EXPANDED REGINA AUTO THEFT STRATEGY

Phase Two of the Regina Auto Theft Strategy was announced today.

This second phase expands the successful auto theft strategy to target adult offenders aged 18 to 22 in addition to young offenders who were the focus of Phase One. Phase Two pilots the use of electronic monitoring devices with youth, increases the use of alternative measures for first-time auto theft offenders, and expands education and prevention for at-risk youth.

"In Phase One of the Regina Auto Theft Strategy we have seen that taking a targeted, get-tough approach that includes tighter supervision, better co-ordination and more effective rehabilitation has a significant impact," Corrections and Public Safety Minister Andrew Thomson said. "Since the strategy was implemented in February 2002, the number of auto thefts in Regina has been reduced by 37 per cent, resulting in the lowest rate of auto theft since 1995.

"Our experience has shown that partnerships and integration of services yield significant results," Justice Minister Eric Cline said. "Partnerships provide an opportunity to develop targeted approaches to unique problems. We are targeting a reduction of a further 10 per cent in Regina auto thefts in 2003."

"Claims costs in Regina for auto theft fell by $1.6 million between 2001 and 2002," President of SGI Larry Fogg said. "That's largely attributable to the success of Phase One of the Strategy. SGI is pleased to partner in Phase Two and will provide funding to expand alternative measures and pilot an electronic monitoring program."

"Phase One targeted young offenders, Phase Two allows us to expand this strategy to young adults," Deputy Police Chief Clive Weighill said. "Today's announcement is a welcome step forward to respond to emerging issues and we thank our primary partners for their continued commitment to reducing auto theft."

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For More Information, Contact:

Bill Derby Corrections and Public Safety Regina Phone: (306)787-5883 Email: bderby@justice.gov.sk.ca