Stolen Vehicle Registration Schemes in Ontario: New Stiff Penalties Proposed

December 24, 2024, Kitchener, Ontario

Posted by: Robert Deutschmann, Personal Injury Lawyer

Ontario is taking a tough stance against auto theft with proposed legislation that would impose severe penalties on convicted car thieves. As vehicle thefts and carjackings continue to rise across the province, these new measures aim to deter potential criminals and make it more difficult for repeat offenders to strike again. Under the proposed laws, individuals convicted of motor vehicle theft under the Criminal Code would face significant driver's licence suspensions:

• First offense: 10-year licence suspension
• Second offense: 15-year licence suspension
• Third offense: Lifetime licence suspension

These suspensions would apply in cases where aggravating factors were present during the crime, such as violence, use of weapons, threats, or financial motives. The crackdown comes as Ontario grapples with alarming auto theft statistics. A vehicle is stolen every 14 minutes in the province, and Toronto has seen a 78% increase in violent carjackings since 2021. Many of these thefts are linked to organized crime rings that exploit vulnerabilities in vehicle registration systems. Common stolen vehicle registration schemes include:

• VIN cloning: Thieves copy legitimate vehicle identification numbers onto stolen cars
• Title washing: Altering vehicle titles to conceal theft or damage history
• Fraudulent registration: Using fake documents to register stolen vehicles

To combat these schemes, the Ontario government is investing in enhanced resources for police services to investigate and disrupt auto theft operations. Additionally, the province is working to strengthen its vehicle registration system to make it more resistant to fraud. For victims of auto theft, the impacts can be devastating - both financially and emotionally. Beyond the loss of property, many experience ongoing trauma, especially in violent carjacking incidents. The proposed penalties aim to deliver justice for victims while sending a clear message that auto theft will not be tolerated.

Critics argue the harsh licence suspensions may be excessive, particularly for first-time offenders. However, supporters maintain that strong deterrents are necessary given the organized and often violent nature of many vehicle thefts today.

As the legislation moves through the approval process, all drivers are encouraged to take precautions to protect their vehicles:

• Never leave a running vehicle unattended
• Always lock doors and close windows
• Park in well-lit, high-traffic areas when possible
• Consider anti-theft devices like steering wheel locks
• Be aware of your surroundings, especially when approaching your vehicle

By combining tougher penalties, improved enforcement, and increased public awareness, Ontario hopes to reverse the troubling trend of rising auto thefts. For those impacted by vehicle theft or facing related charges, consulting with an experienced personal injury or criminal defense lawyer is crucial to understand your rights and options under the evolving legal landscape.The proposed legislation represents a significant shift in how Ontario approaches auto theft prevention and prosecution. As the province continues to grapple with this persistent issue, staying informed about new laws and penalties will be essential for all vehicle owners and operators.

If you are injured in any collision involving a stolen vehicle remember that you have protection under the law. Contact one of our experienced personal injury lawyers immediately and don't face your situation alone.

About Deutschmann Law

Deutschmann Law serves South-Western Ontario with offices in Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, Woodstock, Brantford, Stratford and Ayr. The law practice of Robert Deutschmann focuses almost exclusively in personal injury and disability insurance matters. For more information, please visit www.deutschmannlaw.com or call us at 1-519-742-7774.

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