A majority of Canadians are deeply worried about the increasing number of vehicle thefts, a recent survey found.
According to a report by the Équité Association covering the period from January to June 2023, the persistently high levels of auto theft were a concern for 84% of Canadians.
The statistics for the first half of 2023 were alarming, with most Canadian provinces witnessing a surge in private passenger vehicle thefts year-over-year. The trend builds on record-breaking numbers reported in 2022.
“The majority of Canadians are clearly worried about how this alarming increase in auto theft will impact the crime rate in their communities, and they are especially concerned for their personal safety and the safety of their families,” said Équité Association CEO Terri O’Brien.
A total of 34,861 vehicles were stolen during this period, with Ontario leading the pack at 15,044 reported thefts, marking a substantial 31% increase compared to the same period in 2022.
Quebec followed closely behind, with 7,831 thefts, reflecting a 17% year-over-year increase.
Despite a national vehicle recovery rate of 57%, recoveries in Quebec and Ontario remain below average, at 38% and 46%, respectively. Meanwhile, Atlantic Canada boasts a notably higher recovery rate of 70%.
The data reveals a concerning pattern, as the majority of stolen vehicles in Ontario and Quebec are models from 2019 or newer. In 2022 Ontario experienced a whopping 48% year-over-year increase, and Quebec saw a 50% year-over-year surge in auto thefts.
The Équité Association’s found that organized crime is a large driver of auto theft. Stolen vehicles often find their way overseas through the Port of Montreal or are re-VINed for domestic resale. The attraction of high-profit margins and the low risk of consequences continue to lure criminals into the auto black market.
Criminal activity poses a significant threat to public safety, as auto theft incidents can escalate into violent carjackings. Furthermore, the profits generated from auto theft and insurance fraud are known to fund other illicit activities, including drug trafficking, arms dealing, and even terrorism.
Notably, the primary focus of organized crime rings in Canada is to steal new and luxury vehicles.
The Greater Toronto Area (GTA) has been disproportionately affected by the auto theft crisis. Toronto alone witnessed a 34.3% year-over-year increase in auto thefts during the first half of 2023.
Data from York Regional Police services showed a staggering 82% increase in auto thefts when comparing the first half of 2023 to 2022.
