IBC Says Partnerships Are Key in Fight Against Auto Theft

Insurance Bureau of Canada recently joined with Toronto Police in
announcing the initial results from Project Heat (Help Eliminate Auto
Theft).

In the first three weeks of the latest round of Project Heat,
Toronto Police have reportedly laid charges against 59 individuals in connection with auto theft. As a result of the project, an additional 350 charges have been laid in association with other criminal activity. IBC assisted the police by providing data to aid in the investigation of potentially stolen vehicles, and by creating flyers that were handed out by police to the public.

“Project Heat is prime example of what we can achieve together in the fight against auto theft,” said Terri MacLean, executive vice-president, Information and Investigations. “Insurance Bureau of Canada continues to work with Toronto Police and law enforcement agencies across the country because we recognize that partnerships are key in the battle against auto theft,” added MacLean.

IBC is reportedly calling on all levels of government to join in the fight against auto theft.

“The Criminal Code needs to define auto theft as a specific offence
and appropriate sentencing needs to be attributed to those who commit this crime. The courts must also take these crimes more seriously by handing down appropriate sentences,” said MacLean.

The overall cost of auto theft to Canadians is reportedly $1 billion annually when the cost for police, health care and prosecution are added. Auto theft accounts for $600 million in insurance losses annually. This translates into $48 per insurance policy.

As Project Heat reportedly demonstrates, auto theft is often connected with many forms of criminal activity and is reported to have been linked to terrorism here in North America.