Investigators with the York Regional Police Special Enforcement Team (SET), in cooperation with the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) Resource Protection Unit, have laid more than 300 charges as part of an ongoing investigation into retail thefts committed across Ontario, including York Region.
In January 2024, SET and the LCBO began a joint investigation of a suspect responsible for 45 thefts, worth more than $88,000. On March 25, 2024, the suspect was located in the parking lot of an apartment complex in the City of Mississauga. During the arrest, the suspect assaulted an officer and attempted to flee in a motor vehicle. The vehicle was contained and the suspect, along with two co-accused, were taken into custody.
“We combine investigative expertise with leading-edge technology, and data and analytics, to take proactive, collaborative and substantive actions to address criminal activity.” said Marty Power, Senior Director of LCBO’s Resource Protection team. “Working collaboratively with York Regional Police has resulted in a successful conclusion to this investigation, which will help create a safer environment for our employees and customers.”
A video, which can viewed here https://youtu.be/VlmD7lKCVt8 , shows an example of an LCBO theft. York Regional Police works closely with the LCBO Resource Protection Unit to identify and charge suspects, even after the offence has taken place.
Investigators believe there are other retail stores that may have been targeted by this suspect and are asking any additional victims to please contact police.
Charged: - Matthew DOUCETTE,40, of Mississauga
| Charges: - Robbery
- Theft x45
- Breach of Release Order x184
- Fail to Comply with Probation x46
- Assault Police with Intent to Resist Arrest
- Mischief to Property
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime
- Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle
- Operating a Motor Vehicle while Prohibited x2
|
- Sarah MCBRIDE, 42, No Fixed Address
| - Theft x4
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime x3
- Fail to Attend Court x2
|
- Bruce DOUCETTE, 63, No Fixed Address
| - Theft x5
- Breach of Release Order x5
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime
- Driving While Under Suspension
|
DOUCETTE was on conditions to not to attend any LCBO in Ontario at the time of these offences.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Organized Crime Enforcement Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7817, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.
Visit our Community Safety Data Portal for complete stats and crime data within York Region.
Crime prevention is our shared responsibility. Learn more about Operation Streetview.
Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
24-801554
May 9, 2024
