In Ontario, a car is stolen every 14 minutes - and the problem is particularly bad in Brampton and Mississauga, which have seen a 187 per cent increase in auto thefts since 2019.
Car thieves could be banned from driving for life under new legislation meant to help deter the growing problem of auto theft in the province.
"Car theft is a cowardly and often violent crime that can traumatize victims and communities who experience it," said Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria in announcing the legislation Tuesday morning in Toronto.
"Our government is sending a clear message to those who commit these crimes and using every tool in our tool box to keep them off our streets." Under the proposed new Ontario law, anyone convicted of motor vehicle theft would automatically lose their licence for 10 years. A second conviction would mean a 15-year suspension; three convictions and the suspension is for life. Critics, however, said the new penalties will have little effect.
This story is from the May 15, 2024 edition of Toronto Star.
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This story is from the May 15, 2024 edition of Toronto Star.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
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