The Premier is facing continued pressure to crack down on youth crime as staggering new police data reveals lifts the lid on the extent of the crisis. 

More than 19,000 cars were stolen in Queensland last year, with December seeing the most thefts in the state’s history.

Today reporter Andrea Crothers told Laurel, Gary & Mark 2133 cars were stolen in December alone, equating to around 70 cars a day.

“The south-east were hit, Townsville and Cairns as well,” she said. “It’s a lot of repeat offenders.

“There’s data out from Queensland Children’s Court, which says 17 per cent of youth offenders, they’re responsible for about half of all stolen car crimes last financial year.”

It comes as an open letter, penned by more than 50 support groups and youth justice experts, is published.

They’re calling on the state government to get smarter, not tougher on youth crime and will hold a press conference in the city this morning.

Press PLAY below to hear all the ‘staggering’ youth crime figures out today 

Image: Getty