Over the last three months, there have been over 25 warm-up thefts within 23 Division. This represents a significant increase from previous years.

Most of these thefts have occurred while a vehicle's owner is inside their residence. Others have taken place while a car was left running while the owner runs into a store.

PC Mark Zettler, a D23 Neighbourhood Officer, spoke with media outlets regarding these "crimes of opportunity":

"These happen very quick. You know, you can turn your back and this can happen. The perpetrators work either in groups or alone and it seems like they do know that if you walk up and down the street there will be an unoccupied running vehicle"

To help combat these vehicle warm-up thefts, our NCOs have been stepping up proactive patrols in their designated neighbourhoods during target high-crime times. During their patrols, our officers have noticed that several residents are leaving their vehicles running while unattended. They have been taking the time to educate residents in their neighbourhoods of the dangers associated with leaving vehicles unattended to warm up.

Residents need to be careful and never leave their vehicle unattended while it is running.

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If your vehicle is stolen...

1. Report the theft to the police immediately (call 1-416-808-2222 or you local Division).
2. If your car or accessories are stolen, the police will need specific information to identify the car, parts and accessories.

You should record the following:

• Year and Make, Model, Colour(s)
• Licence Number
• Vehicle Identification Number
• Serial numbers of all special equipment
• Special markings - dents, scratches, other damage etc.

The more information you can provide to the police, the greater a chance they have to locate your stolen vehicle.