3 men accused in Montreal car theft ring walk free due to court delays

Even though authorities are trying to crack down on car thefts in Montreal, three men accused of operating a luxury car theft ring in the city walked free last month because it took too long for their case to go to trial.

Even though authorities are trying to crack down on car thefts in Montreal, three men accused of operating a luxury car theft ring in the city walked free last month because it took too long for their case to go to trial.

In a ruling handed down by the Court of Quebec, Justice Salvatore Mascia said he "had no choice" but to issue a stay of proceedings against Obeida Borghol, James Rizk and Ali Trad.

The trio was set to go on trial on May 6, 2024, after being charged in 2021 following a month-long investigation by several Montreal police officers.

However, the judge said the time it took for Crown prosecutor to move the case forward through the justice system was unreasonable and violated the accused's Charter right to a speedy trial.

Justice Mascia underlined how "regrettable" his decision was because investigative efforts by Montreal police were wasted.

"Not without concern, car theft has become a scourge throughout the country and particularly in the City of Montreal," he wrote in his Jan. 22 decision.

The ruling comes as the federal government and local police are taking steps to address rising concerns about car theft, particularly in hot spots like Montreal.