DC police to hand out more free AirTags Tuesday amid rise in car theft

Washington, D.C., residents can once again get free Apple AirTags and Tiles on Tuesday as part of an effort launched in November by Mayor Muriel Bowser amid a rise in car thefts.

The Metropolitan Police Department released data for 2023 this week, showing motor vehicle theft is up by 82%. There were 959 carjackings in Washington in 2023, and police union officials blame the council’s “misguided legislation” for the situation.

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Starting in November, Washington residents across districts 1, 5, and 6 had the opportunity to receive free AirTags to make it easier for officers to track down stolen vehicles.

“We have had success with similar programs where we make it easier for the community and MPD to work together — from our Private Security Camera Incentive Program to the wheel lock distribution program — and we will continue to use all the tools we have, and add new tools, to keep our city safe,” Bowser said in a Nov. 1 statement.

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On Jan. 2, residents in District 7 who live in the service areas of 705 and 708 can get free AirTags for iPhone users and Tile trackers for Android users installed on a first come, first served basis by MPD Community Outreach officers. Residents need to come in their vehicle and bring their ID and proof of address. Devices will be handed out from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Ballou Senior High School, located at 3401 4th Street, SE.

The device, which can also be installed on a motorcycle, does not need to be returned to the MPD and can be moved to a new vehicle if the owner switches cars.