JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) - Auto thefts are causing issues around the capital city, and Jackson Police Chief Joseph Wade is concerned.

The Jackson Police Department (JPD) hosted a Real-Time Command meeting to discuss the issue.

On Tuesday, nine stolen vehicles were recovered between Jackson police and Capitol police. JPD shared up-to-date information about the crimes during the meeting.

“We are sharing the data, the numbers on what they look like, whether they're good or bad. We're being transparent about our numbers, our crime numbers," said Wade.

The chief believes addressing the auto thefts will help lower homicides in the city. Wade said sometimes the stolen vehicles lead to suspects committing other crimes.

“Once those vehicles are stolen, then they use that vehicle to go out and commit other crimes, such as robberies, carjackings and unfortunately, murders, as well. We've had several stolen Kias and Hyundais that were used in murder cases and in cases where they fired a lot of shots in particular neighborhoods at individuals," he said.

According to the chief, the Kias and Hyundais are easily stolen in Jackson.

“Not only in the City of Jackson, but across the country is something that recalls have been done on these vehicles, but they still have not alleviated the issue," Wade stated.

According to Wade, there have been more than 500 auto thefts reported for the year.