The Canadian government is implementing new measures to address the surge in auto theft across the country. As part of Budget 2024, stiffer penalties for car theft are being introduced, with a focus on cracking down on organized crime, which is seen as a major factor driving the increase in stolen vehicles. New criminal offences related to violent car thefts, money laundering, and the possession and distribution of technology that aids in vehicle theft will also be added to the Criminal Code. Additionally, harsher punishments are being proposed for individuals who involve young people in car theft activities.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau hinted at the possibility of stronger penalties for auto theft during a national summit on combatting auto theft held in Ottawa. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre also proposed a mandatory minimum sentence of three years in jail for individuals convicted of three car thefts. The recent statistics show a significant increase in vehicle thefts in various regions of Canada, with a 50 percent increase in Quebec, nearly as much in Ontario, and a 35 percent increase in Atlantic Canada in 2022. The city of Toronto alone saw 9,600 vehicles stolen in the same year, which is a 300 percent increase from 2015.
The Canadian Vehicles Manufacturers Association has called for changes to the Criminal Code to address the issue of auto theft. The organization’s chief executive, Brian Kingston, highlighted how Canada has become a “source country” for stolen vehicles, with vehicle theft rates increasing at a faster rate in Canada than in the United States since 2021. The Liberal government is also targeting financial crimes in Budget 2024, allocating $30 million to the Canada Border Services Agency to combat money laundering and terrorist financing. Additionally, two million dollars will be dedicated to establishing the Canada Financial Crimes Agency.
Ottawa is allocating new funding in the budget to support Canada’s spy agency, the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), which plays a crucial role in addressing emerging global threats such as foreign interference and violent extremism. CSIS will receive $656 million over the next eight years to enhance its capabilities in combating these threats, which continue to pose risks to Canada’s democratic institutions, diaspora communities, and economic prosperity. The ongoing public inquiry into foreign interference, led by inquiry commissioner Quebec judge Marie-Josee Hogue, is focused on examining these threats, with an interim report expected to be released soon.
Overall, the Canadian government’s efforts to address the issue of auto theft and financial crimes through Budget 2024 are aimed at tackling the growing problem of organized crime and enhancing national security measures. By introducing stiffer penalties for auto theft, targeting money laundering and terrorist financing, and strengthening the capabilities of agencies like CSIS, Ottawa is taking proactive steps to ensure the safety and security of Canadians. The collaboration between government agencies, law enforcement, and other stakeholders is crucial in addressing the root causes of auto theft and other criminal activities plaguing the country.
