Police Surveillance Operation in Peel
Investigators in Peel, west of Toronto, are involved in a high-speed surveillance operation targeting a couple connected to a surge in auto thefts in the region. The police are witnessing a significant change in the handling of stolen vehicles.
Shift in Auto Theft Trends
Previously, most stolen cars were exported, often located in places like West Africa. However, there’s a new trend where thieves engage in armed home invasions to steal keys and keep the stolen vehicles within Canada. Detective Sergeant Greg O’Connor’s team has recovered hundreds of stolen vehicles, highlighting this shift.
VIN Manipulation by Thieves
Thieves have increasingly manipulated the 17-digit Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). They replace the VIN of stolen vehicles with one from a similar vehicle that is either totaled or registered in another province or US state. This exploitation is possible due to the lack of communication between government registration systems.
The Case of Derek Crocker
Derek Crocker, a victim of this scheme, spent $60,000 on a vehicle from a dealership, only to discover it was stolen. The vehicle’s remote start app and gas mileage readings never worked correctly, raising suspicions. After an accident, mismatched parts revealed the vehicle’s true status. Derek discovered that the VIN on his truck had been replaced, leading him to track the original VIN to another vehicle in Utah.
Lucrative Market for Stolen Vehicles
The market for stolen vehicles is highly profitable. Criminals make thousands from selling these vehicles, and insurance does not cover the loss for unsuspecting buyers like Derek. The Peel police, including Deputy Chief Nick Movich, emphasize the need for a national registration system to address this issue.
Undercover Surveillance Operations
Peel police invited reporters to witness an undercover operation targeting a suspect known for selling stolen cars with forged VINs. The suspect, followed discreetly by detectives, was eventually caught at a Costco gas station. The suspect, identified as 24-year-old Milton, faces 168 charges related to trafficking stolen cars and fraudulent documentation.
Systemic Issues and Solutions
Despite federal and provincial efforts, including increased funding and more arrests, auto theft remains a significant problem. Police acknowledge that arrests alone will not resolve the issue, underscoring the need for systemic changes and better coordination among registration systems to combat this growing crime.
Conclusion
Auto theft has evolved into a sophisticated operation involving VIN manipulation and armed invasions, affecting numerous unsuspecting buyers. Enhanced national coordination and systemic reforms are essential to address and mitigate this widespread issue.
