In Missouri, there were 1,240 carjackings in 2017. Not all of these incidents resulted in theft or damage to the victim’s vehicle. The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department has released data from its year-end crime report that shows a decrease in carjacking incidents overall, but an increase in the number of aggravated assaults. According to the report, there were 157 aggravated assaults (a category that includes carjacking and robbery) reported between January 1 and December 31 of 2017. That’s compared to 153 during the same time period in 2016. However, when you look at total carjackings – which include both theft and aggravated assault incidents – there was a 36% increase in total cases during the same time period.
What is a carjacking?
When a car is taken without the owner’s consent, it is considered a carjacking. According to the FBI, carjacking is the theft or attempted theft of a motor vehicle from a person who is not the owner. In St Louis, carjackings have been on the rise in recent years.
Between Jan 1, 1996 and Dec 31, 2016 there were 1,893 reported carjackings in America. Of those, 1,818 were in Missouri alone. That’s an average of 178 carjackings per year. However, during that same time period there were only 62 robberies where the victim was forced to drive away in the vehicle. This tells us that carjackings are more common than robberies where someone is forced to drive away in their car.
There are a few reasons for this increase in carjackings in St Louis. One reason is that many people now use vehicles as means of transportation. So if someone can take your vehicle without you having any fight back it makes it much easier for them to commit other crimes. Another reason is that many people now leave their vehicles unlocked when they are not using them. This makes it much easier for someone else to steal them
How common are carjackings in St Louis Mo?
Carjackings are a growing problem in the United States. In fact, according to the National Crime Victimization Survey, carjackings have increased by almost 50% since 2000.
This makes St Louis MO one of the most vulnerable cities for carjackers. In 2017, there were 7 carjackings in St Louis Mo. That’s about one carjacking every two weeks!
One possible reason for this increase is that smartphones make it easier for criminals to conduct their crimes. Criminals can use apps such as Uber or Lyft to locate cars with drivers nearby. Then, they can rob the driver at gunpoint.
This type of crime is not limited to any particular city or area. So, whether you’re living in St Louis MO or any other city in the US, be sure to keep your car doors locked and your windows rolled up at all times!
How to avoid becoming a victim of a carjacking
If you are like most people, you probably do not think car jackings are that common. After all, they only happen in big cities, right? Well, according to recent reports, carjackings have been on the rise in St Louis Missouri.
There were a total of nine carjackings in St Louis Mo during the month of June alone. This is a 59% increase from the same time last year. And it is not just St Louis that is seeing an increase in carjacking; incidents across the country are on the rise as well.
Why are carjackings becoming more common? There are many possible explanations. One reason could be that criminals are getting more desperate as the economy continues to decline. Another reason could be that robbers are targeting luxury vehicles more often because they carry more money and valuables.
Whatever the reason may be, it is important for people to be aware of their surroundings and to take precautions when traveling in public transportation or using public areas such as parks or shopping malls. Here are a few tips to help you stay safe when traveling:
Stay aware of your surroundings at all times. If someone approaches you unexpectedly, do not hesitate to scream or fight off your attacker
What to do if you are carjacked
If you find yourself carjacked, there are a few things you can do to try to get away and protect yourself.
The first step is to stay calm. If you can keep your composure, it will help reduce the chances of getting hurt or being taken into custody.
If you are able, try to get your hands free and start yelling for help. Not only will this draw attention to yourself, but it will also give you a possible opportunity to get away if the carjacker is distracted or shaken up.
If you are unable to free yourself, don’t panic. The carjacker may not want to hurt you and may be willing to let you go if you cooperate. Try not to make any sudden movements or show any signs of fear, and be polite and cooperative.
Conclusion
According to the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, car jackings in Missouri increased by 234% from 2016 to 2017. While this increase may seem like a serious issue, it’s important to remember that not all carjackings are the same. In fact, the vast majority of carjackings involve cars being taken without the victim knowing. If you’re ever in danger of being carjacked, don’t panic; know your options and use them wisely. Stay calm and protect yourself accordingly.