Auto thefts in Canada have started to decline after reaching historic highs in 2023, as a countrywide crackdown shows results. The National Action Plan on Combatting Auto Theft has led to a nearly 20 per cent decrease in 2024, according to the latest report by the Équité Association. But while national numbers improve, Durham Region remains a hot spot for vehicle theft, particularly in Whitby’s Brooklin area.
“Every car that we can prevent from being stolen helps keep money out of the hands of organized crime and drug traffickers,” said Minister of Transport and Internal Trade Anita Anand in a statement. “Our approach is already having a positive impact.”
In Durham Region, overall thefts have slightly declined, with 101 stolen vehicles in January 2025, down from 104 in January 2024, according to the Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS). However, Whitby, specifically the Brooklin area, has seen a concerning rise in thefts, particularly with Toyotas and pickup trucks. A DRPS spokesperson said that while the overall trend is encouraging, targeted thefts in high-risk areas require heightened vigilance.
Halton Police Chief Stephen Tanner said that the reason auto theft is so prevalent in the GTA is due to the high number of luxury vehicles, but even if you don’t own a high-end vehicle, you should still take precautions.
Meanwhile, law enforcement’s strategy includes targeted patrols and community awareness campaigns. They encourage residents to park in well-lit areas, lock vehicles and keep valuables out of sight.
Within this broader context, Durham College has implemented strategies to deter auto theft on campus. Security measures include gated parking lots, extensive CCTV coverage, 24/7 foot and vehicle patrols and co-ordinated efforts with Facilities Management to maintain adequate lighting.
Tom Lynch, a representative from the Office of Campus Safety (OCS), said that their goal is to create an environment where criminal activity is deterred before it starts. He noted that existing security measures have contributed to a strong record of prevention, and that “the OCS is not aware of any thefts of auto from either North Campus or Whitby campus in the past 10-plus years.”
Students are also encouraged to play an active role in safeguarding their vehicles by parking in commonly used and well-lit areas whenever possible.
Should an incident occur, the OCS would refer the report to the DRPS and conduct an internal review, including CCTV footage analysis. Any findings would be handed over to law enforcement to support investigations.
While the downward trend in auto thefts is promising, local officials stress that vigilance remains crucial. Through ongoing collaboration and community engagement, Durham Region is working to stay ahead of emerging threats.
“Auto theft is a complex issue that requires everybody to come to the table with solutions,” said Public Safety, Democratic Institutions and Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Dominic LeBlanc in a statement last year. “Our government, as well as our national law enforcement agencies, will use all tools at their disposal to crack down on auto theft.”
For Durham College students and staff, the message is clear: awareness and caution are key. By combining institutional security measures with individual vigilance, the campus community can maintain its strong record of prevention.
Durham College student Ellyssa Sunday said that as much as she drives a “fish bowl” where anyone can see into her car, she’s never parked her car at college worried that someone would break in. “I just take precautions,” she said. “Just in case.”