Thieves are targeting Honda vehicles across Portland, specifically stealing electronic sensors. The Portland Police Bureau has reported a rise in these thefts, with at least 18 incidents documented since mid-November. Notably, Ron Tonkin Honda dealership in Southeast Portland reported that 17 vehicles in their lot were affected.
While thefts have been reported throughout the city, Southeast Portland has seen a “significant number” of incidents, particularly between Southeast Stark Street and Southeast Woodstock Boulevard, as well as Southeast Cesar Chavez Boulevard to Southeast 82nd Avenue.
The stolen radar sensors, worth approximately $2,000 each, are vital for the safety features of Honda cars. Police are urging Honda owners to remain vigilant in light of this trend. In one instance, an incident in the Montavilla neighborhood was captured on surveillance footage, leading authorities to seek public assistance in identifying the suspect seen in the video.
The Portland Police Bureau has issued an urgent warning to Honda owners as thieves target vehicles across the city. These sophisticated radar sensors are crucial components of the vehicles’ safety systems, making their theft particularly concerning for drivers. The sensors are part of Honda’s advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), which include features like collision warning, adaptive cruise control, and emergency braking. These sensors represent a lucrative target for thieves who may be selling them on the black market or to unscrupulous repair shops.
Authorities obtained surveillance footage of a theft in the Montavilla neighborhood. They are now seeking public assistance in identifying the suspect captured in the video, hoping this lead will help curb the rising number of incidents.
Police are strongly urging Honda owners to remain vigilant and take additional security measures to protect their vehicles. The pattern of these incidents suggests an organized effort targeting specific vehicle components, prompting increased patrol attention in the most affected areas.
