Queen City News is reporting that a concerning trend in Charlotte has law enforcement on high alert. According to the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department, car thefts have more than doubled over this time last year. Car thefts are up 143% from the previous year and it’s much worse for Hyundai and Kia owners. Thefts of those vehicles from January 1st to June 30th are up nearly 2,000% over the past year. So far, CMPD has arrested 520 suspects for car theft, and of those 373 are juveniles. That’s up 293% from the previous year. To protect your vehicle, you should lock your doors, park in well-lit areas and use a steering wheel lock, police say.