Montreal police today dismantled a major car theft network by handcuffing nine suspects during searches which also resulted in the recovery of around twenty vehicles worth more than $1.7 million.
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“It’s a big blow that sends a clear message: criminals who steal cars will be arrested,” rejoiced Montreal Mayor Valérie Plante during an afternoon press briefing.
“Photo courtesy of the SPVM”
The Montreal City Police Service (SPVM) struck in the early morning. The bloodhounds landed in nine locations in Montreal, Mascouche, Terrebonne, Saint-Esprit, Saint-Félix-de-Valois, Sainte-Julienne and Saint-Lin-Laurentides in order to carry out searches.
“Photo courtesy of the SPVM”
Destined for abroad
Nine suspects were nabbed and 21 stolen vehicles were recovered by the authorities, worth more than $1.7 million. In total, however, the network allegedly stole 55.
“The organization operated mainly in Montreal and its surrounding areas and targeted luxury vehicles such as SUVs as well as recently manufactured vans,” the SPVM said in a press release. The cars were intended for resale abroad.
The network was completely autonomous: “Its members were themselves involved in all the steps leading to the export of stolen vehicles, from targeting to theft through storage,” we explain.
The vehicles were stolen from different locations, including a rental company and public parking lots. Six recovered vehicles had been stolen from the Montreal Airport.
“Photo courtesy of the SPVM”
Six accused
Six of the suspects appeared in the afternoon at the Montreal courthouse. They are Anthony Bernier-Dallaire, 26 years old, Sébastien Richer, 33 years old, Gilles Michaud, 63 years old, Sébastien Parent-Germain, 33 years old, and Yannik Turcotte, 26 years old.
They face charges of theft, break and enter and motor vehicle trafficking, among other things. The others are expected to appear tomorrow.
This operation comes as vehicle thefts reach peaks, with more than 90,000 cars stolen in the country last year. After the raid, Ottawa also announced yesterday an additional $15 million to support the work of law enforcement in its fight against the scourge.
– With the collaboration of Michaël Nguyen
“Photo courtesy of the SPVM”
Summary of seizures
– 2 vehicles (plus the 19 recovered during the investigation, for a total of 21)
– 2 loaded firearms (handguns)
– More than $40,000 in cash
– Different tools used for vehicle theft
– One ounce of cocaine and 8 pounds of marijuana
Source: City of Montreal police service