Ontario Proposes Lengthy Driving Suspensions, Licences Ban for Convicted Auto Thieves

Ontario is cracking down on violent auto theft by introducing driver’s licence suspensions ranging from 10 years to a lifetime ban. The government will introduce legislation to suspend the drivers licences of convicted car thieves when “aggravating factors” such as threats, violence, or the use of force or a weapon are involved, provincial Transportation Minister Prabmeet Sarkaria announced May 14. Suspensions would also be given to car thieves connected to organized crime. If the legislation passes, first-time offenders will be given a 10-year licence suspension while a second conviction will come with a 15-year suspension. Those convicted for a third time will receive a “lifetime licence suspension,” Mr. Sarkaria said at a press conference....