There is a significant level of participation by young offenders, not only in spotting and identifying the vehicles to be stolen but committing the thefts themselves. That puts them at risk. We're seeing that many of them are armed in the greater Toronto area, which puts officers and the public at risk. The penalties are just not a deterrence for these young offenders, who are making a substantial amount of money to engage in this criminal activity. There needs to be greater deterrence.
On February 29th, 2024. See this statement in context.