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Released: 3/10/2025 

DRPA Officers Hand Out Free Steering Wheel Locks to PATCO Riders

Next event at Westmont Station in the coming weeks

The Delaware River Port Authority (DRPA) Police Department is proud to share the success of our recent steering wheel lock giveaway.

DRPA officers were recently at the PATCO Ferry Avenue and Collingwood Stations. During those events, a total of 66 steering wheel locks were given out free of charge to eligible Hyundai and Kia vehicle owners.

The officers had a great time connecting with riders, helping them to stay safe and keeping their vehicles protected.

The initiative is in response to a national issue linked to a social media trend demonstrating how to access certain Hyundai and Kia vehicles without a key. The target of these thefts is Hyundai and Kia vehicles lacking push-button ignitions and immobilizing anti-theft devices. Generally, the models affected are Hyundai vehicles from 2015-2022 and Kia vehicles from 2011-2022. While the issue is not isolated to PATCO, DRPA Police are committed to helping protect the property of PATCO riders.

“Our goal is to keep PATCO riders’ cars safe and ensure our train stations remain secure,” said Sergeant Joseph Ebling, who oversees the program. “We want to deter this national issue away from our stations and our backyard, and offering these locks is one way we can help prevent this activity.”

Officers will continue to do similar outreach events with the next one being held at the Westmont Station in the coming weeks. Stay tuned to our social media accounts for the dates and times.

A big thank you to everyone who participated – together, we’re making our streets safer!

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