Toronto police are investigating a new wave of vandalism targeting automated speed enforcement cameras, as two additional units were found cut down overnight. The latest incidents bring the total number of vandalized cameras in recent weeks to at least six, prompting renewed scrutiny of the city’s traffic enforcement strategy and drawing sharp criticism from Ontario Premier Doug Ford. The damaged cameras were discovered early Tuesday at several locations, including Lake Shore Boulevard East and Woodbine Avenue, O’Connor Drive and Coxwell Avenue, Lake Shore and Coxwell, and Bayview Avenue and Post Road.
All locations are designated Community Safety Zones, typically near schools, parks, and hospitals, where automated speed cameras are deployed to deter dangerous driving. The City of Toronto confirmed the incidents and is cooperating with Toronto Police Service, which has launched an investigation into the destruction of public property. One of the most frequently targeted devices, a camera installed on Parkside Drive near High Park, has now been cut down seven times since November 2024.
That location was the site of a fatal collision in 2021 and has since become one of the most active enforcement points in the city. According to city data, the camera issued more than 68,000 speeding tickets since its installation and recorded speeds of up to 154 kilometers per hour, nearly four times the posted speed limit. Ontario Premier Doug Ford responded to the developments by calling on municipalities to dismantle speed cameras entirely, describing the program as a “tax grab.”
Toronto police launch probe after speed cameras vandalized
Speaking to reporters Tuesday, Ford said he believes the cameras are primarily used to generate revenue rather than enhance public safety. His comments follow earlier criticisms made in May when the Premier raised concerns about the fairness of automated ticketing and the clarity of signage in areas where the devices are deployed. The City of Toronto has not issued a formal response to Ford’s remarks but reaffirmed its commitment to automated enforcement in Community Safety Zones.
Officials noted that the ASE program is part of the Vision Zero Road Safety Plan, aimed at eliminating traffic-related fatalities and serious injuries. The city currently operates 75 mobile speed cameras across Toronto and publishes monthly data on tickets issued and camera locations. Toronto police said they are actively reviewing surveillance footage and other evidence from the affected sites. No arrests have been made, and authorities have not released any suspect information.
Municipal response remains firm despite provincial critique
Damaging or destroying public property, including speed cameras, is a criminal offense and can lead to charges under the Criminal Code of Canada. The latest acts of vandalism have raised questions about the durability and operational security of the city’s automated enforcement infrastructure. According to the City of Toronto, each camera unit costs between CAD 50,000 and CAD 80,000 to purchase and install. Repairs and replacements following vandalism add further strain to municipal budgets.
Despite the ongoing incidents, Toronto’s traffic enforcement program remains in place, and officials confirmed that replacement cameras will be installed where necessary. City data shows that speed cameras have contributed to a reduction in speeding in high-risk areas, with ticket volumes gradually decreasing over time at repeat locations. The investigation into the most recent vandalism is ongoing. Toronto Police Service is urging anyone with information or relevant footage to contact investigators. – By Content Syndication Services.