Auto thefts have been on the rise over the past two years, and it is becoming a significant problem in London. In 2022 and 2023, London had over 2500 auto theft-related cases and the number continues to grow.
The London Police Service (LPS), has noticed a troubling increase in car thefts, mirroring a larger trend seen across Ontario. Compared to previous years, there has been a sudden rise of over 25% in vehicle-related crimes.
While auto thefts are rising in London and across Ontario, Insurance agencies are trying to prevent auto thefts by providing information on how to keep your vehicle safe.
Frances Moyne Gee is a Desjardin insurance agent here in London. Fran has been in the insurance industry for 15+ years and has never seen auto theft-related cases this high.
“Any Newer vehicles 2017 and up, like Range Rovers, Dodge Ram 1500s, Lexus RXs, and Toyota Highlanders”.
Fran said these vehicles are the main targets for organized crime rings. They are easy to steal as most have a push button key fob that can be accessed easily without having to damage the car.
“Some of these vehicles are higher end so they’re going to get top money for them”.
Fran said that organized crime rings are at fault for the thefts. They have been stealing these vehicles and shipping them to other countries. The vehicles are put in crates and transported via cargo ship.
Fran said, “They are probably Doing this to fund their drug money, or terrorist acts, or to get weapons”.
Insurance claims have doubled in the past year. Because of the thefts, insurance rates have continued to rise in London and across Ontario.
“Obviously more thefts equal more claims to the insurance company, and unfortunately it affects everyone’s insurance rates, so that’s one of the main reasons why insurance rates are going up. Just in the last year thefts have doubled in Canada. I’d say most of the insurance company’s rates are increasing across the board”.
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