of auto-breaking, vehicle tampering and theft of Kia or Hyundai. The cars range from 2011- 2021 Kia and 2013 – 2020 Hyundai models. So far, CPD has arrested and charged a 14 and 15-year-old male and an adult.
Kia and Hyundai thefts have been on the rise nationally after social media posts showed how to steal such cars. CPD contacted Kia America about the local thefts. 
CPD continues to work with the Richland County Sheriff’s Department (RCSD) on similar incidents to determine if the crimes are being committed by the same person or group in the City of Columbia and Richland County.
Vehicle Safety Tips:
If its an option, park in a secured garage
Use of security alarm
Consider installing steering wheel locks
If you’re vehicle stolen or damaged:
Report it immediately to local police
File an incident report with local police
Additional Tips:
Take a picture of your vehicle. This can aid police in locating the stolen vehicle.
Know the make, model, VIN and license plate of the vehicle.
If you have surveillance system, ensure cameras are operating properly
Preserve video to share with police