Border Breach: Toronto Man Accused of Crossing into Michigan on Jet Ski

When most Americans think about border security, their attention usually turns to the southern border with Mexico. Few consider the northern boundary with Canada. But a recent alleged border breach between Ontario and Michigan has officials raising alarms.

A Daring International Crossing by Jet Ski

Authorities say a Toronto man rented a jet ski in Sarnia, Ontario, then used it to illegally cross the U.S. border into Michigan. The watercraft was later recovered on a Michigan shore, but the suspect remains at large.

Officials Call for Stronger Border Patrols

Sarnia Mayor Mike Bradley and other Canadian officials have long urged the federal government to address security gaps. Ontario Premier Doug Ford has also raised concerns, saying the border is short “thousands” of patrol officers.

READ MORE: New Bridge to Canada Set to Open Ahead of Schedule

Earlier this year, Canada launched Operation Deterrence, which deployed hundreds of provincial officers and funded a helicopter to assist Windsor Police with aerial surveillance. Still, Windsor’s harbormaster warned that more resources are urgently needed, especially for waterway enforcement.

Joint Border Security Effort with U.S. Partners

According to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), patrolling the U.S.-Canada border is a joint effort involving federal, provincial, and municipal officials, along with U.S. partners.

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Despite increased resources, recent incidents show ongoing vulnerabilities. In one case, a man tried to escape Michigan on a stolen jet ski headed for Canada. In another, a suspect attempted the crossing by kayak.