Carjackings have more than doubled in Toronto this year, with break and enters for car theft surpassing last year’s total, according to Toronto’s police chief.
Chief Myron Demkiw addressed the Toronto police board, highlighting a concerning escalation in violent car thefts involving weapons. This comes amidst controversy over a police officer’s advice to residents to leave their car fobs at the front door to prevent home invasions.
Revised guidance advises residents to enhance home security measures rather than adopt risky practices. Meanwhile, the surge in carjackings and break-ins poses a significant challenge, with 68 carjackings and 34 break and enter offences for auto theft recorded so far this year.
Vice President Bryan Gast of Équité Association suggests a layered approach to prevention, emphasizing the need for tougher measures by car manufacturers. Despite challenges, the provincial carjacking task force has made significant arrests and recoveries.
Moreover, hate crimes have surged, particularly against Jewish and 2SLGBTQI+ communities. Police remain vigilant, but acknowledge the underreporting of such crimes.