Halton police issue warning of auto theft trend in the region

Halton police have issued a warning to the public following the identification of a auto theft trend throughout the region.

Halton police say there has been a spike in thefts where the suspects break into a home and to obtain the keys of high-end vehicles parked in the driveway.

Officers say that the thieves are most often looking for unlocked doors but have at times broken windows or forced doors open in order to enter the homes. Thefts have typically occurred overnight and in the early morning.

Auto thefts are spiking in our region, and many thieves are breaking into homes to take keys. Always lock your residence doors, do not keep keys in close proximity to the door, and do not confront someone during an incident. For more tips, visit: https://t.co/e10Dn6gNkg pic.twitter.com/21dOAr8eGQ

— Halton Police (@HaltonPolice) October 23, 2023

To date, none of the thefts have been violent.

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So far this year, investigators say there have been around 20 incidents reported in Oakville, 10 in Burlington and in the areas of Milton and Halton Hills.

The vehicles commonly targeted are Mercedes and Lexus SUVs, and Cadillac Escalades.

Police are recommending the public take steps to protect themselves from these thefts. These include locking doors, not keeping keys at the front door or where they are visible through the window, installing cameras and tracking devices such as airtags to items often targeted.

Victims of these thefts are reminded to not confront someone breaking into their home and instead call police immediately.

Anyone with information regarding these investigations is asked to contact the Oakville Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4777 ext. 2216 or for Burlington at 905-825-4777 ext. 2316 or for Milton/ Halton Hills at 905-825-4777 ext. 2416.

READ MORE: 2 men charged in Halton auto theft investigation: police