Common Sense Conservatives Will Stop Auto Theft

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 8, 2024 – Barrhead, AB

Dear Editor,

After 8 years of Justin Trudeau, car thefts are up by more than a third since his Liberal
government took office. In Alberta alone, we saw over 20,000 vehicles stolen in 2022. Trucks
have been a big target. Particularly Ford F-150’s and Ram 1500 trucks.

People across our riding have shared with me how they face significant hardship due to auto
theft. A stolen truck or car means losing transportation to and from work, replacing expensive
tools, and lost salary. It can also result in missed doctor appointments and important life events. Auto theft also causes insurance rates to rise, costing everyone more.

Canadians deserve a government that takes real steps to end car theft.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has failed to protect your property and turned federal ports into parking lots for your stolen cars. Car theft has become a “get-rich-quick” scheme for violent criminals and gangs, and hard-working Canadians are paying the price.

Common sense Conservatives have a plan to fix Trudeau’s mess. We will:
• Increase the mandatory minimum penalty from 6 months to 3 years for a third offence
of motor vehicle theft.
• Fire the useless and expensive consultants at CBSA.
• Invest in state-of-the-art x-ray equipment to rapidly scan export containers.
• Hire a special team of CBSA officers to catch stolen cars before they leave our
country.

A Pierre Poilievre government will hit the brakes on car theft, protect your property and bring
home safe streets. It’s just common sense.

Arnold Viersen, MP
Peace River – Westlock