Federal funding will support a data-based approach to investigations, crime prevention

Media Contact: Jennifer Ciaccia, 216-250-5863, jciaccia@cuyahogacounty.gov

CUYAHOGA COUNTY, OH – The Cuyahoga County Sheriff’s Department received a $1 million grant from the Department of Justice to combat carjackings throughout the County.

"Cuyahoga County is committed to protecting our residents and creating safer streets for all," said Cuyahoga County Executive Chris Ronayne. "Public safety is the foundation of a strong community. With this funding, we can invest in tools and resources needed to promote healthy and sustainable living in neighborhoods throughout the County."

In collaboration with the Crime Strategies Unit of the Cuyahoga County Prosecutor's Office, the Sheriff's Department will focus on utilizing data-driven strategies and insights to identify patterns and assess risk factors associated with carjacking offenses. The data will be used to enhance public safety through the implementation of effective theft prevention measures.

The funding will support staffing, including the hiring of a Research Analyst through Cleveland State University. The positions will be dedicated solely to the investigation and prevention of carjackings. Additionally, the Sheriff’s Department will engage local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies on investigative measures and enforcement support.

“As the County Sheriff, my top priority is ensuring Cuyahoga County residents are safe,” said Cuyahoga County Sheriff Harold Pretel. “This funding will allow us to develop and implement strategies to deter violent crimes associated with carjackings, including aggravated thefts, shootings, and homicides.”

In recent years, Cuyahoga County has seen an increase in violent thefts of motor vehicles, with a spike in data in 2021 showing over 420 crimes classified as carjackings. In many cases, the offenders are juveniles, and in most cases the crimes involve firearms. The data collection portion of this effort will include information on offenders, including what court ordered or community-based programs they have been or are currently associated with. By taking a holistic approach, and leveraging statistical analysis and crime data, the goal of the initiative is to develop targeted interventions that significantly reduce these violent crimes and reduce recidivism rates.

“Carjackings are not only a significant problem in Cuyahoga County, they are also a conduit to violent crimes, and these crimes do not stop at city borders,” said Prosecutor Michael C. O’Malley. “With this grant and working with our law enforcement partners, we can share vital information throughout Cuyahoga County to reduce carjackings and increase the safety of our residents and visitors.”

Residents are reminded to take these important steps to avoid becoming a victim of a carjacking:

• Park safely. Park in well-lit areas and avoid walking to your car alone, when possible, especially at night.
• Be aware of your surroundings. Pay close attention to anyone who seems to be lurking or following you. If you feel like someone is following you, call 9-1-1.
• Know how carjackers set up victims. This can include bumping into your vehicle with theirs or pretending to be a stranded motorist. If you are involved in a scenario that makes you feel uneasy, call 9-1-1 and travel to a nearby police station.
• Be aware when using the ATM. Use machines that aren’t secluded to avoid putting yourself in danger.
• Report suspicious or illegal activity to law enforcement. If you see something, say something. Call 9-1-1 in emergencies or your city’s non-emergency number for non-urgent matters.