Almost 50 per cent more cars were stolen from Oshawa to Pickering than last year

Durham Regional Police have reported a steep rise in car thefts across the eight municipalities they control, with 48 per cent more stolen this year than last.

Between January and May 2021 carjackers stole 215 vehicles across the Region. In that same timeframe in 2022, they made off with 318 cars.

This trend carries across the entire Greater Toronto Area. As a result of this increase numerous police services, including Durham, Ontario, Peel and Toronto, joined a York-led taskforce to combat the crime.

DRPS said there’s not way to completely ensure a car will not be stolen. However, they did offer some advice on how to avoid it;

• Always park where it is well lit or in a locked garage if possible,
• Never leave a car running unattended,
• Buy a steering wheel lock or collar,
• Never leave a spare key in the car or outside the house,
• When not in use keep the key fob inside a radio resistant pouch or faraday bag. Anyone who needs one can email Cst Rice at [email protected]
• As long as one’s bed isn’t close to the window, DRPS advises drivers to keep the car keys on a bedside table so they can press the alarm button should something arouse suspicion.