Peel Regional Police are seeking to implement tactics learned from their counterparts in the United States, particularly from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, to disrupt the shipment of stolen cars out of the country from Mississauga and Brampton.

Deputy Chief Nick Milinovich and Brampton Mayor Patrick Brown recently concluded a two-day tour of the Port of Newark, the busiest commercial port on the eastern seaboard, to observe how it addresses auto-related crimes.

Milinovich highlights that more stolen vehicles are recovered at Newark than at any other U.S. port, underscoring the efficacy of robust anti-auto theft measures. He emphasizes the importance of adopting similar strategies in Canada to safeguard borders against auto theft.

Brown and Milinovich plan to compile their findings from the port visit into a report, which they intend to submit to Public Safety Canada for consideration.

Brown has persistently advocated for enhanced screening measures at major shipping facilities, such as the Port of Montreal, where nearly 600 stolen vehicles were recovered earlier this year. Recent government announcements regarding the implementation of new scanning technology at Brampton’s rail hub partially address these concerns.

The newly proposed National Action Plan on Combatting Auto Theft includes amendments to the Criminal Code to strengthen penalties for auto thefts associated with money laundering and organized crime. Additionally, it outlines plans for improved intelligence sharing among municipal, provincial, and federal authorities.

Brown emphasizes the importance of adding scanners at ports and intermodal hubs to bolster law enforcement efforts, providing essential tools to identify and intercept vehicles destined for export.

Police data indicates a concerning trend, with over 500 auto theft incidents reported in Mississauga and Brampton over the past few weeks, marking the second consecutive month with elevated numbers.