Auto-Theft Crisis Creates Heightened Concern for Personal Safety in Canadian Communities
As Canada’s auto-theft crisis continues to reach new heights, a recent Angus Reid survey reveals that the majority of Canadians are feeling unsafe in their own communities. The survey, conducted among 2,503 Canadian adults, highlights the growing apprehension surrounding the surge in vehicle thefts across the country.
The survey results indicate that 69 percent of respondents are now worried about their personal safety and the safety of their families due to the rise in auto-theft incidents. Additionally, a staggering 84 percent expressed concerns about the increasing crime rates in their communities. The fear of having their vehicles stolen has also risen significantly, with 68 percent of Canadians admitting to feeling worried about their cars being targeted by criminals.
This heightened concern is a recent development, according to Bryan Gast, Vice President of Investigative Services at Équité Association. He explains that auto-theft was not previously considered a significant issue, as it was often seen as a victimless crime. However, with the current surge in thefts, people are feeling vulnerable and victimized, with some experiencing multiple vehicle theft incidents. Gast emphasizes, It’s at a state now where it’s never been. I’ve never seen it this bad.
To address this growing crisis, 66 percent of survey respondents believe that the government, auto-manufacturers, and law enforcement need to collaborate on solutions. Suggestions include mandating the installation of anti-theft technology in new vehicles (as proposed by 63 percent of respondents) and a call for increased government action in dismantling organized crime rings (mentioned by 64 percent of respondents).
The auto-theft trend report released by Équité Association further illuminates the severity of the crisis. The report reveals that vehicle thefts in Canada have continued to rise, with a total of 34,861 stolen vehicles reported in the first half of 2023 alone. Ontario has experienced a significant spike in thefts, with a 31 percent increase compared to the same period last year. Québec also witnessed a notable rise of 17 percent in reported thefts.
Toronto, in particular, has been badly affected, with the highest number of thefts reported in any city across Canada. So far this year, Toronto has seen 5,077 stolen vehicles, reflecting a 34 percent increase from the previous year. The auto crime rates have also surged in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), rising by 34 percent in Toronto itself and a staggering 82 percent in York Region.
These soaring auto-theft rates contribute to Canada’s reputation as a major source country for the illicit international vehicle trade. Bryan Gast explains that Canada’s abundance of vehicles and criminals’ advanced technology enable stolen cars to be exported overseas. The profits from this illegal trade are often channeled into funding terrorism, drug trafficking, and human trafficking.
Gast acknowledges that historically, car thieves have faced lenient consequences for their crimes, making auto-theft an attractive and low-risk venture for organized crime groups. However, he remains optimistic about the future, as government and police initiatives are intensifying to tackle this issue. Gast believes that within the next six months, auto-theft rates will either decline or stabilize.
In the meantime, he advises Canadians to take precautions to protect their vehicles. This includes parking in secure areas, avoiding leaving vehicles unlocked or running, utilizing signal-blocking Faraday bags for car key fobs, and installing locks on the vehicle’s OBD port. Traditional measures such as wheel and steering locks can also be effective deterrents.
While the auto-theft crisis continues to pose a significant challenge for Canadians, the concerted efforts of various stakeholders and increased vigilance by vehicle owners may help stem the tide and restore a sense of security in communities across the country.
