PATNET: Fighting Auto Theft in Newfoundland and Labrador

ST. JOHN'S, April 26, 2016 /CNW/ - The fight against auto insurance fraud is taking a huge step forward today with the launch of the Provincial Auto Theft Network (PATNET) program in Newfoundland and Labrador. 

The two-day PATNET training session in St. John's, which has drawn interest from law enforcement officers from across the province teaches participants new techniques to investigate vehicle-related crime, including how to detect the cloning of vehicle identification numbers, the use of salvage, evidence handling and the components of auto-crime search warrants.

"We are delighted to launch this award-winning program in Newfoundland and Labrador," said Amanda Dean, Vice-President, Atlantic, IBC. "Since PATNET began operating in 2010, it has been an important tool that has successfully helped law enforcement reduce auto theft and fraud across Canada, and it continues to grow."

Insurance fraud is a serious problem that costs Canadians as over $1 billion a year and wastes resources. The insurance industry has done much to fight crime, fraud and abuse in the system, always with a huge amount of support from the law enforcement community. 

While statistics suggest that auto theft has been on the decline over the past decade, in 2014 there was a 1% increase, with 73,964 vehicles being stolen across Canada that year.

"I am pleased to see this important program coming to Newfoundland and Labrador," said the Honourable Andrew Parsons, Minister of Justice and Public Safety. "This training will better prepare our local law enforcement to deal with auto theft and fraud. I thank IBC for their ongoing commitment to this program and continued support of crime-prevention initiatives throughout the province."

"This type of course will be of great assistance to our officers and partners. It will enhance their skills when responding to complaints of insurance fraud and vehicle theft," said Bill Janes, Chief of Police, Royal Newfoundland Constabulary. "The program exemplifies the value of sharing information and partnerships between insurers and the law enforcement community."

For more details on this award-winning program, visit ibc.ca.  

About Insurance Bureau of Canada
Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) is the national industry association representing Canada's private home, auto and business insurers. Its member companies make up 90% of the property and casualty (P&C) insurance market in Canada. For more than 50 years, IBC has worked with governments across the country to help make affordable home, auto and business insurance available for all Canadians. IBC supports the vision of consumers and governments trusting, valuing and supporting the private P&C insurance industry. It champions key issues and helps educate consumers on how best to protect their homes, cars, businesses and properties.

P&C insurance touches the lives of nearly every Canadian and plays a critical role in keeping businesses safe and the Canadian economy strong. It employs more than 120,000 Canadians, pays $8.2 billion in taxes and has a total premium base of $49 billion. For media releases and more information, visit IBC's Media Centre at www.ibc.ca. Follow IBC on Twitter @InsuranceBureau and @IBC_Atlantic or like us on Facebook. If you have a question about home, auto or business insurance, contact IBC's Consumer Information Centre at 1-844-2ask-IBC.

SOURCE Insurance Bureau of Canada

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