PORTLAND, Ore. — Over the weekend, the Portland Police Bureau launched a proactive operation aimed at finding stolen cars, responding to growing concerns among residents affected by car theft.
KGW spoke with residents impacted by car theft, many of whom expressed their relief at the police's renewed efforts.
Austin Molkenbur, a victim of car theft, shared his recent experience. After overcoming homelessness and securing an apartment in the Laurelhurst neighborhood, he was devastated to discover his 2001 Honda Civic had been stolen.
“I instinctively knew that it was my vehicle,” Molkenbur said. “I didn’t have time to put shoes on— just threw some pants on and out the door I went. Chased them about a block and a half up Stark.”
Unable to catch up, Molkenbur called the police who informed him that stolen vehicles are often recovered within a week. In a bid for help, he began posting details about his car on Facebook and joined a community group, PDX Stolen Cars known for connecting victims of theft.
“They will keep an eye out. There is community watch, people have Ring doorbell cameras but that only catches so much,” he noted.
The Portland police are collaborating with the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, which used an airplane to track stolen cars during the weekend operation. Molkenbur believes many thefts are committed by individuals facing their own hardships, but he still seeks answers about his stolen vehicle.
“It’s painful. Not feeling safe or like your belongings are safe,” he said.
Hayleyann Evers, who had her 1998 Toyota Corolla stolen in August, also felt violated. She reported the theft immediately but did not expect to see her car again. Fortunately, a Portland officer located it after noticing it looked out of place.
“The thief was sentenced to jail time,” Evers said.
However, she now faces the financial burden of approximately $1,000 in damages from break-ins.
Finding solace in the PDX Stolen Cars group, Evers emphasized the importance of community support in addressing the issue.
“If we can come together in collective community action at their root, I think everyone will be the better for it,” she said.
The ongoing efforts by the Portland police aim to address the growing problem of car theft and restore a sense of security among residents.
