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High-end Lexus, Toyota theft ring busted, three Montreal men charged

Over 100 Lexus and Toyota trucks and SUVs stolen from the region this year

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Mar 18, 2021  •  May 20, 2021  •  1 minute read  •  Join the conversation
Ottawa Police Service
Ottawa Police Service Photo by Tony Caldwell /Postmedia

Ottawa police have busted a theft ring that targeted high-end Toyota and Lexus vehicles.

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The criminal investigation units have charged three Montreal men in connection with a series of vehicle thefts in February and March. Most of the vehicles were stolen during the night from owners’ driveways.

Police said 20 Toyota and Lexus SUVs and trucks have been recovered, including four at the Port of Montreal where it appears they were destined for export.

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The thefts were committed, police said, with the help of sophisticated technology that allowed those involved to program new keys for the targeted vehicles.

Three Montreal men, all in their 20s, face a raft of charges, including motor vehicle theft, possession of break-in instruments, mischief and mischief to data.

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The investigation is ongoing, police said, and further charges may be laid.

The Ottawa Police Service has received more than 100 reports of stolen Lexus and Toyota trucks and SUVs this year, and another 200 last year. Earlier this year, in one night alone, five luxury vehicles were taken from the Bridlewood area of Kanata.

Investigators have warned owners to consider protecting their vehicles with car alarms, steering wheel locks or GPS tracking devices.

Lexus and Toyota truck and SUV owners have also been warned to watch out for fresh damage to the driver’s side door handle – a sign that the vehicle may have been targeted by thieves. Ottawa police asked people to report such damage and to report anyone seen taking photos of their dashboard Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

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