Peterborough Police are investigating a series of recent vehicle thefts and attempted thefts, with Toyota trucks and SUVs being the main targets.
Several incidents have occurred over the past two weeks, including the theft of three Toyotas on March 26. One was later recovered in Quebec, another in Peel Region, while the third remains missing.
On Sunday, an officer on patrol spotted suspicious activity at a Toyota dealership on Lansdowne Street. When the officer approached, a black BMW in the lot drove directly at the police cruiser, forcing the officer to swerve. The BMW fled eastbound at a high speed. Damage to three vehicles on the lot was discovered, including broken windows and ripped-out wiring.
Two days later, a Toyota Tundra was stolen from a driveway in the Denure Drive and Keppler Crescent area around 2:30am.
Police say Toyota vehicles, especially trucks and larger SUVs, are being deliberately targeted. They’re asking owners to take extra precautions, such as parking in garages, using theft deterrent devices, and ensuring built-in tracking systems are activated.
With these thefts raising concerns, Chief Stuart Betts highlighted the role of technology in addressing these crimes, saying “The existing CCTV cameras in the downtown core have provided a terrific return on investment, and with many of these crimes linked to organized crime, this type of technology will help officers identify vehicles coming and going from our city for the purposes of engaging in unlawful activities as they work on solving these crimes.”
Police are urging vehicle owners to take precautions, such as parking in garages, using theft deterrent devices, and ensuring built-in tracking systems are activated. They also encourage residents to report any suspicious activity in their neighbourhood to Peterborough Police at 705-876-1122 ext. 225, or dial 9-1-1 if the situation is an emergency or crime in progress.
(Written by: Scott Arnold)
