Teenager Charged in Porsche Theft and Hit-and-Run in Mississauga, Linked to Toronto Auto Thefts

An 18-year-old woman, Sarah Badshaw, is now facing serious charges in connection with an auto theft incident that left a vehicle owner injured in Mississauga. The young Brampton resident was arrested while still in custody of Peel Regional Police and was charged on Monday with multiple offenses related to two auto theft incidents in Toronto.

The police investigation reveals that Badshaw was involved in two separate theft attempts over a five-day period earlier this month. The first incident occurred on September 11 near Kipling Avenue and Rathburn Road, where a male and female pair met the victim under the pretense of purchasing his vehicle. After gaining access to the interior of the 2021 black BMW X6, the duo fled the scene with the car, which remains unaccounted for.

The second theft attempt happened on September 16 at a parking lot near Dufferin Street and Yorkdale Road. Here, Badshaw exhibited suspicious behavior, appearing very nervous, prompting the victim to terminate the meeting and leave the area without further incident. This change in demeanor raised alarms for the victim, demonstrating the increasing risk associated with private vehicle sales.

The shocking turn of events gained widespread attention after a video surfaced, capturing the theft of a Porsche from a driveway on September 6. In this alarming footage, Badshaw is seen knocking on the homeowner’s door, claiming to be waiting for her father and expressing interest in viewing the Porsche advertised on Auto Trader. As the video progresses, the suspect can be seen in the driver’s seat of the Porsche. In a swift move, she accelerates the vehicle, knocking down the owner as she fled the scene. This incident highlights the growing trend of fraudulent vehicle thefts that prey on unsuspecting sellers.

Constable Tyler Bell of Peel Regional Police commented on the situation, saying, “There is a saying in policing that I am sure we have all heard before – you can’t outrun the chopper. But in Sarah’s case, you can’t outrun the share button.” The viral nature of the video led to an overwhelming number of tips from the public, ultimately resulting in her turning herself in to the police on September 19.

Badshaw now faces several charges including theft of a motor vehicle, attempt to commit an indictable offense, and possession of property obtained by crime regarding the Toronto incidents. She had previously been charged with four offenses related to the Mississauga incident. Law enforcement continues to search for a second suspect believed to be involved in the two theft attempts.

This series of events serves as a stark reminder of the risks associated with online vehicle sales. Potential buyers and sellers are urged to exercise caution and conduct transactions in secure, public spaces to prevent falling victim to similar scams. The community remains on high alert, and police are actively working to ensure the safety of residents during private vehicle sales.