Auto theft, stock photo
The Ontario government is proposing new legislation aimed at fighting vehicle theft by giving police greater authority to search for and seize electronic devices commonly used in car thefts.
If passed, the amendment to the Highway Traffic Act would target items such as key fob programming tools, scanners, and smartphone apps that can be used to gain access to and steal vehicles.
The move follows a 16% decrease in vehicle thefts in 2024, but authorities say criminals are increasingly relying on keyless entry technology to commit these crimes. The legislation would also distinguish between criminal and lawful use of these devices – ensuring that auto dealers, repair shops, and roadside assistance services are not impacted.
Speaking with Zee Hamid, Milton MPP and Associate Solicitor General for Auto Theft and Bail Reform, he says the numbers continue to be promising as of late, but more needs to be done.
Read about the new helicopter coming to the Halton Police here.
When asked about the concerns residents have shared regarding so many criminals being easily let out on bail, MPP Hamid demanded meaningful bail reform from the federal government.
In tandem with the proposed changes, the province is permanently establishing the Major Auto Theft Prosecution Response Team. This dedicated group supports police in high-crime regions like Toronto, Ottawa, Brampton, Durham, Newmarket, London, and Windsor, offering legal guidance and helping dismantle organized crime networks.
Since its launch in April 2024, the team has handled over 80 prosecutions and assisted with more than 20 major investigations linked to more than 1,700 stolen or targeted vehicles. The effort builds on previous initiatives, such as the Safer Streets, Stronger Communities Act, 2024, which created a provincial offence for providing false vehicle identification numbers.
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