In response to increasing vehicle theft rates, the Rockville City Police Department (RCPD) will distribute a limited number of free steering wheel locks from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, March 23, at the RCPD station located at 2 W. Montgomery Ave.
The steering wheel locks, compatible with all vehicle makes and models, will be available while supplies last.
This distribution event will operate as a drive-up service. Participants should enter the RCPD parking lot from West Montgomery Avenue and exit onto South Washington Street. Residents need to provide their registration card so the police may verify their vehicle is registered in the city of Rockville.
Lieutenant Jason West explains the giveaway event in this video from city of Rockville 11.
In January, the RCPD formally requested steering wheel locks from the Hyundai Motor Company to provide to city residents. Hyundai and Kia models have accounted for 74% of reported vehicle thefts in Rockville since January.
Rockville experienced a 68% increase in vehicle thefts from 2022 to 2023, reflecting a nationwide trend affecting nearly every jurisdiction.
The lock giveaway is part of the RCPD’s ongoing efforts to combat vehicle theft. These efforts include increased patrols and public awareness campaigns on theft prevention tips.
Should the police give away all of the locks, they plan to request additional locks and continue distributing them to residents.
Photo courtesy city of Rockville
