Private Patrols Curb Car Thefts in Toronto Neighbourhoods

Amidst rising car thefts in Toronto, some neighbourhoods are turning to private security for protection. In response to a spate of break-ins where thieves enter homes to steal car keys, 57 households collaborated to hire Blackbird Security for nightly patrols from 10 p.m. to 7 a.m.

In an interview with CTV News, Blackbird Security’s CEO Ranko Vukovic shared insights on their impact. "We went from nightly occurrences to zero occurrences in the last two months," Vukovic stated. He explained that thieves, who often research their targets in advance, are deterred by the visible presence of security patrols.

With auto thefts climbing to 11,767 this year, more than double the number in 2019, the need for effective security measures has never been greater. Blackbird Security's efforts have provided much-needed peace of mind for residents who have faced terrifying break-ins, as captured in several disturbing videos.

While some residents express concerns about relying on private security, others, like Richard from Rosedale, emphasize the importance of safety for their families. As the city grapples with this issue, Blackbird Security’s patrols offer a proactive solution, costing each household $180 a month.