Philadelphia DA's Office launches new unit focused on solving, prosecuting carjacking cases

The District Attorney's Office says carjackings are "deeply concerning threats to the safety and security of Philadelphia residents."

PHILADELPHIA - The Philadelphia District Attorney’s Office has announced the creation of a new unit that will focus on solving and prosecuting carjacking cases in the city.

District Attorney Larry Krasner made the announcement during a press conference Thursday afternoon, as city officials say carjackings continue to pose increased public safety concerns in Philadelphia and other major cities.

According to data from the Philadelphia Police Department, the city saw 1,000 carjackings in 2022 by September.

Police data highlights Philadelphia's continuing problem with carjackings

New data from the Philadelphia Police Department obtained by FOX 29 show there have been more than 750 carjackings so far this year in the city. The detailed report showed more than 500 involved a gun and over 500 happened when the victim's vehicle was parked.

The District Attorney’s Office says year-to-date, they have charged all but one of the 305 arrests made in connection to alleged carjackings. Of those 305 arrests made by Philadelphia police, officials say 159 involved adult suspects and 146 were juveniles.

The Carjacking Enforcement Unit will work with law enforcement to help solve and prosecute carjacking cases in the city, Krasner announced. The unit will also work closely with the DAO's Gun Violence Taskforce and Non-Fatal Shooting Unit.

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Officials say the arrest of Jonathan Akubu, the suspected leader of a Philadelphia carjacking ring, was the catalyst for the development of the unit that revealed an international connection to stolen cars in Philadelphia. Akubu was also charged in connection with two murder investigations.

"This new unit will enable my office to pursue strong cases built on solid evidence in order to hold accountable those who are threatening the lives and security of Philadelphia residents. This initiative will help us more vigorously prosecute dangerous individuals such as 28-year-old Jonathan Akubu, who is right now off of the streets and behind bars with no bail awaiting his day in court," said Krasner.

Krasner says the unit will be led by Assistant District Attorney Helen Park. Park will be joined by nine other ADAs from the office’s juvenile, homicide, non-fatal shooting, and major trial units.