Arcata police reporting skyrocketing number of auto thefts

ARCATA, Calif.(KIEM)- There’s a warning from Arcata police tonight about a skyrocketing number of auto thefts in the community.

Police tell us reports of stolen cars rose 78-percent last year and, they say the trend has continued into this year.

Many of those thefts involved vehicles taken off the street, with some stolen right in front of the owners’ homes.

Arcata police say older model Hondas and Toyotas seem to be the most popular for thieves to steal.

“It’s a whole lot worse now than it’s ever been. It’s bad that it seems like there is no repercussion. And it seems like it’s the same people doing it, getting away with it,” said Richard Redner, Humboldt County resident.