Auto theft now a separate crime in Canada

Bill S-9, also known as the “Tackling Auto Theft and Property Crime Act” received Royal Assent on November 18, officially passing it into law.

The new legislation:

• Creates a separate offence of “theft of a motor vehicle”, which carries a mandatory prison sentence of 6 months for conviction of a third or subsequent offence when the prosecutor proceeds by indictment;
• Establishes a new offence for altering, destroying or removing a vehicle identification number (VIN);
• Makes it an offence to traffic in property obtained by crime; and,
• Makes it an offence to possess such property for the purpose of trafficking.

Prior to the law, car thieves could be charged with theft over or under $5,000, depending on the value of the vehicle.

The Insurance Bureau of Canada said for the past six years, it has been the leading proponent, along with Canada’s law enforcement community, for comprehensive, tough anti-crime legislation to address the serious problem of auto theft and the involvement of organized crime.

“IBC has worked tirelessly with our partners in law enforcement and with key members of Parliament to advance this important legislation through the House of Commons and the Senate,” said Rick Dubin, IBC’s Vice-President, Investigative Services, in a statement. “Our appreciation goes out to the Honourable Rob Nicholson, MP, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, and to all the MPs and senators who voted to pass this important bill. IBC will continue to work with our partners on issues to further reduce insurance crime.”

The law will take effect at a date to be determined.

See ILSTV’s initial story on this topic here: http://www.ilstv.com/parliament-passes-new-law-to-combat-auto-theft-and-property-crime/

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