Police Team Up with Équité Association to Combat Auto Theft

The Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS), in collaboration with Équité Association, a not-for-profit working to eradicate insurance crime on behalf of the Canadian property and casualty insurance industry, are joining forces to combat and prevent auto thefts across the Region of Durham, through Project Attire.   This initiative follows a recent announcement of a $900,000 investment by the Ontario government into the project. 

Équité will play a crucial role in this partnership. Through data and analytics, vehicle identification and coordinated investigations, the collaboration aims to eradicate insurance fraud and auto theft. To mitigate the risk of becoming a victim of auto theft, Équité recommends using a layered approach including simple steps like keeping doors locked, installing visible or audible anti-theft devices, using vehicle immobilizers, and investing in tracking systems.

To address the issue of stolen vehicles and their recovery within Durham, the DRPS will launch a new dedicated Auto Theft Unit.  Project Attire will address auto theft investigations and recovery. Vehicles stolen throughout our region have a substantial impact on the livelihood of our residents. Individuals rely on their vehicle to get their children to school, to get themselves to work and to support their day-to-day lives.

Bryan Gast, VP, Investigative Services, Équité Association

“Auto theft has reached crisis levels in this country. Last year, auto theft in Canada cost more than $1.2 billion dollars. In Ontario alone, it was over $700 million dollars. This problem cannot be remedied in isolation; it requires this kind of collaborative approach through public and private partnerships to ultimately combat this crime. We look forward to partnering with the Durham Regional Police Service on Project Attire as we work together to protect the people of Ontario.”

Deputy Chief Dean Bertrim, Durham Regional Police Service

“This year alone we have seen over 1500 vehicles stolen within Durham Region and this number continues to rise. This collaborative effort is just one of the ways our service is working to prevent auto theft and ensure our residents are free to navigate their daily lives, without worry, knowing that we are actively working to secure their vehicles and enhance community safety.”

Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca and tipsters may be eligible for a $2,000 cash reward.