The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) has identified an auto theft trend taking place in the region of Halton elsewhere throughout the GTA and is issuing a warning and updated theft prevention tips for residents.
The HRPS has seen a spike in thefts where thieves break into a home and target keys of high-end automobiles parked in the driveway. Most often, thieves are looking for unlocked doors; however, in some cases, suspects have broken windows or forced doors open to gain entry and grab keys left near the door.
This year, there have been approximately 20 break-ins of this style in Oakville, approximately 10 in Burlington, and 10 in Milton/ Halton Hills.
The vehicles commonly targeted are Mercedes and Lexus SUVs, and Cadillac Escalades.
These thefts are typically occurring overnight and in the early morning. To date, none of the thefts have been violent.
Police recommend following these safety tips:
- Do not confront someone breaking into your home. Instead, call police immediately.
- Lock the doors to your residence.
- Park high-end vehicles in a garage or have the vehicle blocked-in by another vehicle.
- Do not keep keys at the front door, especially if they are visible through a window.
- Install after-market tracking devices on vehicles such as an Air Tag.
- Have proper lighting and/or cameras installed.
- Report suspicious activity (thieves often scout homes and vehicles in advance).
For more information and tips, visit https://www.haltonpolice.ca/en/staying-safe/auto-theft.aspx.
Anyone with information regarding these investigations is asked to contact the Oakville Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4777 ext. 2216 or for Burlington at 905-825-4777 ext. 2316 or for Milton/ Halton Hills at 905-825-4777 ext. 2416.
