Auto Theft Rates Plummet in First Half of 2025, Marking a Significant Shift

Auto Theft Rates Plummet in First Half of 2025, Marking a Significant Shift in Canada's Crime Landscape

A recent report from the Équité Association has revealed a substantial decline in auto theft rates across Canada in the first half of 2025. According to the industry group, focused on insurance fraud and crime, vehicle thefts nationwide have dropped by a remarkable 19.1% compared to the same period in 2024. This downward trend is attributed to the collective efforts of law enforcement agencies, governments, and the public in combatting auto theft.

The report highlights that Ontario and Quebec have seen the most significant declines in auto theft rates, with year-over-year drops of 25.9% and 22.2%, respectively. The two provinces, which are among the most populous in Canada, have historically struggled with high auto theft rates. However, the increased collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the establishment of dedicated police units focusing on vehicle theft have contributed to this notable decrease.

The western provinces have also seen a decline in auto theft rates, with Alberta experiencing a 12.5% drop. Meanwhile, Atlantic Canada has witnessed a more modest decrease of around 9%. Bryan Gast, national vice-president of investigative services at Équité Association, attributes the progress to the joint efforts of various stakeholders, stating that "it's really definitely a collaborative effort."

Despite the progress, Alberta continues to lead the country in auto theft on a per-capita basis, with 4,411 vehicles reported stolen in the first half of 2025. The province's proximity to the Port of Montreal and its large population are contributing factors to its high auto theft rates.

The decline in auto theft rates is corroborated by recent data from Statistics Canada, which reported a 17% annual drop in the rate of police-reported motor vehicle thefts. This marks a significant shift from the 40% increase in auto thefts recorded in 2023.

The federal government's efforts to address the issue, including the convening of a summit in February 2024, have likely contributed to the downward trend. As the collaborative efforts continue, it is hoped that auto theft rates will continue to decline, making Canada's roads safer for drivers and reducing the financial burden on the insurance industry.