Thieves take ATMs from 58 businesses across SW Ontario since January 2017: OPP

LONDON, Ont. — Police are asking business owners to evaluate the benefits of having an ATM following numerous thefts of the machines from gas stations, restaurants and convenience stores across southwestern Ontario.

Provincial police say thieves have targeted 58 businesses in the Brant, Waterloo, Hamilton, Owen Sound and Niagara areas since January 2017.

They say the thieves usually hit sometime between midnight and 5 a.m., ramming a stolen vehicle through the front entrance or windows of the building, wrapping a chain around the ATM and ripping it from the business.

OPP say damage to the building ranges from $20,000 to $250,000 and in some cases has left the building structurally unsound.

They say the loss of the ATM averages about $10,000, plus repair costs and loss of revenue while the store is closed. Police say the average profit from an ATM is approximately 20 cents for every $20 dispensed.

OPP are encouraging business owners with an ATM to report any suspicious activity and are asking owners of pickup trucks and SUVs to ensure their vehicles are locked at all times.