Police Increase Patrols After Middletown Sees Spike In Car Thefts

September 23, 2025

A Middletown Township police SUV. File photo.

Police in the area are warning residents of a “sharp increase” in vehicle and wire thefts.

Officials are linking some of the crimes to organized groups from New Jersey.

The Middletown Township Police Department stated that surrounding communities, including Lower Makefield and Newtown townships, have also been targeted.

In a social media post, the department noted that some of the groups involved, one of which is called the “Kia Boys,” have been linked to the crimes.

According to police, stolen vehicles have been recovered in Trenton and Camden.

The department reported multiple recent thefts of Kia, Hyundai, Honda, Ford, Genesis, BMW, and Jeep models from residential neighborhoods and apartment complexes within Middletown Township. A firearm was also reported stolen during a theft.

Police have increased patrols in the northern part of the township near Big Oak Road and Township Line Road, where recent thefts have occurred.

The department is working with surrounding law enforcement agencies and the New Jersey State Police to share intelligence and apprehend those responsible, police said.

Officials advised residents on how to protect their vehicles, recommending they always lock their doors, roll up windows, and never leave keys, fobs, or firearms inside a vehicle, even in their own driveway.

The department also suggested using anti-theft devices such as steering wheel locks, tracking devices, and immobilizers. They recommended parking in well-lit areas or, if possible, inside a garage.

Residents are urged to be alert for suspicious activity, including groups of masked individuals, vehicles circling neighborhoods, or people trying door handles.

Anyone with information on the thefts or who sees suspicious activity is asked to call the Middletown Township Police Department at 215-949-1000. In an emergency, residents should call 9-1-1.

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