TORONTO — The widespread vandalism of speed cameras in Toronto continues, with Toronto Police reporting that around 20 cameras have been destroyed this month alone. The recent incidents include three more cameras being found cut down on Avenue Road and Mount Pleasant Avenue. These devices are strategically placed in safety zones near schools and hospitals across the city.
Last week, 16 cameras were cut or otherwise destroyed in a single night throughout the city. A few days prior, a speed camera on Parkside Drive was cut down for the seventh time this year, highlighting a persistent issue of vandalism. In response to the escalating incidents, city officials have stated they are working with the Toronto Police Service to implement additional security measures for the cameras.
The ongoing destruction comes amid a political debate over the cameras’ purpose. Ontario Premier Doug Ford recently stated that he believes speed cameras are a “cash grab” and announced his intention to remove them. However, Toronto Police Chief Myron Demkiw has argued that the cameras are essential for reducing speeding and making roads safer for the public. The association of police chiefs has also voiced its support for the cameras and called on the Premier to reconsider his position.
