4,000 vehicles have been stolen in Mississauga and Brampton so far this year

More than 4,000 vehicles have been reported stolen in Mississauga and Brampton so far this year, and Peel cops hope a few common-sense tips will help reduce that number moving forward.

In officially kicking off Crime Prevention Week earlier today (Nov. 8), Peel Regional Police held a press conference and took to social media to focus on one particular area of concern–the rising number of car thefts.

“In recent years, vehicle theft has been a growing concern in the GTA,” Peel police Crime Prevention officers posted to Twitter. “Help reduce the opportunity for thieves to target your vehicle.”

The post includes a link to a one-minute police video that offers people a number of tips on how to avoid becoming a victim of car theft.

Const. Michael Wood, of Peel police Crime Prevention Services, said many of the more than 4,000 car thefts in Mississauga and Brampton so far in 2022 are preventable.

No matter the type of car theft, whether a so-called “warmup theft,” key reprogramming theft or a carjacking, Wood said some simple tips can reduce the chances of getting targeted.

Videos

In recent years vehicle theft has been a growing concern in the GTA. Help reduce the
opportunity for thieves to target your vehicle. Follow these #safetytips to help protect
yourself and your property. #CPWeek2022 #CrimePrevention @PeelPolice #CarJackings #CrimeMapping pic.twitter.com/aV25100lDL

— PRP – Community Safety & Well-Being (@PRPCSWB) November 8, 2022

“With the colder weather approaching, remember not to leave your vehicle running unattended. Thieves love warm vehicles, too,” said Wood, specifically referencing “warmup thefts.”

He added that whenever possible, car owners should park their vehicle in a home garage and use theft prevention tools such as steering wheel locks.

As far as carjackings are concerned, Wood says staying safe is the top priority.

“Remember, your safety is paramount. It’s far more important you get home to your loved ones than put up a fight for a vehicle,” he said.

Peel police Chief Nishan Duraiappah said at a news conference this morning at Peel police headquarters that law enforcement is looking to more community partnerships than ever before to prevent crime.

“We want to get ahead of crime before it occurs,” Duraiappah said, speaking to the importance of police and the community working together. “This is a shift across policing and prevention is one of the more important elements of it.”

The police chief cited Crime Stoppers and Safe City Mississauga as examples of key partnerships that help reduce crime.