Ruby Sahota, Member of Parliament for Brampton North and Minister, joined federal and local leaders to announce a significant step forward in the fight against auto theft, unveiling new funding for Canadian innovations in anti-theft protection. The event, held in Brampton—a city hard-hit by vehicle theft—underscored the Liberal government’s ongoing commitment to the National Action Plan on Combatting Auto Theft, a comprehensive strategy that has already slashed auto theft rates by 20% in 2024.
“Auto theft isn’t just a property crime—it’s a threat to our safety and a lifeline for organized crime,” said MP Sahota. “While we’ve made real progress, with thefts down 20% last year, there’s no room for complacency. That’s why we’re doubling down with tougher laws, smarter enforcement, and now, cutting-edge technology to keep our communities safe.”
The National Action Plan, launched following a 2024 national summit on auto theft, ramps up enforcement, bolsters vehicle security, and targets the profits fueling criminal networks. Sahota highlighted key measures already in place:
- Tougher Laws: Bill C-48, passed in 2024, introduced stricter bail conditions and a reverse onus for repeat violent offenders, domestic abusers, and gun crime perpetrators. The Criminal Code was also amended to impose harsher penalties for violent carjackings and auto thefts tied to organized crime, including a new offense targeting gangs exploiting youth as pawns.
- Fighting Guns and Gangs: A $605 million investment has empowered law enforcement to tackle guns and gang activity, making streets safer by disrupting the networks behind auto theft.
- Gun Control: New laws have removed assault-style firearms from communities, reducing the tools of violence often linked to carjackings.
- Port and Rail Security: Investments in scanners and additional staff at rail yards and ports are intercepting stolen vehicles before they leave Canadian soil.
- North American Collaboration: The newly launched North American Joint Strike Force unites Canada, the U.S., and Mexico to dismantle transnational organized crime, a major driver of auto theft.
Today’s announcement builds on this foundation with fresh funding for Canadian projects developing anti-theft innovations. While specific project details and funding amounts remain under wraps pending final agreements, Sahota emphasized that these initiatives will enhance vehicle security systems, improve tracking technologies, and outsmart thieves. “From advanced immobilizers to real-time detection, we’re backing Canadian ingenuity to stay ahead of the criminals,” she said.
The event saw Sahota joined by fellow GTA MPs and law enforcement officials, reflecting a collaborative push across government levels and industry partners. “This isn’t a problem we can solve alone,” Sahota noted. “It takes all of us—federal, provincial, municipal, and the auto sector—working as a team.”
Taking aim at Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, Sahota dismissed his approach as inadequate. “Three-word slogans won’t cut it when families are losing their cars and communities are under siege,” she said. “Our government’s delivering serious solutions—tough laws, real investments, and now, innovation—to tackle this head-on.”
The 20% drop in auto thefts in 2024, cited by Sahota and echoed in posts on X from Liberal MPs like James Maloney, signals progress. Yet, with hotspots like the GTA still grappling with violent carjackings and organized crime, today’s funding aims to sustain the momentum. “Together, we’re turning the tide,” Sahota concluded. “Let’s keep pushing for safer communities and stronger action against auto theft.”
The announcement comes as the Liberal Party rallies behind Mark Carney’s leadership bid, with Sahota’s presence reinforcing the party’s focus on practical, results-driven governance. As Canadians await further details on the funded projects, the message from Brampton is clear: the fight against auto theft is far from over—and the Liberals are all in.