Here's how police in York Region are battling rising vehicle thefts
Police in York Region launched a multi-faceted campaign called 'Operation Auto Guard' designed to educate vehicle owners and put the brakes on vehicle thefts.
- Download the CTV News app now and get local alerts on your device
- Get local breaking news and updates sent to your email inbox
York Regional Police (YRP) reports a 50 per cent spike in vehicle thefts compared to last year, with most thefts happening in the southern part of the region, particularly in Markham, Richmond Hill, and Vaughan.
But, police say the problem is prevalent everywhere far too frequently.
An average of 12 vehicles are reported stolen in York Region every day, with that number on pace to hit a record 4,600 stolen vehicles this year.
"Make no mistake, we are cognizant of the crime that is happening in the north end of the district," said Insp. Ahmad Salhia.
"Organized crime is involved in this 100 per cent. This is being funded and fueled by organized crime," the inspector added.
Oliver Garett lives in Barrie but often works in Newmarket and said he's noticed the growing problem. "I've seen lots of people use wheel locks and rim locks as well to stop it from happening."
As part of Operation Auto Guard, the police service started distributing Faraday bags for owners with keyless fobs. The bags are designed to protect keyless car fobs from hackers intercepting data to steal vehicles.
So far, police have handed out roughly 3,300 Faraday bags, with another 13,000 more arriving soon for distribution.
Those interested in obtaining one can visit one of the police detachments in York Region. However, it's important to note that while these bags provide protection, they are not foolproof.
Vehicle owners are encouraged to place the bag and their keys away from the front door of their home or business.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
![](https://www.ctvnews.ca/polopoly_fs/1.6972157.1721587842!/httpImage/image.jpg_gen/derivatives/landscape_800/image.jpg)
Joe Biden drops out of 2024 race, endorses Kamala Harris to be Democratic nominee
U.S. President Joe Biden dropped out of the 2024 race for the White House on Sunday, ending his bid for re-election after doubts were raised about his fitness for office. Soon after, he endorsed Vice-President Kamala Harris to take his place in the November election.
Justin Trudeau reacts to Joe Biden announcing he won't run for re-election
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau responded to the news that U.S. President Joe Biden won’t run for re-election Sunday, calling Biden a 'true friend.'
Joe Biden wants to pass the baton to Kamala Harris. Here's how that might work
With U.S. President Joe Biden ending his re-election bid and endorsing Vice-President Kamala Harris, Democrats now must navigate a shift that is unprecedented this late in an election year.
The pilot who died in crash after releasing skydivers near Niagara Falls has been identified
NEW YORK (AP) — Officials on Sunday released the name of a pilot who died in a skydiving flight after her passengers jumped from the aircraft near the Niagara Falls.
Woman found dead in the water near Sunset Beach: Vancouver police
Investigators were at Vancouver’s Sunset Beach after a woman’s body was found in the water Sunday morning, according to authorities.
Ottawa man waiting nearly a year for car to be fixed at Acura dealership
An Ottawa man says he’s been waiting nearly a year for his car to be repaired after it was damaged during a storm in August.
Canadian musicians struggle to get visas to perform in the U.S., some cancel shows
Backlogs and processing delays of temporary U.S. visas required by entertainers, athletes and artists has forced some Canadian bands to cancel U.S. tour dates because paperwork wasn't processed in time.
Joy in Newfoundland after 'Lucky 7' fishers survive harrowing days lost at sea
There was a powerful word being repeated in the joyful Newfoundland community of New-Wes-Valley on Sunday: 'Miracle.'
A Florida woman was killed 24 years ago. DNA evidence just helped police make an arrest in the cold case
A Florida woman’s brutal killing nearly 25 years ago may finally be solved after authorities arrested the suspect this week, according to the Sanford Police Department.