Windsor Police Warn of Vehicle Theft Trend
The Windsor Police Service is cautioning the public following a recent surge in thefts from motor vehicles, with perpetrators increasingly targeting ownership and insurance documents. Constable Jamie Fummerton, a Windsor Police Auto Theft Investigator, has highlighted the alarming trend in Windsor and Amherstburg, where incidents involve both vehicle theft and the theft of documents intended for fraudulent purposes.
“We’re seeing a rise in vehicle thefts linked to key fob cloning and relay attacks,” Fummerton stated. “But the thieves are also after the vehicles, documents are being stolen to be copied, cloned, or used to transfer vehicles into different names.”
The police have specifically noted that vehicle owners should not leave original documents in their cars. “People are definitely leaving their original documents in the car. Some people even believe that’s what they’re supposed to do by law, but that’s not really the case,” Constable Fummerton said.
He clarified that the Highway Traffic Act, specifically Regulation 133, allows for the use of electronic documents. “You can use a cellphone, tablet, or electronic device to show your vehicle ownership and insurance documents,” he explained.
Fummerton, speaking with AM800’s The Shift, emphasized the importance of ensuring the validity and visibility of electronic documents. “You need to make sure they’re valid documents, everything is visible, they can be readable, and they haven’t been altered in any way.” He also stated that Section 7 of the Highway Traffic Act allows for paper copies. “So that would be a copy of the original; those are valid as well, as long as they’re visible, readable, and they haven’t been altered in any way.”
Constable Fummerton recommended keeping copies of vital documents in multiple locations: “I would suggest, not only keeping a copy in your car, but also a copy in your wallet, purse, or on your phone. That way, if you do get pulled over and you are questioned, you do have two identical copies to show, which the officer can validate between the two copies.” This strategy helps safeguard against the originals being stolen for criminal activity, and ensures the vehicle owner has access to important documents.
In response to the growing auto theft concerns, the Windsor Police Auto Theft Unit was launched this past March, supported by a provincial grant of $900,000. The unit is staffed with full-time officers dedicated to reducing auto thefts in Windsor and Amherstburg.
Tips for Vehicle Theft Prevention
The Windsor Police Service offers the following recommendations to protect vehicles from theft:
- Lock your vehicle doors, even when leaving it unattended for a short time.
- Park in well-lit areas or garages whenever possible.
- Store key fobs securely, away from the vehicle, or in Faraday bags.
- Use a steering wheel or pedal locking device.
- Consider investing in outdoor security cameras for your home.
For additional information, the Auto Theft Unit can be contacted at [email protected]. To report an auto theft, call 519-258-6111.
