First-ever auto theft summit tackles stolen vehicles in Mississauga and Brampton

Police and auto industry stakeholders are coming together this week to form a united front against vehicle thieves in Mississauga and Brampton.

Residents across the Region of Peel have been dealing with a spike in auto thefts in recent years, with Peel Regional Police saying there were nearly 6,000 stolen vehicles in the Region last year alone.

To help combat the growing trend, law enforcement officials and auto industry insiders are holding an Auto Theft Summit this Friday (March 8) at the Marriott Toronto Airport Hotel.

Ron Chatha, Chair of the Peel Police Services Board, said the conference is the first of its kind.

He said questions about what’s being done to combat car thieves is “the primary concern” he hears from residents and hopes the conference will yield solutions for auto crime enforcement and prevention.

“The rise in auto thefts and carjackings, and their direct impact on violent crime in the GTHA and across Ontario, is a growing concern and we will take action,” said Ron Chatha, Chair of the Peel Police Services Board.

The summit comes weeks after the City of Brampton announced a pilot program to give thousands of Brampton car owners free Faraday bags – a signal-blocking pouch that can prevent thieves from copying your vehicle’s keyfob.

Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown is also calling on Ottawa to recall the 10 most stolen vehicles in Canada with keyless ignitions and keyless locks “until the technology is fixed.”

The Auto Theft Summit starts on Friday at 9:00 a.m. and will be live-streamed for residents to watch and take part in the event. Details can be found on the Peel Police Services Board website.