York Regional Police

At the Other End of the Radio: A Communicator's Perspective

Fri, 16 Apr 2021 12:15:00 GMT

The following story was written by veteran York Regional Police Communicator Leigh Bonnis, who dispatched officers in Richmond Hill when one of their colleagues was attacked on March 27, 2020.

It is a typical Friday afternoon in March. #2 District is steady. I’m excited about being off early and thinking about enjoying pizza dinner with my family in a few short hours. As I take a bite out of a granola bar, I hear a scream over the radio: “Get on the ground!” I swallow the granola bar without chewing.

Immediately, I identify the radio on the map. It is call sign DP20. Seconds later, he calls and there is an obvious scuffle occurring in the background. I confirm to my supervisor that I have a 10-33 — an officer in need of assistance. I call him back. No response. His GPS hasn’t moved.

From the silence, his yell emerges: “Another unit, hurry up.” I check the map and send 2241 and 2251, the closest units. I have so many questions. How many suspects are there? Is he injured? Is he inside or outside? On the map, the backup units move to his position incredibly slowly, though I know that in reality, they’re moving as fast as they can. I call for radio silence and advise the units to attend in front of 9471 Yonge St. I create a call in the system and remap him when someone yells across the room: “He’s at the Hillcrest Mall.” The call goes in and more units are assigned. I tell my supervisor to open up his radio mic so the officer can say anything over the air without having to use the buttons. I tell him he has an open mic, but still, silence. All of the events above take one minute.

The room around me erupts into organized chaos. 9-1-1 calls start coming in. The information is scary and overwhelming. At the mall, someone on top of the officer, hitting him with a baton. Blood, lots of blood, the suspect going for the officer’s gun. Over the air, I voice the details that matter, knowing that everyone is listening. I know my updates are causing more stress to those responding. I voice hoping the suspect knows we are coming in droves. I am silently begging that the officer hears me. My transmissions are short and abrupt. I try to voice methodically and calmly. I stop for a second and rub my hands together, as I realize they are shaking and I cannot type. The silence on the radio is deafening and I know that everyone listening wants more, but I also know every transmission I make takes away his ability to call me. I need to keep the air for him and only him. The events above take two minutes.

The first backup officer arrives on scene. A co-worker stands behind me and rubs my back. It startles me and I jump. I am so invested in the call that the room around me doesn’t exist. A radio call comes in: “Get paramedics rolling immediately. Get paramedics here now.” I realize how bad it is. Paramedics are already en route, but I update them on the severity of the officer’s injuries. An officer advises that they have one in custody. The patrol sergeant tells all responding officers to slow down. We get the update on the officer who was attacked: He’s been struck with a baton and he’s bleeding severely from his head.

It is minute six and there is still so much to do. I respond to messages. I check on units dispatched to other calls. I read and dispatch calls in the queue. I feel for all the officers assigned to other calls that couldn’t race to assist.

Our team in communications is really a family and we take care of one another. One dispatcher has already taken some of my calls and another has offered to help clear my message board. I didn’t need to ask. It is just done.

The call is 10 minutes old and an ambulance arrives on scene. I think about how many officers must want to join him in the ambulance. I wish I could join him in the ambulance. I am lost in my thoughts when I receive a radio request for an escorted run to Sunnybrook. The trauma centre. It must be bad. The run takes 20 minutes, but it feels like a lifetime. When I hear the officer is being taken into the hospital, I air my last transmission to him: “If you can hear us, you’ve got this.” Is this the last time I will speak to him?

After 53 minutes, I am relieved from the desk and take a drink of water for the first time. I’m so thirsty I could drink a lake. My phone rings and it is the officer’s wife, my co-worker and friend. She tells me she is waiting for an officer to pick her up at home. I tell her to keep me updated and that I love her. I drive home, but I don’t recall the drive.

At home, after 128 minutes, I start to browse through more than 40 text, email and Facebook messages from my co-workers in Communications and out on the road. My boys, 13 and 15, immediately recognize that something is off. They both hug me. I order the pizza I was looking forward to, but I don’t eat. I spend my night messaging all those that reached out to me. I am exhausted. It is 1 a.m. and I try to sleep, but I can’t.

At 8:46 a.m. on Saturday, a heartwarming and almost apologetic text pops up on my phone. It’s the injured officer. His words are kind and comforting and we exchange messages for about 10 minutes. We decide to chat later so he can rest. He is alive. He is OK. He is going to make it.

I take a deep breath. It’s my first in 1,000 minutes.

2018 Annual Report: Running Down a Dream Job

Tue, 23 Jul 2019 17:00:00 GMT

Revamped recruiting event gives women a glimpse into life as a YRP recruit

Driving in a simulator. Pushups. De-escalating a violent situation. Firing a handgun. More pushups. As a police officer, the first week on the job can be a little overwhelming. Unless you've been there, done that.

For the 82 attendees at the 2018 York Regional Police Women's Symposium, that was exactly the case. When members of the Uniform Recruiting Unit began planning its annual female recruitment event last year, they wanted to offer women the unique chance to spend a day in the life of a YRP recruit.

"We wanted to show them our outstanding training facility, to expose them to the recruitment process and to introduce them to women holding every rank as well as from every sector of the organization" said Constable Jennifer Hodgins, who helped organize the event. "These women leave with a better understanding of a career in policing."

For years, the symposium included demonstrations by specialized units. Now, participants are invited to the new state-of-the-art training facility in East Gwillimbury, where they participate in various training exercises, including defensive tactics, driving techniques, firearms, and de-escalation scenarios.

Attendees also participate in mock interviews and network with many exceptional women at YRP— from civilian members to senior command—who sit on a panel to share their knowledge and stories from their policing careers.

"Now it's tailored specifically to the recruiting process," Constable Hodgins said. "And it's paying off."

While hiring classes of police constables, auxiliaries and cadets, recruiters have seen an increase in female candidates, including many who attended the symposium.

"I wish there had been an event like this when I was becoming a police officer," said Hodgins. "It's inspiring."

Read the rest of the 2018 Annual Report

Want to know how else York Regional Police made a difference in its community last year? Read our 2018 Annual Report.

2018 Annual Report: Anatomy of a 9-1-1 Call

Tue, 23 Jul 2019 17:00:00 GMT

After a man is shot and killed at a Vaughan short-term rental home during a house party, Communications quarterbacks the response.

May 12, 03:34:27
9-1-1 call received

Call taker Leigh Bonnis fields the first call to 9-1-1. Shrill screams break the early morning calm and emerge from the headset, piercing the call taker’s ear. They subside for just long enough for Bonnis to hear clearly:

“Someone has been killed.”

03:35:21
Units dispatched

Dispatcher David Slawson sits at the DSP4 desk—he’s been the friendly voice on the radio for officers in #4 District all night long. When he comes over the air this time, his tone is more serious. Slawson calls for any available units to clear lower-priority calls and get to the scene ASAP.

03:35–3:42
More 9-1-1 calls pour in

Ten more calls are placed to 9-1-1. Some come from inside the house, others come from neighbours who watch as panicked partygoers flee from the house. Gunshots ring out in the background. Details are logged so that dispatch can provide pertinent info to responding officers.

03:38:06 – 03:38:35
Units notified

Supervisor Michele Dobson notifies Inspector Thai Truong in the Real-Time Operations Centre to monitor the call— he will serve as commander as the scene unfolds. In the next 30 seconds, Dobson also alerts members in Air Support and the Criminal Investigations Bureau.

03:42
Officers arrive on scene

For six minutes, Slawson has relayed any details he knows to officers racing to the scene. A man in his 20s has been shot multiple times. As the first two officers approach, a car speeds past them, fleeing the scene. Officers pull u-turns to pursue the potential shooter.

03:43:11 Dispatch begins perimeter

Slawson listens intently as Car 4216 comes over the air: The driver has ditched his car on Highway 27 and is running east through a large rural property. Slawson analyzes the terrain and a map of the area and assigns officers to points on a perimeter until a sergeant arrives.

03:46:20 Officers enter the house

Paramedics respond as officers arrive at the house and together, they step inside. Slawson listens as officers confirm over the air: A man in his 20s lies dead on the floor. There are no other victims in sight.

03:57:50–04:01:10
Officers make an arrest

Supervisor Lindsey O’Quinn rifles through records to find a homeowner’s name. The possible suspect is hiding on his property, surrounded by police. She finds it and urges all residents to stay inside. Four minutes later, with the Air Support Unit circling above, the man is in custody.

04:00:53
Homicide Unit notified

Less than half an hour after a spray of bullets sent 100 people fleeing and left a young man dead, the homicide investigation begins. Sound decision making by members of Communications, as well as remaining calm, ensures a safe and efficient response for 24 units on the ground.

Read the rest of the 2018 Annual Report

Want to know how else York Regional Police made a difference in its community last year? Read our 2018 Annual Report.

2018 Annual Report: To Serve and Savour

Tue, 23 Jul 2019 17:00:00 GMT

An evening supporting veterans, first responders and their families

It was the perfect pairing of philanthropy and food. On September 7, 2018, YRP partnered with Wounded Warriors Canada (WWC) to present the first-ever To Serve and Savour event, where 1,000 guests gathered at the Magna Tent in Aurora.

The evening raised $530,000 for WWC, a charitable organization that provides much-needed mental health support for first responders, veterans and their families. The YRP Peer Support Team was the recipient of $137,000.

“This has been the single largest contribution in the history of Wounded Warriors Canada,” said Scott Maxwell, Executive Director. “(York Regional Police) has set the bar extremely high. You did it. You are the leaders.”

Every To Serve and Savour guest received a culinary passport that guided them to five food stations, featuring dishes from some of Ontario’s most prestigious chefs.

From Canadian striploin sliders to dandelion and kale pizza, the chefs’ creations did not disappoint. The food was paired with fine wine or craft beer.

The event was co-hosted by Joan Kelley Walker, a local philanthropist, model and star of Real Housewives of Toronto and YRP Media Relations Officer Constable Andy Pattenden. The evening featured a dynamic musical lineup, dancing and both a live and silent auction.

The success of the event was made possible through the work of a dedicated organizing committee and 125 volunteers, including 40 new recruits, who generously gave of their time.

To Serve and Savour is just one of the 62 events organized in 2018 by our Special Events Unit, many of which include a fundraising element, making a difference in our community.

Read the rest of the 2018 Annual Report

Want to know how else York Regional Police made a difference in its community last year? Read our 2018 Annual Report.

2018 Annual Report: Drug Dealers Sent Packing

Tue, 23 Jul 2019 17:00:00 GMT

Project Cutter targets street-level drug trafficking in #1 District

The cocaine was pure. A little too pure.

“This was definitely strange for street-level drug deals in Newmarket,” said Staff Sergeant Dave Ecklund, who led a property crime team in the #1 District Criminal Investigations Bureau (CIB).

Investigators also noticed that local drug dealers were becoming increasingly brazen, making daylight drug deals in coffee shops, parking lots and on busy street corners. With the assistance of the community through Crime Stoppers tips, members of CIB teamed up with the Organized Crime Bureau to target street-level drug trafficking, launching Project Cutter in November 2017.

“This project was pretty unique. Normally, investigations go after the big players and organized groups,” said Ecklund. “But with Cutter, we were focusing on the low-level dealers. These are the criminals people in the community see every day.”

Over the next four months, the team utilized undercover operators to walk the streets, visit local bars and complaint areas to identify dealers and gather evidence. The team even expanded the operation into Georgina, with the assistance of #3 District CIB.

“We found that a lot of the dealers were selling drugs to fund their own addictions,” said Ecklund. “In many cases, arresting these individuals helped set them on a path toward recovery by connecting them to addiction services.”

During the course of the project, investigators executed 16 search warrants, made 32 arrests and laid 98 charges, including drug and firearm offences.

In total, Project Cutter took $100,000 in illegal drugs off the street.

“The impact this project had on the community was huge,” said Ecklund.

“When we heard a local drug dealer complain that it was hard to get dope in Newmarket, it was clear we had made a difference.”

2018 Annual Report: Building Bridges with the Chippewas of Georgina Island

Tue, 23 Jul 2019 17:00:00 GMT

Detective Josh McCue gives back to the community where he grew up

To Detective Josh McCue, community engagement doesn’t happen from inside a cruiser.

“As officers, we need to get out there and really interact with people,” he said. “This is especially important when we are trying to build relationships with members of an indigenous community.”

Detective McCue, who works in the #3 District Criminal Investigations Bureau, is a member of the Chippewas of Georgina Island, where he spent part of his childhood. His family always instilled in him the importance of giving back to the community and setting a good example for youth.

“I understand the challenges faced by kids growing up on a reserve,” said Detective McCue. “But I always tell them that these obstacles should never hold them back from accomplishing their goals.”

In his 16-year career with YRP, Detective McCue has served on the frontline and as a member of the Emergency Response Unit. Despite the demands at work and at home, he has always made time to give back to the community.

One of his favourite events of the year is the annual Georgina Island Chief’s Picnic. He has volunteered since its launch in 2002 and currently serves as chair of the organizing committee. He’s also worked closely with the local band council to ensure its representation on the #3 District Community Liaison Committee.

Relationship building has assisted Detective McCue and his team in numerous investigations, especially missing persons. While Georgina Island is under the jurisdiction of the Georgina Island Police, it has developed a strong working relationship with YRP, especially #3 District.

“You always have to acknowledge your own community,” said Detective McCue. “It provides people with representation and builds trust. They don’t see me as a cop, they see me as a member of the community. And they are genuinely proud to see me in a position of trust.”

2018 Annual Report: East Coast Bandits Target Ontario

Tue, 23 Jul 2019 17:00:00 GMT

Police make three arrests and link suspects to interprovincial crime spree

Call it buyer’s remorse.

A small manufacturer’s tag with a bar code, torn loose from a Team Canada hockey bag, helped lead to the arrest of a trio of suspects responsible for a gun store robbery in Whitchurch-Stouffville.

Wearing gloves and masks, the three men broke into a weapons retailer and firing range just before 5 a.m. on January 23. The break-in triggered an alarm, but before police could arrive, the suspects had escaped with 48 handguns.

At the scene, investigators recovered the tag, along with surveillance camera footage that showed the three suspects smashing display cases and stuffing the guns into two Team Canada hockey bags.

“The evidence recovered at the scene was very limited,” said Detective Sergeant Pat Smyth, who oversees the #5 District Criminal Investigations Bureau—Property Crime Section. “These suspects used stolen vehicles, gloves and masks—they didn’t leave investigators much to go on.”

Still, the shred of evidence they did leave behind—the tag—proved invaluable to police.

“Discovering the tag was key,” said Detective Constable Christine Elieff.

Using information encrypted on the tag, investigators were able to track the bag’s origin to a Walmart department store in Burlington.

“It just goes to show, sometimes it’s the smallest things that end up making the biggest impact on the case,” she said.

Meanwhile, one of the getaway vehicles was recovered at a golf course in Markham. Police determined the vehicle was stolen in Georgetown and, through surveillance video, connected the suspects to two additional car thefts, a gas theft and license plate thefts, all in Halton Region.

Investigators also identified a red GMC pickup truck with New Brunswick license plates from the video footage taken from those scenes.

“The mugshots of people associated with the truck matched surveillance camera images of the men from Walmart,” said Detective Jason Hayes, the officer-in-charge of the investigation.

Detective Hayes and his team pored over the Walmart footage, watching as suspects purchased the hockey bags and other articles of clothing they were later seen wearing during each crime.

“Voila,” said Detective Hayes. “Suspects identified.”

Knowing the suspects were from out-of-province, investigators staked out several hotels near the Burlington Walmart. Within hours, they spotted the red pickup and arrested all three suspects.

In just four days, officers had not only identified and arrested the suspects responsible for the Whitchurch-Stouffville robbery, but were also able link the thieves with two firearms retailer robberies in the Maritimes and a rash of thefts and break and enters in Ontario.

“These suspects were on a crime rampage that spanned across three provinces,” Detective Hayes said. “Without a doubt, the community is safer with these guns recovered and these men in custody.”

Read the rest of the 2018 Annual Report

Want to know how else York Regional Police made a difference in its community last year? Read our 2018 Annual Report.

2018 Annual Report: Moka Caf� Homicide

Tue, 23 Jul 2019 17:00:00 GMT

Three years of persistence sends killer to prison for 50 years

One on one with the lead detective

Staring at the phone on August 14, 2015, Detective Kevin McCloskey reflected on the summer that had just passed.

“What summer?” he quipped, three years later. Truth is, for seven-and-ahalf weeks, the homicide investigator and his team had spent nearly every waking minute hunting a killer.

When the phone rang, he learned that the hunt was over. The work, however, had just begun.

“Getting this ready for court was going to be 10 times the work than it was to investigate the case up until arrest,” Detective McCloskey said.

Sixty kilometres away in Barrie, Jason Hay sat on the sweltering hot shoulder of a highway, his hands cuffed behind his back. The 27-year-old was arrested for killing two people at a Vaughan café two months earlier. He had spent his last summer as a free man.

The summer was only three days old on June 24 when Hay, shrouded in a mask and hoodie, rushed into the Moka Café with a semi-automatic weapon and fired 11 shots, hitting four people. Two of those people— 24-year-old patron Christopher De Simone and 47-year-old server Maria Voci—were left dead at the scene.

During his month-long trial in May 2018, the jury never learned that those murders were not the first in which Hay had been involved. In fact, the charges he faced in the café shooting were only the latest on a record that included 58 criminal convictions, stretching back to childhood.

“This offender was easily one of the most violent people I have ever dealt with,” said Detective McCloskey.

The jury also never learned that when Hay’s image was first released to the public—captured on surveillance footage while he cased the Islington Avenue plaza the day before the murders—that it was a correctional officer who recognized him from a stint in Milhaven Institution who identified him to police.

Two guns recovered from the vehicle during the high-risk Highway 400 arrest were also barred from the dialogue in court.

That information would have easily compromised the integrity of the trial. But knowing the trail of victims Hay had left behind served as motivation for members of the Homicide Unit to put forth an airtight case and send the career criminal to prison for life.

“When you’re in court, you experience the emotion and grief of the families of victims,” Detective McCloskey said. “That’s when it resonates with you, the impact of the work police teams do.”

In this case, that work was plenty. Investigators conducted roughly 130 interviews and executed 40 warrants in the three-year span between the slayings and court proceedings.

Those warrants uncovered cellphone tower information that placed Hay at a Burger King in Toronto, calling for a cab hours after the murder. Just minutes earlier, surveillance cameras captured a Nissan Versa pulling into a nearby industrial area.

That stolen car, recovered by police a week later, was the same vehicle Hay drove to the Moka Café the morning of the shooting.

When investigators searched his phone, they also found a picture of Hay taken days before the shooting. He was seen smiling, wearing a Toronto Blue Jays baseball cap.

The cap was the same one he was seen wearing in the plaza’s surveillance footage the day before the murders.

"Ultimately that phone contained a lot of valuable evidence." Said Detective McCloskey.

The lead investigator believes that information gleaned from the phone was one of the greatest influences on the jury, who ultimately found Hay guilty of two counts of FirstDegree Murder and two counts of Attempted Murder on May 28.

After three years, the work of more than 100 officers who contributed to the investigation was finally done. “I could actually feel the stress physically leaving my body,” McCloskey said.

On July 8, Hay became only the sixth murderer in Canadian history to receive consecutive life sentences, putting him in prison for 50 years without chance of parole.

Read the rest of the 2018 Annual Report

Want to know how else York Regional Police made a difference in its community last year? Read our 2018 Annual Report.

2018 Annual Report: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Tue, 23 Jul 2019 17:00:00 GMT

York Regional Police remains committed to promoting inclusivity, celebrating diversity and reflecting the communities we serve. We know that diversity and inclusion are vital in building trust between our officers and our citizens; we also know how important both are in attracting, engaging and retaining productive employees.

Our organization actively recruits in our diverse communities by holding information sessions and advertising in multiple languages. Many of our officers speak languages other than English and they help us connect with our citizens. We hold regular meet-and-greet events for leaders of different communities, inviting them to share a meal and tour our headquarters. Events celebrating Asian Heritage Month, Black History Month and the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination draw thousands of citizens every year.

Within York Regional Police, we support our members’ diversity through five internal support networks (ISNs), including those representing the Afro-Caribbean Canadian and the 2SLGBTQ+ communities as well as women and Christians. ISNs are voluntary support networks designed to help specific, self-identified groups share information and experiences. ISN members also provide mentoring and guidance to help members develop both personally and professionally. The ISNs raise awareness and promote the importance of an inclusive environment for all members.

YRP was also proud to co-chair the development of the Inclusion Charter for York Region, a community initiative that brings together York Regional Police, the Regional Municipality of York, the region’s nine municipalities, hospitals, school boards and other agencies that are committed to creating an inclusive environment across our region.

In partnership with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), representatives from York Regional Police and the Region of York presented the Inclusion Charter for York Region as a model for social cohesion. UNITAR recognized the Inclusion Charter as a leading model that communities around the world can use to become more inclusive.

Want to know how else York Regional Police made a difference in its community last year? Read our 2018 Annual Report.

2018 Annual Report: Community Helps Catch Thornhill Predator

Tue, 23 Jul 2019 17:00:00 GMT

Frontline officer identifies suspect on the street

During any given month, Detective Constable Jamie Kolarsky might have a dozen cases come across her desk in the #2 District Criminal Investigations Bureau — Persons Crime Section. But any case involving child victims quickly gets shuffled to the top of the pile.

“This one stood out to me right away,” she said. “We wanted to close this case to assure the families of these children that they could enjoy their community without the threat of being harassed.”

On February 24, a man in his 20s sat down on a bench next to a young child at the Thornhill Community Centre. The man began asking him personal questions about his family and school, but left before anyone else noticed him.

The following afternoon, only a few blocks away, a man with the same description exposed himself to a 10-year-old girl walking her dog in Markham, near Yonge and John Streets. Minutes later, he exposed himself again to a pair of women near a forested area down the street, before fleeing in a Toyota sedan.

The women were able to read the last three digits of the license plate before the car sped away.

“We noticed a trend of disturbing behaviour and were concerned for the safety of residents in that community,” said Detective Constable Kolarsky.

The trend continued for the third straight day when, on February 26, he exposed himself to another female victim at a cemetery near Yonge and John Streets.

Less than a week later, on March 1, the suspect watched from afar as the child he met at the community centre played basketball after school. When he was approached by a parent, the suspect left without speaking to the victim.

Officers in uniform and in plain clothes increased foot and vehicle patrols in the neighbourhood and investigators finally got their break on March 13, thanks to the work of an observant uniform officer.

When he arrived at an apartment near John Street and Bayview Avenue to take a report from another victim, the officer watched as a Toyota sedan pulled up to a house across the street. The last three digits on the license plate matched the victim’s report from two weeks earlier.

“It was a great relief,” said Detective Constable Kolarsky. “We did increased patrols, but if it wasn't for that diligent officer, we still might be talking to more victims.”

Two days later, Kolarsky and her partners arrested the suspect, a 20-year-old Markham man, while he was walking down the street from the Thornhill Community Centre. He was charged with Criminal Harassment x2, Indecent Act x4 and Exposure to a Person Under Age of 16.

“It was of utmost importance to identify and arrest this suspect,” said Detective Sergeant Heather McVicar. “This was a good example of our detectives working together with frontline officers,” she said.

“As a team, they brought this investigation to a successful conclusion.”

Read the rest of the 2018 Annual Report

Want to know how else York Regional Police made a difference in its community last year? Read our 2018 annual report.

2018 Annual Report: Vaughan Drug Trafficking Ring Dismantled

Tue, 23 Jul 2019 17:00:00 GMT

Investigators take down a cocaine-dealing operation, seizing guns, drugs and cash

When investigators saw guns flying out the second-storey window, they knew they had come to the right place.

“That’s definitely not something we see every day,” said Detective Constable David Strome, whose sharp eye led investigators to a successful firearm and drug bust.

Back in May 2018, Detective Constable Strome and fellow officers from the #4 District Criminal Investigations Bureau were in the area of Woodstream Boulevard and Highway 7 in Vaughan for an unrelated investigation.

He noticed what appeared to be a drug deal taking place and followed the suspect to an industrial unit in the area, where another suspected drug transaction occurred.

“Detective Constable Strome did a great job of not having tunnel vision. He made a heads-up observation, which ultimately led to a successful investigation,” said Detective Dan Moore, who was the officer in charge.

The team learned that the suspect and numerous associates who frequented the industrial unit were linked to other drug-related offences. After a month of evidence gathering, the team secured a search warrant for the industrial unit, which was executed on June 15 with the assistance of the Emergency Response Unit (ERU).

“We thought there could be multiple suspects in the unit, but we had no idea that we’d be arresting 17 people that day,” said Detective Constable Strome. “We ended up filling the cells at four districts.”

When the suspects saw officers approaching the industrial unit, they tossed several handguns out the second-storey window. The arrests were made and the property was cleared safely and efficiently, thanks to the collaboration between investigators, ERU and frontline officers, who helped with prisoner transport.

An additional 10 search warrants were executed on vehicles with the assistance of the Integrated Property Crime Task Force. In total, this investigation led to 17 arrests, 130 charges and the seizure of five firearms, $16,000 in cash and $12,570 in illegal drugs, including cocaine, cannabis, fentanyl and oxycodone.

“It was great teamwork that made this operation a success,” said Detective Moore. “By taking drugs and guns off the street, we’re making our community safer for every resident."

Read the rest of the 2018 Annual Report

Want to know how else York Regional Police made a difference in its community last year? Read our 2018 Annual Report.

2017 Annual Report: Investigators Cash In On Community Assistance

Tue, 10 Jul 2018 16:00:00 GMT

With the assistance of the community, #1 District investigators arrested a man just three days after he robbed an elderly woman inside an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) vestibule in July.

In November, the 35-year-old pleaded guilty to the violent robbery in a Newmarket court.

“I was thrilled that our police service and community banded together, inspired by the strength of this 81-year-old woman,” said Superintendent Mike Slack.

She didn’t go down without a fight. With sunglasses obscuring his face, the attacker followed her into the Aurora bank on July 31, watching as she withdrew $500 in cash from the ATM. Immediately, he reached to swipe the cash from the woman, but she held her ground, clenching the bills in her fist.

The senior told police she fought to keep the man in the vestibule for as long as she could, so his face would be captured by bank security cameras. After the struggle, the man threw the woman to the floor, before making off in broad daylight with all but one $20 bill.

A canvass of businesses near the intersection of Yonge and Wellington Streets turned up video footage of the suspect running westbound from the scene, but did nothing to provide officers with his identity. Armed with surveillance video from the bank, investigators
turned to media partners and members of the community on social media for assistance.

One day after he chose to commit the vicious robbery, the suspect’s face was plastered on television screens across the province via nightly news broadcasts, while millions of social media users watched the video and read the appeal for help.

Help came in droves. Within hours, officers had their man, after receiving several tips from the public.

“It was obvious that the public were engaged in this case and wanted to help police bring it to a successful conclusion,” said Superintendent Slack.

“Their teamwork ensured this man was held accountable for his actions.”

Read the rest of the 2017 Annual Report

Want to know how else York Regional Police made a difference in its community last year? Read our 2017 annual report.

2017 Annual Report: Project Park'N'Fly

Tue, 10 Jul 2018 16:00:00 GMT

On November 15, 2017, our Auto/Cargo Theft Unit got the drop on a chop shop in Toronto.

Investigators executed a search warrant, seizing more than $700,000 in parts from 32 stolen vehicles.

The thieves primarily targeted cars that were parked in GO Station lots across York Region. Three suspects have been arrested, bringing this crime spree to an end.

Read the rest of the 2017 Annual Report

Want to know how else York Regional Police made a difference in its community last year? Read our 2017 annual report.

2017 Annual Report: Cadets 2.0

Tue, 10 Jul 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Inspired by his participation in the re-vamped Student Cadet Program at York Regional Police, #2 District Constable Joshua Shymko knows for sure he made the right career choice.

“The Student Cadet Program cemented my decision to be an officer,” he said. “It was invaluable experience I wouldn’t have been able to get any other way.”

The program is designed to mentor university and college students with an interest in policing, in hopes that they will one day join our ranks. Following an extensive interview process, similar to what one would go through to become an officer, eight cadets are currently working 24-hour weeks at YRP while they complete their post-secondary education.

“It was a great opportunity not only for me, but for YRP,” said Constable Shymko. “It gave me the chance to see policing in a real way from the ground level. It also gave YRP the opportunity to see if I was the right fit for a career in policing.”

Current Student Cadet Abdullah Ahmed knew he wanted to be an officer since the day a YRP officer visited his Grade 6 class. After joining the program in 2017, he has gained skills beyond his university classroom by going on ride-alongs and supporting members of the Criminal Investigations Bureau with their caseloads.

“I get to see all the behind-the-scenes work that goes into an investigation. I keep my eyes and ears open to gain the knowledge and experience I need to become an officer with York Regional Police,” Ahmed said.

Each student cadet is granted a one-year contract and can remain in the program for a longer period of time with a positive review from their supervisor.

Based on feedback from Ahmed’s team, it seems that he is making a significant impact.

“Student Cadet Ahmed has a great attitude and is always ready to roll up his sleeves and assist in any way he can,” said Detective Sergeant Patrick Smyth, who oversees the Criminal Investigation Bureau Property Crime Team in #5 District. “He has become a valuable member of our team, supporting us in the work we do to help keep our community safe.”

Our student cadets work alongside investigators and frontline officers, learning skills that will assist them in a future career in policing. Their duties include taking reports, answering telephone inquiries, assisting officers with cataloguing evidence and background checks, storing property and assisting in investigative video review and statement monitoring. Currently we have student cadets at #1, #2, #4 and #5 Districts.

EARLY 1990s – PRESENT

SERGEANT KELLY BACHOO

The original Student Cadet program ran through the early 1990s and YRP Sergeant Kelly Bachoo joined the organization at the young age of 18. A former media officer who has also worked in Community Services, Bachoo is currently working in the Staff Development Unit.

The rebooted program is once again giving young people a chance to experience policing and is helping us cultivate the next generation of officers.

Interested in becoming a student cadet? We’re looking for applicants who are at least 18 years of age, are registered as a full-time student in an accredited college or university and have completed at least their first year of a police related program.

For full application criteria and more information on the student cadet program, email recruiting@yrp.ca. with cataloguing evidence and background checks, storing property and assisting in investigative video review and statement monitoring.

Read the rest of the 2017 Annual Report

Want to know how else York Regional Police made a difference in its community last year? Read our 2017 annual report.

2017 Annual Report: Cracking Down on South-End Criminals

Tue, 10 Jul 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Whether they are on business, attending hockey tournaments or visiting family, the City of Markham welcomes thousands of travelers to local hotels each year.

However officers noticed a concerning trend in late 2016. While unsuspecting guests settled in for the night, unscrupulous criminals would strike, committing vehicle thefts and mischief in hotel parking lots and surrounding areas.

To curb this pattern of criminality, the #5 District Criminal Investigations Bureau Property Crime Team launched Project Check Out in January 2017. The project team also included frontline officers from both #5 and #2 Districts, who were experiencing a similar crime pattern.

During the three-month initiative, officers increased their presence near hotels in the region’s south end to deter crime and enhance proactive enforcement to catch criminals in the act.

Over the course of the project, the team cracked down on criminals, such as drug dealers, thieves, drunk drivers and johns. The project team also worked closely with the Human Trafficking Unit by identifying sex trade workers who were looking for a way out.

“One evening we conducted a traffic stop on an individual associated with human trafficking. He said that YRP is the reason why he is going to stay out of York Region,” said Detective Constable Meaghan Mitchell. “I took that as a compliment and a sign that our project was doing exactly what we hoped it would.”

In total, the team made 64 arrests and laid 145 Criminal Code/Controlled Drug and Substance Act charges, plus another 138 provincial charges.

These impressive results led to a decreased number of calls for service in hotel areas and a stronger relationship with local business owners. Most importantly, Project Check Out sent a clear message that criminals are not welcome in our community.

Read the rest of the 2017 Annual Report

Want to know how else York Regional Police made a difference in its community last year? Read our 2017 annual report.

2017 Annual Report: School is in Session

Tue, 10 Jul 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Our school resource officers and youth education officers have become welcome faces in elementary and high schools across the region

For our 18 School Resource Officers (SROs) and 10 Youth Education Officers (YEOs), school is always in session. These officers are always on the move, whether engaging with students in classrooms, the hallways, during assemblies or making time for one-on-one discussions.

The SROs serve in the region’s 69 high schools, while the YEOs cover the 292 elementary schools on a rotating basis. Age appropriate programming involving healthy lifestyle choices, cybersafety and respect among peers in elementary school develops into messaging about the importance of clearheaded decision making, the ups and downs of relationships and the dangers of cyberbullying as the students advance through high school.

The role of an SRO and YEO is also dynamic they respond to emergent situations on school grounds, from reports of suspicious people or disputes to acts of aggression between students.

With the evolution of social media, our officers are seeing a dramatic increase in concerns over online interactions, both from the students and their parents. Harmless exchanges sometimes lead to ones that cause students real distress as photos and messages are shared across multiple platforms. Driving home important messages about internet and social media safety is something our officers address with students on a daily basis.

These face-to-face conversations have been invaluable in building relationships with youth in our region. Our presence in schools across our five districts encourages positive interactions between students and police from a young age. It helps show that officers are a regular people, often with children of their own, who care about the community they serve and the people in it.

When students enthusiastically call out the names of our officers in the hallways, reach out for advice or assistance or pay forward a good deed, our SROs and YEOs know they are making a difference.

Every day is a new adventure and a new challenge. While our officers may not know what the day will hold, they can be sure that their work will have a positive impact on the lives of students. And that’s a pretty good reason to come to work every day.

Read the rest of the 2017 Annual Report

Want to know how else York Regional Police made a difference in its community last year? Read our 2017 annual report.

2017 Annual Report: Road Safety

Tue, 10 Jul 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Constable Gino Romita knows that taking dangerous vehicles off our roads requires a little elbow grease.

Along with his colleagues in the Commercial Motor Vehicle Safety Unit, Constable Romita pulled more than 350 trucks off of major roads and into the parking lot at Canada’s Wonderland in Vaughan on April 24 and 25.

Out of the 350, nearly 100 needed to be towed away after being deemed unsafe.

Read the rest of the 2017 Annual Report

Want to know how else York Regional Police made a difference in its community last year? Read our 2017 annual report.

2017 Annual Report: Residents Learn to Lock It or Lose It

Tue, 10 Jul 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Over the summer and fall of 2017, the community of Keswick was hit by a string of overnight thefts from vehicles. While residents were asleep, a group of sticky-handed criminals scoured neighbourhoods for unlocked cars. Working quickly, the thieves would rummage through these vehicles and steal any valuables left inside. They made off with credit cards, cash, electronics, tools and lotto tickets.

From September to November alone, therewere 132 reported vehicle thefts and entries, which exceeded the total reported in all of 2016.

To curb this unwelcome trend, officers in #3 District took action. The Criminal Investigation Bureau Property Crime Team began by working with its crime analyst to establish a pattern and link related occurrences. They learned that the criminals typically struck over the weekend, between the hours of 1 a.m. and 5 a.m.

Working closely with the community, investigators collected hours of video surveillance that helped them identify four suspects. They were charged with Theft and Possession of Stolen Property from more than 50 vehicles.

As the investigation continued, another three individuals were arrested for Possession of Stolen Property, which included a vintage Fender guitar valued at $10,000. This item had been taken from the vehicle of a local musician and eventually ended up at a swap shop in Toronto. Investigators worked with the Toronto Police Service to link the stolen guitar to the suspects.

Frontline officers also took to the streets to deliver an important message to the
community: Lock it or lose it!

In the fall and winter of 2017, officers proactively patrolled residential neighbourhoods at night, checking nearly 1,000 parked cars to make sure they were locked. Crime prevention pamphlets were left on any vehicle found to be open.

Clearly, the efforts of both frontline officers and investigators have paid off. From December 2017 to April 2018, there were no reported thefts from vehicles in the Town of Georgina.

TIP: One of the best ways to prevent theft from your vehicle is to remove all valuables and be sure to lock your doors. Residential video surveillance systems may also deter thieves from attempting to steal from your car, however if a theft does occur, these systems can provide evidence that is useful for investigators to identify suspects.

Read the rest of the 2017 Annual Report

Want to know how else York Regional Police made a difference in its community last year? Read our 2017 annual report.

2017 Annual Report: Richmond Hill House Robbery Gets Busted Up

Tue, 10 Jul 2018 16:00:00 GMT

A family barricaded in a washroom were unharmed after officers in #2 District arrested two armed men who broke into their Richmond Hill residence in September.

Police also recovered two firearms, three batons and two ballistic vests after breaking up the attempted armed robbery.

Just after 5 a.m., police received a call from a man inside the home stating that someone outside was firing a weapon. With officers en route, the man watched on closed-circuit television as two men smashed through the glass door at the rear of his house. Quickly, he collected everyone in the house—including two young children—and locked the family in a washroom upstairs.

When police arrived, they spotted a man through the front door holding a gun and wearing a police-style ballistic vest bearing the letters “S.W.A.T.”. Noticing the officers outside, the man retreated to a room near the back of the house, out of sight.

Upon approaching the rear patio, another group of officers found the shattered glass door and watched as the suspect hid in a sunroom. Quickly, officers entered through the backdoor and arrested the suspect at gunpoint. Immediately, police found another man in the kitchen and placed him under arrest.

“The initial response by frontline officers was essential to putting an end to this incident safely and efficiently,” said Superintendent Heidi Schellhorn. “Even at the end of a long night shift, our officers on uniform patrol were prepared to handle this dynamic call.”

After combing the house, members of the Forensic Identification Unit recovered a Simonov semi-automatic rifle in the sunroom, a loaded magazine for the rifle and a loaded handgun in a garbage can in the kitchen. Investigators also seized collapsible batons, balaclavas and gloves.

“It’s obvious that these men were prepared to inflict harm if someone got in their way during this robbery,” said Superintendent Schellhorn.

“Thankfully, these officers made sure that didn’t happen.”

A 45 year-old man and a 37-year-old man from Toronto were charged with various robbery and firearms-related offences.

Read the rest of the 2017 Annual Report

Want to know how else York Regional Police made a difference in its community last year? Read our 2017 annual report.

2017 Annual Report: +100 New Recruits

Tue, 10 Jul 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Constable Maggie Bradley was making a difference in her community long before she achieved her dream career as a member of York Regional Police.

While studying police foundations at Georgian College in Orillia, she teamed up with her sister Emmily to launch Project C.R.A.S.H., a non-profit organization looking to increase drivers’ awareness of the ‘Big 4’ traffic dangers: Aggressive driving, impaired driving, distracted driving and seatbelt misuse.

“Increasing road safety is important to me because of the way collisions affect everyone in the community—far beyond just those people involved in the accident,” Constable Bradley said.

“The positive impact that a police officer can have on his or her community is both immediate and lasting,” she said.

Having earned her badge, the 29-year-old officer is now better equipped than ever to work proactively to make York Region’s roads safer for everyone. She’s one of 100 well-rounded individuals that entered the sworn ranks in 2017, joining a class of officers that capped off the police service’s most prolific recruiting year in more than a decade.

York Regional Police will be hiring in record numbers over the next several years to fill positions made vacant after a wave of upcoming retirements. Despite the surge, the
organization remains committed to actively recruiting candidates of the highest calibre—like Constable Bradley.

“The officers we hired in 2017 are exemplary ambassadors for their communities and this police service,” said Chief Eric Jolliffe. “Members of this group speak more than a dozen languages, have earned degrees, diplomas and certifications in numerous fields, and have demonstrated, through past experience and volunteerism, their commitment to community service.”

“With every badging ceremony, I am reassured that the safety and security of York Region citizens will continue to be in good hands for years to come,” he said.

YRP was proud to receive the distinction of being named one of Greater Toronto’s Top Employers for the second consecutive year in 2017. Sound like your dream job? Visit yrp.ca/recruiting to learn more.

Read the rest of the 2017 Annual Report

Want to know how else York Regional Police made a difference in its community last year? Read our 2017 annual report.

2017 Annual Report: Citizens Close the Door on Break-and-Enter Thieves

Tue, 10 Jul 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Location, location, location.

Not only does this saying ring true in real estate, it also applies to a group of men who saw their crime spree come to a dramatic end when they picked the wrong location in which
to ply their trade.

In a two-week period in the spring, criminals broke into six houses, five in Vaughan and one in Etobicoke, stealing money, jewelry and other valuables. Officers from #4 District canvassed the area and while many of the homeowners did not have video surveillance, they kept an eye out for unknown vehicles and people in their neighbourhood the old-fashioned way.

A number of citizens took photos of vehicles around their homes and reported suspicious
behaviour to police. Based on a tip from a community member, police turned their attention to a rental vehicle. Investigators linked this vehicle to a team of law breakers
believed to be committing the break-ins.

Following from a discreet distance, #4 District officers observed the suspect vehicle meet with a second vehicle, each with three males inside. Working in tandem, the two vehicles slowly circled houses in a neighbourhood, scouting their next target. One man exited the vehicle and rang the doorbell of one of the homes. When no one answered, he forced his way into the house, accompanied by an accomplice.

Once investigators determined that a break and enter had occurred, they moved in on the suspects. Five of the six men were apprehended at the scene, with the sixth suspect arrested a day later.

A search of the suspect vehicles recovered $15,000 worth of stolen good inside, along with $13,000 in cash. After a search warrant was executed, additional cash, heroin, cocaine, marihuana, jewelry and other valuables were located. Nearly all of the victims of the break and enters recovered their stolen items.

“Break and enters shake the foundation of someone’s sense of security. Knowing strangers were in your home, makes you question your safety,” said #4 District Superintendent Jim MacSween. “The fact that citizens and police worked together to bring these criminals to justice, helps rebuild trust in our community.”

Read the rest of the 2017 Annual Report

Want to know how else York Regional Police made a difference in its community last year? Read our 2017 annual report.

2017 Annual Report: Training Upgrade

Tue, 10 Jul 2018 16:00:00 GMT

York Regional Police opens new training facility

Enveloped in shadows, save for streaks of red and blue light from a nearby police cruiser, a York Regional Police officer knocks on a door that’s already ajar.

Into the apartment, he calls out “Lyle? Police. Lyle are you there?” The officer moves steadily down a narrow hallway and sidesteps around a corner on his right.

Peering around the pale wall, he sees Lyle leap up from his couch and reach for an object on a coffee table. Suddenly, a beer bottle careens toward the officer and he takes cover behind the corner.

The beer bottle hits the wall and lands quietly, harmlessly, on the floor. It’s a prop, like almost everything else inside these walls. The couch, the coffee table and the large, menacing knife on its surface: All soft, squeezable foam, or bouncy, malleable rubber.

But the elements inside the apartment walls—which can be removed or reconfigured to recreate a wide variety of environments—look and feel real. The tools in this practical skills training room help members of the Training and Education Bureau conjure up thousands of unpredictable situations into which officers could be thrust at any moment.

The room is just one item on a list of hundreds of cutting-edge details included in the new Training and Education Facility, which opened in 2017. Dozens of dignitaries, members of the public and media were on hand for a grand opening tour of the nearly 90,000 square-foot facility on July 12.

“More than 125,000 training hours will be delivered in this building each year,” said Chief Eric Jolliffe. “Our community benefits from the skills and development of our people and we are grateful for this beautiful and contemporary place to learn.”

The $30 million facility, which was in development for more than a decade, replaces
a handful of facilities that the organization had long outgrown or were renting, including a training space at #4 District headquarters in Vaughan, an abandoned school in Nobleton and the Sharon Gun Club.

Members of the Uniform Recruiting Unit can now offer prospective police constables a glimpse of the cadet experience. Events once held off-site, like employment information sessions and the York Regional Police Women’s Symposium, will be hosted at the new facility.

“Our organization has a national reputation as a leader for our pioneering and state-of-the-art training,” Chief Jolliffe said. “This new facility will enhance our ability to ensure we remain at the forefront of policing excellence in Canada.”

2017 Annual Report: Project Kronic North

Tue, 10 Jul 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Investigators shut down a cocaine and fentanyl pipeline between York Region and Northern Ontario

Investigators in our Guns, Gangs and Drug Enforcement Unit work hard to keep powerful opioids, like fentanyl, off our streets. This means identifying the traffickers and shutting down their distribution networks, which can span hundreds of kilometres across the province.

This was the case with Project Kronic North, a two-month long investigation that dismantled a fentanyl and cocaine-trafficking network operating between York Region and the City of Greater Sudbury.

Investigators launched this project in April 2017, building on the success of a Toronto-led joint-forces operation, called Project Kronic, that occurred earlier in the year.

Project Kronic North focused on a group of criminals associated with the Driftwood Crips in Toronto. Investigators determined that these individuals were responsible for trafficking thousands of dollars worth of illegal drugs from areas around Ontario, including York Region, to northern Ontario.

Working closely with the Toronto Police Service, Ontario Provincial Police and the Greater Sudbury Police Service, YRP charged 56 individuals with offences related to attempted murder, robbery, kidnapping, drug trafficking, firearms and participation in a criminal organization.

In total, investigators working on Project Kronic North seized about $263,000 in illegal drugs, including nearly 200 fentanyl patches, 200 fentanyl tablets, and substantial amounts of cocaine, crack cocaine and methamphetamine. Investigators also recovered about $57,000 in cash believed to be related to the offences.

Additionally, the arrests thwarted other serious crimes from being committed, including robberies and kidnappings.

What is fentanyl?

Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that can be effective for the treatment of acute and chronic pain. But when it is misused, fentanyl can be deadly.

More than ever before, this opioid is creeping into virtually every illegal drug on the market. It’s cheap and addictive, making it the perfect additive for illegal drugs. Fentanyl is 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine.

British Columbia was the first province to be hit by a staggering number of overdose deaths caused by fentanyl and communities across the country are also seeing the drug’s deadly effects.

Here in York Region, we have seen more than 45 overdoses in the past four years caused by the drug—28 of which resulted in death.

YRP has taken a proactive approach, working closely with community partners to address the issue of illegal opioid use in the region. The York Region Opioid Education and Response Workgroup was formed to educate the public, decrease stigma and enhance collaboration amongst partners, which include YRP, public health, fire services, addiction services, paramedics and community physicians.

Read the rest of the 2017 Annual Report

Want to know how else York Regional Police made a difference in its community last year? Read our 2017 annual report.

2017 Annual Report: Project Raphael

Tue, 10 Jul 2018 16:00:00 GMT

Over a four-year period, officers working in an internal task force called Raphael targeted sexual predators who would solicit the services of juvenile sex workers online.

At an April 2017 press conference, members of the York Regional Police Human Trafficking Team revealed that they had arrested 104 men while working on Project Raphael.

“These officers poured themselves into this investigation for four hard, long years,” said Superintendent Richard Crabtree. “At the end of the day, they are preventing adults from purchasing the services of children.”

Arresting those attempting to purchase sex with children is just one part of a three-pronged
approach York Regional Police uses to combat sex trafficking. It also includes identifying and charging traffickers and rescuing victims.

Project Raphael was made possible by a grant from the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services.

Fighting human trafficking in transit

When it comes to raising awareness about the impact of human trafficking, York Regional Police is on board.

After receiving a grant from the Department of Justice Programs Branch Victims Fund, members of the Human Trafficking Team have produced an annual transit campaign since 2016.

The campaign saw YRP partner with York Region Transit and the Women’s Support Network to showcase anti-human trafficking messages on the exteriors and interiors of buses across the region.

“When people think of human trafficking, they often see it as a far-away problem,” said Superintendent Crabtree. “We need people to understand that the victims of human trafficking are often from our own communities”.

“These girls experience significant and long-lasting trauma from which most never recover,” said Susan Orlando, provincial co-ordinator of human trafficking prosecutors for the Ontario attorney general, at the press conference.

“Young lives are irreparably damaged, some completely destroyed,” she added.

Learn more about the work of the Human Trafficking Team and its efforts to stop sex trafficking at yrp.ca/StopSexTrafficking.

Read the rest of the 2017 Annual Report

Want to know how else York Regional Police made a difference in its community last year? Read our 2017 annual report.

2018 Business Survey

Fri, 27 Apr 2018 15:30:00 GMT

As part of our ongoing Business Plan consultation, the Planning, Research and Evaluation Unit mailed out our 2018 Business Survey on April 23.

This survey was sent to 6,500 randomly selected businesses (and any organization that employs staff) and will run until the closing date of June 4.

Respondents will be able to fill out the survey online or on paper, and return by paid postage mail.

Please direct questions to 1-866-876-5423, ext. 2052 or email survey@yrp.ca.

Thank you for your assistance in our business planning process.

Don't Go Along for the R.I.D.E.

Thu, 16 Nov 2017 20:15:00 GMT

After 10 years of launching the YRP festive R.I.D.E. season and the MADD York Region Red Ribbon Campaign, Kevin Frankish still sounds as passionate as he did in his first year in taking up the fight against impaired driving.

On November 14, he asked students at Bill Crothers Secondary School in Markham to take out their phones - never far out of reach for teens aged 13 to 18. They recorded the television host as he pleaded with students' parents to champion the cause by promoting safety on the roads and offering kids a lift if they might be drinking.

Frankish was joined by Deputy Chief Tom Carrique, Sergeant Karen Hodge and former MADD York Region president Kathy Mitchell in delivering this year's festive R.I.D.E. message: Don't go along for the R.I.D.E.

If your friend jumped out of an airplane without a parachute, or went out for a skate on paper-thin ice, would you follow him? Didn't think so.

So when your friend gets behind the wheel after drinking, don't go along for the R.I.D.E. Stay out of the vehicle and call 9-1-1 if you suspect someone is driving drunk or high.

Last year, York Regional Police laid more than 1,600 impaired driving-related charges. That number has increased year over year for half a decade.

Crime Prevention Month

Fri, 10 Nov 2017 19:45:00 GMT

This year's Crime Prevention Month got a off to a bright start when we kicked off our Shine a Light on Crime Prevention campaign in Markham. Thanks to the generous donation of 15,000 light bulbs from Philips Lighting and in partnership with Crime Stoppers, our team went door to door to educate citizens about how they can keep their property safe. There have been more than 900 break and enters and 1,500 thefts from vehicles in the south end of York Region since the beginning of the year. A new dashboard insert for citizens to help them prevent thefts from vehicles will also be distributed this month.

Our month-long campaign will focus on home safety the first week, followed by safety tips for business owners, seniors and teens over the next four weeks. Follow along on our website and social media channels all month for important tips.

National Teen Driver Safety Week

Fri, 20 Oct 2017 19:30:00 GMT

Officers from Community Services, #4 District and the Road Safety Bureau visited local high schools this week to educate youth about safe driving practices during National Teen Driver Safety Week. While teens account for only 12 per cent of drivers, they are involved in approximately 20 per cent of all road-related injuries and fatalities.

While stressing the dangers of distracted and aggressive driving and speeding, our members took an interactive approach when it came to impaired driving by having students don the fatal vision goggles. The goggles mimic the effects of alcohol and drugs on vision. Once wearing the goggles, the students attempted to walk a straight line with sobering results. They quickly came to the realization if you couldn’t walk a straight line, you definitely couldn’t drive.

YRP will continue to work with our community towards making York Region roads safe for everyone.

For more information about safe driving tips for teens, visit the National Teen Driver Safety website.

Flying the Rainbow Flag

Thu, 02 Jun 2016 20:45:00 GMT

We showcased our YRP Pride at the second flag-raising ceremony to launch Pride Month.

Nearly 200 members and community partners attended the event, serving as a sign of our commitment to inclusivity.

Chief Jolliffe thanked our members and community partners for their participation in the event and stressed the importance of our continued efforts through educational and outreach opportunities to build a safe and welcoming community.

YRP will be participating in several flag-raising events throughout the month, as well as having members participate in the York Region Pride Parade on June 18 and in the Toronto Pride Parade on July 3.

Show your pride this month and come out to some of these events.

Celebrating Police Week

Mon, 16 May 2016 15:45:00 GMT

It may have been cold and wet but policing is 24/7, so we welcomed the public to our annual Police Week Open House at the Community Safety Village on May 14. The event kicked off 2016 Police Week, which runs from May 15 to 21.

More than 1,500 citizens were glad they braved the rain and wind as they talked to members of YRP to learn about policing. The fun-filled day included demonstrations and exhibits from various units including Canine, Emergency Response, Traffic Services, Crime Prevention and Recruiting, with everyone getting a chance to talk to their local officers. Community partners from York Region EMS, York Region Fire Services, Road Watch, Crime Stoppers and Canadian Tire Jumpstart were also on hand to talk to the community about their programs.

For anyone who didn’t get a chance to come to the Open House, don’t worry. Our five York Regional district locations will be open to the public for tours this week in celebration of Police Week. Visit your local District on one of the days listed:

#1 District, 240 Prospect Street, Newmarket
Monday, May 16 and Wednesday, May 18, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

#2 District, 171 Major Mackenzie Drive West, Richmond Hill
Wednesday, May 18, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

#3 District, 3527 Baseline Road, Sutton
Monday, May 16 and Wednesday, May 18, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

#4 District, 2700 Rutherford Road, Vaughan
Wednesday, May 18, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

#5 District, 8700 McCowan Road, Markham
Monday, May 16 through to Thursday, May 19, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

For more information and a complete list of activities and events during Police Week, please contact Community Services at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6709.

Working Together to Eliminate Street Racing Activities Everywhere

Fri, 29 Apr 2016 20:15:00 GMT

Did you know that driving 50 km/h or more over the speed limit will net you fines of up to $10,000, a 30-day suspension and get your car impounded?

These are just a few of the facts that York Regional Police and partnering police services shared at the launch of Project E.R.A.S.E. on April 29 at Canadian Tire Motorsport Park. The aim of Project E.R.A.S.E. is to eliminate racing activities on streets everywhere. More than 22 police services from across Ontario, as well as the Ministry of Transportation and the Ministry of the Environment, are working hard to protect our roadways.

York Regional Police Inspector Randy Slade was on hand to speak about the dangers and consequences of street racing and stunt driving.

“We’ve seen the horrific pictures of mangles vehicles and we hear about the tragic loss of life caused by this dangerous activity,” said Inspector Slade. “What we don’t see are the broken families and the heartache they carry for the rest of their lives. Street racing has no place on our roads or highways.”

Aggressive driving and street racing are unlawful activities that puts innocent people at risk of injury or death. If you see or know of street racing activity, call your local police service. Call 9-1-1 if you see anyone partaking in this activity with an immediate threat to public safety. Try to note the vehicle’s location, direction of travel, make, model, licence plate number and driver’s description.

Let’s work together to keep our streets safe.

Getting Ready to Ride

Thu, 21 Apr 2016 19:15:00 GMT

Rising temperatures means rising numbers of motorcycles on our roads and we want to remind you to use extra care when you hit the road. While we always want you to be careful, you should take it easy on your first few ride when you get back on your bike. And we take that advice seriously as members of the York Regional Police Traffic Bureau, along with partnering agencies, held their annual spring requalification on April 20 to make sure they are road ready after a long winter.

The requalification covered:

Appropriate safety equipment (helmets, protective clothing, visibility)
Proper maintenance on vehicles
Road and off-road riding
Always ride with a partner
Safety tips such as always riding with a partner, carrying a cellphone and letting someone know where you are going and when you’ll be back
Ensuring the off-road vehicle is suited to the rider’s size and ability
Making sure vehicles are tied down properly and that a trailer is securely attached when transporting or towing vehicles

For motorists, you need to make sure you double check your surroundings while driving. We want you to check blind spots twice for motorcycles before making turns or lane changes. Motorcycles often reduce their speed by down shifting which means you may not have the visual warning of a brake light when a motorcycle is slowing down. Remember, a motorcycle is a vehicle too. Motorcyclists have the right to travel in a designated lane and all vehicles must share the roadway. In the event of a collision, the driver of a motorcycle does not have the same level of protection as the driver of other vehicles. We all need to be mindful of their safety.

More than one-third of motorcycle collisions occur at intersections. Approach slowly, ensure you look in all directions and proceed with caution. This caution applies to both motorists and motorcyclists alike.

York Regional Police is also reminding residents that go-peds, a miniature motorcycle, also referred to as a ‘pocket bike’ and other off-road vehicles are not street legal and must not be driven on the road.

We wish everyone a safe riding season.

Male Chorus Celebrates Silver Anniversary

Wed, 20 Apr 2016 15:30:00 GMT

Members of the York Regional Police Male Chorus celebrated an incredible quarter-century of musical service on April 15.

Mayor Frank Scarpitti, Chair of the York Regional Police Services Board, and board member John Molyneaux attended the event at Oakview Terrace in Richmond Hill, while Chief Eric Jolliffe personally congratulated chorus members on their achievement.

"Your songs have brought warmth to the cold hallways of hospitals and nursing homes and your voices have been the highlight of hundreds of premier events," said Chief Jolliffe. "Your dedication to musical service and the perfection of your craft has remained steadfast for 25 years and that alone is an outstanding achievement."

The Male Chorus was formed in 1991 as part of a community-policing initiative and delivered its first performance at the Markville Shopping Centre on May 15, 1991. YRP Superintendent (Ret.) Lowell McClenny, a founding member of the chorus, still serves as its co-ordinator.

"Lowell’s leadership has truly made a positive and lasting impact on the group, York Regional Police and our community," Chief Jolliffe said.

Last year, McClenny was also inducted into the Aurora Sports Hall of Fame for his contributions to minor hockey and for giving sports a voice in Aurora, as he hosted his own local sports show called Sportsbeat Aurora from 1982 to 2008. He is one of several chorus members who were recognized in 2011 with an Ontario Volunteer Service award.

Members of the chorus have long embodied the spirit of volunteerism, donating 17,000 hours and performing an average of 25 events each year.

Their voices are heard annually at the Canadian Police and Peace Officers' Memorial on Parliament Hill in Ottawa and at the Ontario Police Memorial Ceremony of Remembrance in Toronto. Chorus members have travelled on four goodwill tours, three across the United Kingdom and one in Newfoundland and Labrador.

A Huge Thank You to Our Volunteers

Wed, 13 Apr 2016 14:00:00 GMT

An invaluable resource to every organization, volunteers are a vital part of the York Regional Police family. From neighbourhood outreach to community events, our organization wouldn’t be able to reach as many members of our community if it wasn’t for our volunteers.

In recognition of National Volunteer Week, we would like to highlight the incredible dedication of these special members of YRP and let you know how and where they make a difference in York Region.

Auxiliary Officers

Auxiliary members support uniform patrol in the delivery of community-based crime prevention initiatives and ground searches for lost or missing people. Members also volunteer at community events such as parades, fairs and assist uniform officers with traffic control, crowd control and general patrol.

Special Events Volunteers

Some of them may wear funny costumes, but special event and mascot volunteers play a serious role in connecting York Regional Police with our community. These volunteers are often the first point of contact for members of the public at community events.

Special event volunteers assist at events held at the Community Safety Village of York Region, police districts and other community hubs throughout the region. Although no two events are identical, special events volunteers set up and take down materials at events, handle registration, work with police and auxiliary officers to provide crime prevention tips, administration duties, and various other community-oriented tasks.

Pipes and Drums

The York Regional Pipe and Drum Band is committed to longstanding community and global presence. Its members, currently consisting of 19 pipers and drummers support various cultural events, parades, fundraisers and official police functions each year. They have dedicated themselves to improving themselves musically through competition and collaboration with a Highland Dance troupe and partnering musicians. They are capable of captivating audiences in the tens or in the thousands, in York Region or around the globe and have recently made forays into competition at local Highland Games events.

Male Chorus

From sacred music to Broadway show tunes to rock n' roll, no song is too ambitious for the York Regional Police Male Chorus' repertoire. Since its formation in 1991, the chorus has entertained audiences as far as the United Kingdom, Newfoundland and Quebec. It has performed on Parliament Hill in Ottawa for the annual Canadian Police and Peace Officers' Memorial and at the Ontario Police Memorial Service at Queen's Park in Toronto, all the while remaining a pillar in their own community, here in York Region.

Singing in four-part harmony, the Male Chorus performs more than 20 times each year, raising thousands of dollars for charitable organizations locally. The chorus has produced four recordings, which are available at all of its productions.

Youth Band

Since their first performance in November 2009, the York Regional Police Youth Band has been in high demand. And the complement of 17 highly-talented students from throughout York Region is up to the task.

The Youth Band has performed at many high-profile events, including Mississauga's Battle of the Bands, the Kickoff to March Break at the Hillcrest Mall, the Markham Santa Claus Parade and the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination. The band has also been a staple at the Community Safety Village of York Region.

On behalf of York Regional Police, we offer a heart-felt thank you to our volunteers for the countless hours they dedicated to our community.

Deeds Speak

Celebrating Telecommunicators Week

Mon, 11 Apr 2016 16:00:00 GMT

YRP is celebrating National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week from April 11 to 15 and there’s no better time to show your appreciation to our call-takers and dispatchers. Created in 1981, it’s an opportunity to celebrate and thank those who dedicate their lives to serving the public. It is a week that is set aside to acknowledge their hard work and dedication.

They are the invisible “first” First Responders, the lifeline between someone who needs help and those who provide it. It takes a special kind of person to work in the Communication Unit. They need to be the ultimate multi-tasker, interpreting the callers’ needs, communicating with officers and making split second decisions.

They spend as much time with their co-workers as they do with family, miss out on family events and holidays and are sometimes on the end of some very stressful calls.

Through it all, they are here because they want to help others, so please take a moment this week to post a thank you to our call-takers and dispatchers on our social media channels and we’ll be happy to pass it along to them.

Fraud Awareness Month - Ticket Scams

Wed, 16 Mar 2016 13:45:00 GMT

You really want to go to an event, Taylor Swift is in town, the Toronto Blue Jays are in the playoffs, but tickets are hard to come by.

You start your search and find a great deal. You and your friends make plans for a big night, but when you show up you find out the truth. Your tickets are fake.

While there are legitimate tickets for sale on various Internet sites by people who can no longer attend, there are many fraudulent tickets out there. It’s one of the easiest scams to fall victim to because it’s a buy now, use later business. And fake tickets are relatively easy to recreate.

Here are a few tips that can keep you from being heartbroken the night of a big event.

The old adage ‘if it looks too good to be true’ is a saying for a reason. If it’s an amazing deal, question it. Prices should be close in comparison.
Don’t send any money via the Internet. Always exchange money in person, in a safe location. Ideally, it’s best to meet at the location of the event. That way you can check the ticket’s validity before exchanging money.

E-tickets are easy to recreate. Many are generated off real tickets and printed off in multiples. Sadly, only the first ones will work at the gate. The rest will be denied access to the venue.
Never let anyone pressure you into buying the tickets. Scammers will say you need to move fast before you lose out. It’s better to do a little research and save yourself some money in the long run.
If you do fall victim to a scam, report it to police. Although you may never recover your money or think the time involved in reporting it will be worth it, but it can help police investigations and potentially lead an arrest.

Next week, we’ll discuss Romance Scams and what you can do to protect yourself when entering the online dating world.

Fraud Awareness Month - Phishing

Tue, 08 Mar 2016 18:15:00 GMT

For the second week of Fraud Prevention Month, we’re going to talk about phishing. Not to be confused with fishing however, there are parallels. Criminals throw out cyberbait and hope you bite.

Phishing scams are geared towards getting you to divulge personal and banking information, usually through an email. A lot of work goes into the emails to make them seem like the come from legitimate organizations, but real companies will never ask you to share this information via email.

Often, scammers are asking you to “authenticate”, “validate” or “confirm” information in their quest to get your money. Always proceed with caution if you receive one of these emails. These suspicious messages also include links that carry viruses that can infect your computer. Your best bet is to delete the email and if you think the request could be legitimate, call the company to verify the request.

Before responding to any email, remember to THINK –

Talk to the company requesting the information

Hesitate and consider if it is a real request

Ignore requests to input personal data

Never click on the links included

Keep a record of your accounts and online activity

Next week, we’ll discuss Romance Scams and what you can do to protect yourself when entering the online dating world.

YORK REGIONAL POLICE WELCOMES A NEW FRIEND TO THE AIR SUPPORT UNIT

Fri, 04 Mar 2016 17:15:00 GMT

For Robbie Suwary, a debilitating physical disorder is no limitation at all. It simply allows him to focus on better using his mind.

Robbie, who suffers from cerebral palsy, is chasing his loftiest dream: To become a pilot. And, against all odds, he's getting closer to it every day.

The Grade 11 student is attending a private pilot program at Buttonville Municipal Airport in Markham and has already clocked several thousand hours of virtual flight. He cannot walk, has limited mobility in both his arms and legs and requires the assistance of his parents at all times to complete tasks required for living daily. Robbie, who attends classes in a wheelchair, is proficient in mathematics and physics which helps him to excel as a flight student.

That's where he met Constable Mina Rahravan, a Tactical Flight Officer (TFO) in the York Regional Police Air Support Unit. Constable Rahravan was in awe of Robbie, who was one of the youngest students in her navigation and flight instruments course.

"Robbie is an outstanding example of how a powerful mind can overcome physical boundaries to fulfill his dreams," said Constable Rahravan.

Constable Rahravan knows what it's like to overcome obstacles on her way to achieving her dream of becoming a pilot. Growing up in Tehran, Iran, she was told that as a woman, her dream would never become a reality.

As she forged a connection with Robbie, she wanted to grant him a brand new opportunity - the chance to join the Air Support Unit in Air2. On February 24, Robbie joined Constable Rahravan and the entire crew of Air2, sitting in the TFO's seat alongside the pilot.

"He had an unforgettable experience sitting in that seat," Constable Rahravan said. "His family was grateful to see the happiest smile ever on his face."

But flying isn't all fun and games for Robbie. He has another dream: to attend Ryerson University for aeronautical engineering.

This time, we'd say the odds are stacked in his favour.

2016 Community Survey

Thu, 03 Mar 2016 14:15:00 GMT

In order to develop the 2017 - 2019 Business Plan, the York Regional Police Planning, Research and Evaluation Unit has sent out a 2016 Community Survey to 12,000 randomly selected households in York Region.

The document was mailed out on Tuesday March 1, 2016 and the deadline has been extended to April 18, 2016. We want to let our citizens know that this is a legitimate document and we would appreciate your participation.

If you have any inquiries regarding this survey, please email to survey@yrp.ca.

Fraud Awareness Month

Tue, 01 Mar 2016 20:30:00 GMT

March marks Fraud Awareness Month and every Tuesday we will be highlighting a different scam and tips on how you can protect yourself against fraudsters. We will also be hosting an interactive chat on Twitter the last week of March where citizens can have their questions answered in real time.

First, we’ll highlight the Telephone Scam. In this scam, someone will call your home in an attempt to have you send money or get you to divulge personal banking information.

A current scam happening right now is the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) scam. We’ve seen a recent increase in the number of tax-related scams where fraudsters contact the victim and identify themselves as police officers collecting overdue taxes on behalf of the CRA. In some cases, the suspects have been able use software to make it appear as if they are calling from a police phone line.

Organizations such as York Regional Police, the CRA and Citizenship and Immigration Canada will never ask you to divulge personal or banking information over the phone.

Another way fraudsters try to get your money is by claiming there is an emergency and they need money right away. Often, the caller will pretend to be a grandchild who has been arrested or in an accident. The caller may also claim to be a lawyer representing a relative and demand a money transfer in order to help your loved one.

Always exercise caution if you are approached in this manner. Never transfer money and ask the caller if you can call them back so you can research the information they have given you.

If they persist in harassing you or threatening you in anyway, please contact police at 1-866-876-5423.

Check back with us next week as we discuss Phishing, an online and email scam.

Keeping Our Roads Safe

Mon, 04 Jan 2016 17:45:00 GMT

Another new component of the Making Ontario’s Roads Safer Act, which came into effect January 1, 2016, requires drivers and cyclists to yield the whole roadway to pedestrians at pedestrian crossovers and at school crossings where there is a school crossing guard displaying a stop sign.

The rule applies at all pedestrian crossovers that are identified with specific signs, road markings and lights. It does not apply to pedestrian crosswalks at intersections with stop signs or traffic signals, unless a school crossing guard is present.

Fines for an infraction can range from $150 to $300 and will also cost drivers three demerit points.

Additional updates expected to the Making Ontario’s Roads Safer Act in 2016 include stricter penalties for those who drive under the influence of drugs and extending remedial measures and ignition interlock requirement to any repeated alcohol/drug impaired driving charges under the Highway Traffic Act.

Road safety continues to be a top priority for York Regional Police. Continued education, awareness and enforcement of the Making Ontario Roads Safer Act, helps ensure roadways across Ontario are safe for all road users. Traffic safety is everyone’s responsibility.

York Regional Police Hosts Fifth Annual Remembrance Ceremony

Tue, 10 Nov 2015 19:45:00 GMT

The names of nine courageous men now line the path to the Recognition Stone in Georgina after York Regional Police hosted its fifth annual Remembrance Ceremony on November 6 at #3 District headquarters.

The markers of recognition honour nine former police officers in York Region who served in Canadian or Allied forces during and after the Second World War: Robbie Robbins, Bill Hill, Fred Mason, Tom Shields, John Tsinonis, Peter Foulds, Bill Hay, Bob Whitman and the first Chief of York Regional Police, Bruce Crawford.

Family members, friends and old war buddies arrived by the dozen to see the names written in stone.

“After fighting valiantly to protect our coveted freedoms, each of these men returned to York Region to ensure the safety and security of our community here at home,” said Chief Eric Jolliffe.

“These markers of recognition are only a small token of the great appreciation we have for their bravery in the face of war and their invaluable contributions to our community.”

Today, 51 York Regional Police members have served or are currently serving our country as members of the Canadian Forces.

“We remain committed to working together to ensure all people are safe and secure and we proudly stand next to the men and women of the Canadian Forces with this goal in sight,” Chief Jolliffe said.

The Recognition Stone at #3 District headquarters has been the focal point of the YRP Remembrance Ceremony since being unveiled in 2011.

In August, another marker was laid near the stone to commemorate the visit of L’association Westlake Brothers Souvenir, a group of students from France who travel the world to pay tribute to Canadian veterans.

The group visited #3 District headquarters and then Georgina Island to honour the contribution of First Nations soldiers to the liberation of France and the end of the Second World War.

See photos from the event on our Facebook page, or watch the video below.

Halloween in the Village Raises Thousands for United Way

Tue, 27 Oct 2015 11:30:00 GMT

Heavy rain couldn’t dampen spirits at another successful Halloween in the Village on October 24 in Whitchurch-Stouffville.

The event, hosted at the Community Safety Village of York Region, raised $3,840 for United Way. Event organizers collected a $5 entry donation from each car that attended, while many visitors made additional monetary and/or food donations.

More than 3,100 people in total passed through the gates on the rainy Saturday. Little ghouls, goblins and critters of all kinds enjoyed trick or treating, a haunted house, colouring station, movie room and a chance to meet the UNITED superhero.

Want to see some spook-tacular images from Halloween in the Village 2015? See this photo gallery on our Facebook page.

Heroes in Life

Tue, 29 Sep 2015 18:00:00 GMT

Members of York Regional Police stood united with thousands of fellow officers at the 38^th Annual Canadian Police and Peace Officers Memorial on Parliament Hill on September 27.

The annual memorial honours the more than 800 Canadian police and peace officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice. Tragically four officers were added to the memorial wall in the last year:

Correctional Officer Rhonda Commodore, Manitoba Corrections, end of service November 6, 2014
Constable David Wynn, Royal Canadian Mounted Police Alberta, end of service January 21, 2015
Commercial Transport Enforcement Officer Toni Kristinsson, British Columbia Department of Transportation and Infrastructure, end of service February 1, 2015
Constable Daniel Woodall, Edmonton Police Service, end of service June 6, 2015

Eight historical names were also added to the wall this year.

Numerous members also took time to honour the fallen in the days leading up to the memorial during the Ride to Remember and the Run to Remember. The Ride to Remember started on Wednesday, September 23 at the Ontario Police College in Alymer and ten YRP cyclists joined the 120 cyclists from 13 other police services, riding more than 700 kilometres over four days on the road to Ottawa. The Run to Remember saw approximately 30 members participate in various legs of the run, with 15 members participating in the 460-kilometre relay alongside 19 different agencies.

Each year, it is inspiring to see how many officers and members of the public attend the service to honour those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

Heroes in Life

Back to School Road Safety

Tue, 08 Sep 2015 19:15:00 GMT

It’s official, the kids are back in school. Take some time to review your driving habits and to talk to children about road safety.

Tips for motorists:

Laws and fines in school zones exist for a reason – the safety of our children.

*Watch for children who may be trying to cross the street
*Keep an eye out for kids on bikes, skateboards and scooters
*Maintain a safe speed
*Adhere to the crossing guards’ instructions
*Always be ready to stop
*Make eye contact with kids so they know that you’ve seen them

For kids:

Talk to your kids about road safety so they know how to travel to and from school.

*If possible, kids should travel to and from school with a friend
*Kids should be taught to walk on the sidewalk, not on the road, and to cross at intersections
*If they are riding a bike, they must wear a helmet at all times
*Children should cross the road at intersections and always cross with caution
*Kids should never wear headphones while walking, riding a bike, a scooter or a skateboard. They won't be able to hear traffic or warning shouts

Have a safe and successful school year.

Keeping Our Roads Safe

Wed, 02 Sep 2015 14:15:00 GMT

Several components of the Making Ontario’s Roads Safer Act - including increased fines for distracted driving, a requirement to maintain a one-metre distance when passing cyclists and the inclusion of tow trucks in the Slow Down, Move-Over law - came into effect September 1, 2015.

As of September 1, drivers caught texting, sending emails or talking without a headset will face an increased fine of $490, up from the previous fine of $200 and if convicted, drivers will lose three demerit points. G1 or G2 drivers could have their licence suspended immediately for a minimum of 30 days.

Included in the new changes is the one-metre rule for cyclists, requiring drivers to leave a one-metre distance when passing a cyclists, whenever possible. Failure to do so can result in a $110 fine and two demerit points. Additional charges incorporate a $365 fine and three demerit points to anyone who hits a cyclist when opening a car door and cyclists are now required to have proper bicycle lights and reflectors or face a $110 fine.

Also starting on September 1, is the inclusion of tow trucks under the Move-Over law. Now being treated the same as emergency vehicles, motorists are required to slow down and move over, one lane if possible, for tow trucks with flashing lights parked on the side of the road or face fines ranging from $400 to $2,000 and three demerit points.

Two additional updates to the Making Ontario’s Roads Safer Act will be introduced January 1, 2016 including stricter penalties for those who drive under the influence of drugs and an increased fine for drivers entering school or pedestrian crossings before pedestrians have reached the other side of the road.

As the beginning of the school year approaches, road safety remains paramount. Through the new regulations in Making Ontario’s Roads Safer Act and with continued education, awareness and enforcement, we can all do our part to ensure roadways across Ontario are safe for all road users. Traffic safety is everyone’s responsibility.

Dog Days of Summer - Kye

Fri, 14 Aug 2015 19:15:00 GMT

There are only a few weeks of summer left, but we still have more amazing Police Service Dogs to feature during our Dog Days of Summer.

Up this week is Kye, a high-energy, three-year-old German Shepherd from Slovakia. Kye and his handler Constable Mandy Bambrough were thrown into a challenging situation their first shift together when they were dispatched to locate a distraught young girl in a wooded area. Thankfully, the youth was located safe and sound.

This canine, which is trained in handler protection, tracking, building, area and articles searches and suspect apprehension, is also known as ninja for his jumping ability and agility. All great things for the citizens of York Region.

Dog Days of Summer - Training

Fri, 07 Aug 2015 19:45:00 GMT

Not unlike the postal service, neither rain nor heat nor gloom of night keeps our dedicated canines from safeguarding the streets of York Region.

This week, we share some pictures of our dogs going through their daily training regimens which includes:

Agility courses
Building and article searches
Handler protection
Suspect apprehension and tracking

All of this training takes place on top of the mandatory 550 hours a canine must successfully complete before becoming a full-time member of the unit.

Dog Days of Summer - Rico

Fri, 31 Jul 2015 18:30:00 GMT

Our new recruits go through intense training during months of preparation in hopes of becoming members of York Regional Police and the four-legged members of the Canine Unit are expected to do the same.

This week’s Dog Days of Summer featured pup is canine hopeful Rico, a one-year-old German Shepherd from the Czech Republic. Rico has been undergoing training for three weeks and is full of energy and enthusiasm, which he’ll need, as he has to successfully complete 550 hours of training before hitting the streets of York Region.

Once on the streets, Rico will have some big paws to fill. His new handler Constable Mike McGuigan had 41 apprehensions, resulting in 120 charges during his career with his former partner Ranger. The duo also placed 2^nd at the Provincial Police Iron Dog Competition in 2009.

It looks like Rico will have to put his nose to grindstone when he officially joins our team.

Dog Days of Summer - PSD Cirk

Fri, 24 Jul 2015 18:45:00 GMT

Yesterday, Police Service Dog Cirk worked one of his hardest shifts yet, searching for a fleeing suspect for more than three hours. Today, he gets rewarded with some bubbles for the fourth week of Dog Days of Summer.

PSD Cirk is one of a handful of Yankees in the Canine Unit, having come to York Region from Summitville, N.Y. He joined the service in May 2014, just days before his first birthday.

While PSD Cirk is trained in handler protection, tracking, building and area searches, article searches, suspect apprehension and obedience, he is one of the unit’s most social dogs, showing off a calm, cool demeanour when not at work. Next week we’ll meet an extremely enthusiastic Canine Unit hopeful, PSD Rico.

Dog Days of Summer - PSD Murphy

Fri, 17 Jul 2015 17:00:00 GMT

Stepping into the spotlight during the third week of the Dog Days of Summer is Police Service Dog Murphy.

Born on August 2, 2013, this new member of the Canine Unit had his paws to the pavement during his first shift on July 11. Although he can be a bit clumsy at times (as evident by a scar under his right eye), he excels in tracking. Trained in handler protection, area and building searches, evidence location and suspect apprehension, Murphy completed his basic training course on Canada Day.

Next week, we’ll introduce you to another one of our four-legged friends as the Dog Days of Summer roll on.

Dog Days of Summer - PSD Nero

Fri, 10 Jul 2015 20:00:00 GMT

Our second week of the Dogs Days of Summer features Police Service Dog (PSD) Nero. He’s excited to get his paws wet this weekend as he works his first night shifts, safeguarding the streets of York Region.

PSD Nero was born on February 23, 2014, in Slovakia and came to Canada on March 17, 2014. He officially became a PSD after passing his basic course, with flying colours, on June 30, 2015. Nero is trained in handler protection, tracking, area and building searches as well as evidence location, suspect apprehension and obedience.

Next week we’ll introduce another new member, PSD Murphy.

Look Up. Way Up.

Fri, 10 Jul 2015 15:00:00 GMT

That’s where you might see the first York Regional Police unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), investigators’ newest tool in mapping the scenes of serious and fatal collisions.

The UAV was unveiled at a July 10 press conference, where it buzzed high above the heads of members of the media and shared impressive high-resolution video.

Investigators predict that the new vehicle will reduce road-closure times by up to 50 per cent, as it captures aerial images to be used in the detailed electronic mapping of a collision scene. Currently, road closures after a serious or fatal collision often take eight to 10 hours.

Increased efficiency at accident scenes is just one of the benefits the UAV will provide – the device will also serve in several other important roles at York Regional Police. The UAV will conserve police resources as it aids in searches for missing vulnerable people, conducts security sweeps of empty venues in advance of large outdoor events within York Region and assists with incidents that may involve hazardous materials to limit exposure to first responders.

“The UAV is a welcome addition to our investigative tool box,” said Chief of Police Eric Jolliffe. “Not only will our highly-trained investigators be able to map collision scenes more efficiently, but other units within York Regional Police, such as Search and Rescue, will also be able to benefit from the use of a UAV.”

The SkyRanger UAV, manufactured by Waterloo-based Aeryon, is piloted from a tablet using an automated route. It requires two trained York Regional Police operators to fly: one manning the tablet and the other observing the vehicle’s flight in the sky.

The metre-wide, 2.4 kilogram vehicle features three cameras: a powerful zoom, a stabilized infrared camera and a mapping camera. It can sustain wind gusts of nearly 90 km/h and easily reaches 400 feet - the limit imposed by Transport Canada - in seconds.

York Regional Police also used the media event to remind citizens about regulations put in place by Transport Canada to increase safety while flying their own UAVs.

“These devices are not remote-controlled toys and should be handled very carefully,” said Constable Andy Pattenden. “Many people may be unaware that there have strict regulations to follow when flying their own UAVs.”

York Regional Police has three trained UAV operators. Each has undergone a four day pilot ground school and spent two days in manual flight training. For more information on flight regulations, visit the Transport Canada website.

Dog Days of Summer

Fri, 03 Jul 2015 16:45:00 GMT

In ancient Rome, the hot weather in July and August was attributed to the “Dog Star” Sirius because it would line up with the sun, combining energy to raise the temperature. We know better now, but YRP’s summer weeks will once again belong to dogs. During the next 10 weeks, we will be featuring members of York Regional Police’s Canine Unit in our own version of the Dog Days of Summer.

To kick off our series, we’re featuring Police Service Dogs (PSD) Cyrus, Jack and Max who will be using their explosive-detection skills at the Pan Am and Parapan Am games.

Cyrus was born right smack in the middle of the Dog Days of Summer on July 26, 2012, in the Czech Republic. He came to Canada in December 2013 to be sworn in as a York Regional Police Service Dog. Along with explosive detection, this German Shepherd’s credentials include handler protection, tracking, building and area searches, article searches, suspect apprehension and obedience. Constable Mark Burnett is his handler.

PSD Jack was born June 6, 2011, in Conastota, New York. He joined York Regional Police in December 2013 and, together with his handler Constable Todd Woods, they respond to explosive-detection incidents.

The third canine in this trio is Max. Born in the Czech Republic on December 12, 2008, Max came to Canada to become a Police Service Dog. Constable Jim Hilton and his German Shepherd partner, sniff out any potential explosive devices that could affect the safety of the citizens of York Region.

Check back with us next week as we introduce the two newest members to join the canine team, Murphy and Nero.

Pledge to Ignore

Mon, 22 Jun 2015 17:15:00 GMT

In most cases, it’s considered rude to ignore people. But there is never a better time to ignore someone than when you’re behind the wheel. Along with our partners from York Region, we launched Pledge to Ignore, a road safety initiative focused on saving lives by putting an end to distracted driving.

Distracted driving is now the leading cause of collisions on our roadways. Cellphone use isn’t the only reason for distracted driving charges. Adjusting your GPS, stereo, or air conditioning can also be considered a distraction. We’ve even seen drivers applying makeup, eating a bowl of oatmeal and watching movies. You also need to be mentally focused when behind the wheel so save any serious or distracting conversations, whether it’s on your hands-free device or with your passengers, for when you’re home.

Not only can you help save lives by taking the pledge, you can save yourself some money as fines for distracted driving offences are set to increase this fall. New fines for distracted driving range from $300 to $1,000 (plus $255 for victim surcharge and court fee) and cost motorists three demerit points, a significant jump from $280 and no points.

Roadway safety continues to be a top priority for York Regional Police and, as a result, the offences relating to distracted driving will be strictly enforced.

We want to remind all motorists to drive with respect and obey all rules of the road. No distraction is worth anyone's life. Do your part and take the pledge now.

Police Services Board Breaks Ground for New Training Facility

Fri, 19 Jun 2015 18:30:00 GMT

It's official.

The ground has been broken for a $30 million York Regional Police training facility in East Gwillimbury.

Regional Chair Wayne Emmerson, Mayor Frank Scarpitti, Chair of the Regional Municipality of York Police Services Board Frank Scarpitti, Chief Eric Jolliffe and East Gwillimbury Mayor Hackson put shovels in the ground at the building site on June 19.

The impressive new facility will include a firing range, areas for defensive tactics and fitness and classrooms. It will be a LEED silver building encompassing roughly 73,000 square feet.

The new facility will be designed to deliver first-class training that will benefit YRP members and our service to the community.

Construction is expected to be completed in December 2016.

Celebrating Pride Month

Wed, 03 Jun 2015 12:45:00 GMT

It was one for the history books for York Regional Police as Chief Eric Jolliffe raised the rainbow flag at headquarters, during the launch of Pride Month on June 1.

More than 100 members, community partners and senior leadership attended the inaugural event, serving as a sign of our commitment to inclusivity for everyone.

“Partnering with community agencies such as PFLAG York Region, York Pride Fest, My House and York Pride and with the creation of the LGBTQ Internal Support Network, we can continue to work together through educational and outreach opportunities to build a safe, welcoming and inclusive community,” said Chief Jolliffe.

YRP will be participating in several events throughout the month, as well as having a contingent of members in the York Region Pride Parade on June 20 and in the Toronto Pride Parade on June 28.

Show your pride and celebrate at the events in your community. Check out York Pride Fest for a calendar of events.

York Regional Police Carries Torch Run to New Record

Tue, 19 May 2015 20:00:00 GMT

One runner finished the five-kilometre race in just over 19 minutes. Nearly an hour later, the final participants in the 10-kilometre section pulled themselves over the finish line, drenched in sweat.

Between them, roughly 400 participants and dozens of supporters made the eighth annual Rob Plunkett Memorial Torch Run the most successful yet, raising $25,000 for Special Olympics Ontario.

The run, held on May 13, was the first to feature the Race for Plunkett, a 5/10-kilometre timed run on Tom Taylor trail in Newmarket open to both York Regional Police members and members of the public. Runners were guided to the starting line by 30 Special Olympics athletes who helped carry the Torch of Hope from the Newmarket Community Centre and Lions Hall.

“The athletes participated in the entire event,” said run organizer Constable Melanie Moffatt. “They mingled with participants, took photos with sponsors and reminded everybody of the reason they were running.”

Constable Moffatt alone raised more than $7,000 for Special Olympics.

Special Olympics athlete Madison Bailey-Borges joined the latest York Regional Police recruit class in leading runners through a spirited warm-up stretch. She also delivered the athlete’s oath in front of hundreds at the opening ceremony. Race participants included members of the Newmarket Stingrays Swim Club, students from Langstaff Secondary School, Chief Eric Jolliffe and Deputy Chiefs Tom Carrique and André Crawford.

At the finish line, runners were treated to snacks and prizes from dozens of event sponsors, including more than 600 scones served up by Cobs Bread. The day’s fastest runners, along with the top fundraisers, also received prizes from various York Region businesses.

See more photos on the York Regional Police Flickr feed.

Prescription Drug Awareness

Mon, 11 May 2015 14:30:00 GMT

York Regional Police is helping raise awareness of the public safety threat posed by the abuse of prescription drugs by hosting several drug awareness information sessions at local pharmacies this week.

As a follow up to the May 9 Prescription Drug Drop-Off Day, from May 11 to May 15 York Regional Police officer will be on hand to answer any questions and to distribute drug awareness information at five different locations across the region.

Site locations include:
Shoppers Drug Mart, 1111 Davis Drive, Newmarket on Thursday, May 14 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (#1 District)
Pars Pharmacy, 10171 Yonge Street, Richmond Hill on Monday May 11 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. (#2 District)
Shoppers Drug Mart, 411 The Queensway South, Keswick on Tuesday May 12 from 10 a.m. -12 p.m. (#3 District)
Shoppers Drug Mart, Vaughan Mills Mall 1 Bass Pro Mills Drive, Vaughan on Wednesday, May 13 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. (#4 District)
Shoppers Drug Mart, 8601 Warden Avenue, Markham on Wednesday May 13 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. (#5 District)

Throughout the year, York Regional Police encourages residents of to drop off their unused, unwanted and expired medication to their local pharmacy and designated locations across the region. Residents should call ahead to ensure that their pharmacy is accepting the specific drugs being dropped off. Region of York hazardous waste sites will also accept expired medication. For proper means of disposal and the location of your nearest depot please visit york.ca/waste.

Fighting Crimes Against Children Worldwide

Wed, 06 May 2015 18:00:00 GMT

A joint-forces operation initiated by the York Regional Police Internet Child Exploitation (ICE) Section has led to a global push to put creators, distributors and consumers of child pornography behind bars.

That push has led to 41 arrests and 110 charges laid in North America and hundreds of potential suspects identified across the globe, the public learned at a May 6 press conference.

Seven of those arrests were made in York Region.

"Every child has the right to be nurtured and the right to be safe," said Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Staff Sergeant Frank Goldschmidt. "Child pornography is the sexual abuse of children, every image of child pornography represents a child victim and every trading or transmission of that image represents a re-victimization of that child."

So far, ICE investigators have identified 19 victims ranging from 9 to 15 years old. As the operation, named Project Hydra, continues, York Regional Police and partnering agencies, including OPP, Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigations, INTERPOL and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security will try to identify and arrange assistance for thousands of potential victims, ranging from infants to teens.

The investigation began in April 2014 when York Regional Police learned from the National Child Exploitation Coordination Centre that images of child pornography were being uploaded from a residence in York Region. After executing a search warrant, investigators learned that a young person had uploaded the images through an online social networking application used by offenders around the world.

So far, investigators have sent out more than 350 investigative packages regarding suspects to police services worldwide.

Investigators named the project Hydra after the mythological Greek serpent with many heads. According to myth, whenever a head was cut off, two more would regenerate. During Project Hydra, whenever investigators pursued one suspect, a new collection of potential suspects and victims would emerge, ICE investigators said.

York Regional Police

At the Other End of the Radio: A Communicator's Perspective

2018 Annual Report: Running Down a Dream Job

Revamped recruiting event gives women a glimpse into life as a YRP recruit

Read the rest of the 2018 Annual Report

2018 Annual Report: Anatomy of a 9-1-1 Call

After a man is shot and killed at a Vaughan short-term rental home during a house party, Communications quarterbacks the response.

May 12, 03:34:27 9-1-1 call received

03:35:21 Units dispatched

03:35–3:42 More 9-1-1 calls pour in

03:38:06 – 03:38:35Units notified

03:42 Officers arrive on scene

03:43:11 Dispatch begins perimeter

03:46:20 Officers enter the house

03:57:50–04:01:10Officers make an arrest

04:00:53Homicide Unit notified

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2018 Annual Report: To Serve and Savour

An evening supporting veterans, first responders and their families

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2018 Annual Report: Drug Dealers Sent Packing

Project Cutter targets street-level drug trafficking in #1 District

2018 Annual Report: Building Bridges with the Chippewas of Georgina Island

Detective Josh McCue gives back to the community where he grew up

2018 Annual Report: East Coast Bandits Target Ontario

Police make three arrests and link suspects to interprovincial crime spree

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2018 Annual Report: Moka Caf� Homicide

Three years of persistence sends killer to prison for 50 years

One on one with the lead detective

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2018 Annual Report: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

2018 Annual Report: Community Helps Catch Thornhill Predator

Frontline officer identifies suspect on the street

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2018 Annual Report: Vaughan Drug Trafficking Ring Dismantled

Investigators take down a cocaine-dealing operation, seizing guns, drugs and cash

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2017 Annual Report: Investigators Cash In On Community Assistance

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2017 Annual Report: Project Park'N'Fly

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2017 Annual Report: Cadets 2.0

Read the rest of the 2017 Annual Report

2017 Annual Report: Cracking Down on South-End Criminals

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2017 Annual Report: School is in Session

Our school resource officers and youth education officers have become welcome faces in elementary and high schools across the region

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2017 Annual Report: Road Safety

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2017 Annual Report: Residents Learn to Lock It or Lose It

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2017 Annual Report: Richmond Hill House Robbery Gets Busted Up

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2017 Annual Report: +100 New Recruits

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2017 Annual Report: Citizens Close the Door on Break-and-Enter Thieves

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2017 Annual Report: Training Upgrade

York Regional Police opens new training facility

2017 Annual Report: Project Kronic North

Investigators shut down a cocaine and fentanyl pipeline between York Region and Northern Ontario

What is fentanyl?

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2017 Annual Report: Project Raphael

Fighting human trafficking in transit

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2018 Business Survey

Don't Go Along for the R.I.D.E.

Crime Prevention Month

National Teen Driver Safety Week

Flying the Rainbow Flag

Celebrating Police Week

Working Together to Eliminate Street Racing Activities Everywhere

Getting Ready to Ride

Male Chorus Celebrates Silver Anniversary

A Huge Thank You to Our Volunteers

Celebrating Telecommunicators Week

Fraud Awareness Month - Ticket Scams

May 12, 03:34:27
9-1-1 call received

03:35:21
Units dispatched

03:35–3:42
More 9-1-1 calls pour in

03:38:06 – 03:38:35
Units notified

03:42
Officers arrive on scene

03:57:50–04:01:10
Officers make an arrest

04:00:53
Homicide Unit notified