York Regional Police (YRP) is pleased to announce a remarkable 31% decline in auto thefts in 2024. This significant achievement was reached through a combination of investigative efforts of the Auto Cargo Theft Unit (ATCU), data-driven campaigns such as Autoguard 2.0 and strong partnerships with law enforcement agencies.
Throughout 2024, the ATCU has remained committed to curbing auto theft, particularly those occurring in residential driveways. Their unwavering efforts led to the recovery of more than 245 stolen vehicles and the successful disruption of criminal operations responsible for high-volume vehicle thefts across York Region and the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
Two of their major investigative projects, Project Boa and Project Viper, played a pivotal role in this success. Through these initiatives, the ATCU, in collaboration with the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and the Equité Association, dismantled sophisticated international criminal networks targeting high-demand vehicles like the Toyota Tundra, Lexus RX series, and Toyota Highlander.
Thieves employed advanced methods to steal these vehicles, including reprogramming ignition computers to create new keys. The stolen vehicles were then shipped overseas, with shipments routed through the Port of Montreal, heading to buyers in regions such as the Middle East, Europe, and Africa.
Project Viper and Project Boa resulted in a combined recovery of over 140 stolen vehicles and the laying of 228 criminal charges. In the course of these operations, officers executed several search warrants that revealed additional criminal activity, including the seizure of four firearms, illegal drugs, and Canadian currency.
Operation Auto Guard 2.0 – which ran from September to November, 2024 - focused on disrupting organized crime groups who steal vehicles with the intention of shipping them offshore. Building on the success of the initial operation, it once again incorporated a multi-pronged approach that included enforcement, active community engagement and proven crime prevention strategies. It led to the recovery of 15 vehicles worth approximately $487,000, with 17 people facing 127 charges.
The success of these operations was made possible through critical funding and support from the Ontario Government, the Ministry of the Solicitor General and the Criminal Intelligence Service Ontario.
As a result of these combined efforts, York Region continues to be one of the safest communities in Ontario. YRP remains vigilant and our commitment to protecting the public through innovative strategies and partnerships continues to drive down crime rates year after year. YRP would also like to thank the community for their ongoing support in combatting auto theft. Crime prevention is a shared responsibility, where police and the community work together to create safer neighborhoods. By collaborating, exchanging information and fostering trust, both sides play an essential role in preventing crime and ensuring public safety.
Visit our Community Safety Data Portal for complete stats and crime data within York Region. Crime prevention is our shared responsibility. Learn more about Operation Streetview.
Prepared by: Constable Lisa Moskaluk
March 5, 2025
