Auto theft has become a major issue in Toronto, with more than 12,000 vehicles stolen in the city last year, averaging to 34 vehicles stolen a day or one vehicle every 40 minutes. The rise in auto thefts has led to an increase in home break-ins related to vehicle thefts as well. To combat this issue, the federal government is planning to implement stiffer auto theft penalties as part of Budget 2024. Ottawa is creating new criminal offences to crack down on organized crime, violent car thefts, money laundering, and the possession and distribution of technology that can aid in stealing cars. As a result, private security firms such as Corporate Protection and Investigative Services, Ultimate Security Services, Condor Security, and GardaWorld have seen a surge in requests from residents seeking protection against auto theft.
Private security firms have found themselves on the frontline of the fight against auto theft, with many homeowners seeking prevention services to safeguard their properties. Ultimate Security Services reported a five-time surge in clients seeking specific services to protect against break-ins. Similarly, Condor Security has seen an increase in requests for physical patrols in various neighborhoods, including both affluent areas like Bridle Path, Rosedale, and Forest Hill, as well as less affluent communities in Vaughan and North York. GardaWorld has also noted a spike in service requests from residential neighborhoods across Toronto, offering services such as home alarm system monitoring, alarm response, marked vehicle patrols, and security details. However, these security officials emphasize that they are not a substitute for the police and encourage residents to call 911 if they witness a crime like an auto theft.
Security guards are trained to gather as much information as possible while calling 911 if they witness a crime, such as an auto theft. While they aim to create a level of deterrence, security officials acknowledge that they do not have the same equipment or backup as the police. Despite this, they play a crucial role in assisting communities with matters related to auto theft, especially when police resources are stretched thin. Moving forward, security services are likely to have an even more significant role in combating auto theft, as they can provide constant surveillance and resources that the police may not have the capacity for. Collaboration between all levels of government, private industries, and communities is essential in the fight against organized crime and the protection of communities.
While not everyone can afford to hire a private security service, there are ways to deter auto theft. Simple measures such as keeping houses well-lit at night, investing in steering-wheel clubs or proximity detectors, and fostering community collaboration can go a long way in deterring criminals. Neighbors can play a vital role in keeping communities safe by being vigilant and reporting any suspicious activities. Ultimately, a collective effort is needed to combat auto theft effectively, as it is likely to continue to increase due to its profitability for crime syndicates. By providing communities with the tools and resources to protect themselves, residents can work together to keep criminals away and safeguard their neighborhoods.
