Police warn the public after tracking devices found on vehicles

Barrie police are warning the public following the discovery of GPS tracking devices in the RVH parking lot.

Barrie police are warning the public after tracking devices were discovered on two vehicles in the Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre (RVH) parking lot.

Kristain Boehler, a community safety and well being officer with Barrie police, said residents discovered the trackers after they were notified from their cell phones.

“Through their cell phone, they had been alerted that a tracking device was very close by while they were in the operating vehicles,” said Boehler. “Under further inspection, they located some tracking devices.”

CTV News spoke with multiple automotive shops with some shops saying people do periodically bring their cars in to be checked for trackers.

Automotive shops like Active Green+ Ross said although they don’t find a lot of tracking devices on vehicles in for service, they would not be hard to hide on your vehicle.

“Around maybe the wheel wells, front or rear of the vehicle,” said Steve Mader, auto tech with Active Green + Ross. “Especially the rear, because the spare tire area is all metal and as much plastic back there for something magnetic-based.”

According to police, thieves are on the lookout for newer cars and vehicles that could be parked for an extended period and are placing the trackers under the hood near the windshield.

“For the two vehicles, both are Toyotas,” said Boehler. “In December, we had 20-plus vehicles stolen so it seems to be a newer vehicle that is being targeted.”

Residents are being asked to have an eye while police suggest storing vehicles inside of garages, if not using them for an extended period of time. Police say if people are out and about, to park closer to the store.

Although the incidents happened in the RVH parking lot, police say the tracking devices are being seen throughout the city and province.

RVH tells CTV News that the safety and security of patients, visitors and staff are the hospital’s primary concern. The health centre has communicated with staff and is working closely with Barrie Police Service following reports of GPS tracking devices found on vehicles.

Police have indicated this activity is not targeting individuals or the health centre itself, but rather certain types of vehicles. As a precaution, RVH has implemented additional security measures, including increased patrols and enhanced monitoring.

If you find a tracking device on your vehicle, police advise you call the non-emergency hotline.