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MPD credits steering wheel lock with preventing car theft, looking for suspects

Memphis Police said on Sunday, May 21, officers were called about an attempted auto theft in the 1100 block of Rutledge Rd. in the Orange Mound area.

Credit: Memphis Police Department

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Memphis Police are highlighting how they say steering wheel locks can help prevent car thefts after they said juveniles were caught on camera trying to steal a car.

MPD said on Sunday, May 21, 2023, officers were called about an attempted auto theft in the 1100 block of Rutledge Rd. in the Orange Mound area. A woman told investigators she had parked about 6:30 a.m., then came back about 2:20 p.m. to find her car had been moved, a window broken, and the steering column damaged.

Investigators released video which showed juvenile suspects casing the cars, then one getting in her car and driving forward a short way before abandoning it in the parking lot.

MPD said the car had a steering wheel lock which prevented the wheel from being turned.

Anyone with information on the suspects is asked to call CrimeStoppers at 901-528-CASH.

MPD said steering wheel locks can be bought online, or at auto parts and retails stores. And Memphis Police said to keep an eye on its social media pages for the occasional giveaways.

Steering Wheel Lock Stops Auto Theft 1100 Rutland Road Report #2305029316ME MEMPHIS, TN – On May 21, 2023, at 4:30 pm, officers responded to an attempted auto theft in the 1100 block of Rutledge Road. Officers were advised that the victim parked her vehicle at approximately 6:30 am. At 2:20 pm, she was advised her vehicle had been moved, the window was broken, and the steering column was damaged. The video showed the suspects enter the vehicle and drive it forward before they abandoned it. The victim had a steering wheel lock preventing the wheel from being turned. Officers were advised that the victim believed her lock saved her vehicle. The suspects in this case are male juveniles. Steering wheel locks can be purchased online, at auto part stores, and at big box retail stores. Also, continue to check the Memphis Police Department’s social media pages for additional giveaways. Anyone with information about this incident should call Crime Stoppers at 528-CASH. You will be given a secret ID number, and your identification will remain completely anonymous. You can also submit your tip at http://www.crimestopmem.org, where you will be able to review wanted fugitives and safely send investigators any helpful information on the suspect or suspects responsible for this crime. You can submit anonymous tips from our free and secure mobile app by searching your app store for "P3 Tips". If an arrest is made, you could be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2000 from Crime Stoppers of Memphis and Shelby County, Inc.
Posted by Memphis Police Department est.1827 on Thursday, June 1, 2023