York Regional Police

Sentencing of Accused in Police-Involved Shooting

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 16:30:00 GMT

A man has been convicted and sentenced to nine years in custody by the Ontario Court of Justice in Newmarket, following a police-involved shooting which occurred in July 2025.

On Thursday, July 17, 2025, at approximately 6:55 p.m., York Regional Police attempted to stop the driver of a stolen vehicle in the area of Kennedy Road and Steeles Avenue East, in the City of Markham. The driver failed to stop and attempted to escape by colliding with police vehicles.

The driver was boxed in by officers in the area of Kennedy Road and Bonis Avenue, in the City of Toronto. The suspect then discharged a firearm at police. One officer discharged their firearm, striking the suspect. The suspect was taken into custody and transported to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

On Friday, March 27, 2026, 31-year-old Kuot AKOL was found guilty of Aggravated Assault of a Peace Officer, Discharge Firearm with Intent, Possession of a Restricted Firearm, Possession of Property Obtained by Crime, Fail to Comply with Release Order and Possess Firearm Contrary to Prohibition Order.

AKOL had previously been released on bail with GPS monitoring for a number of firearms offences committed in the City of Toronto between 2022 and 2023.

In February 2025, just days before his scheduled court appearance for those offences, AKOL removed his GPS ankle monitoring device and a warrant was issued for his arrest. On February 27, 2025, AKOL was convicted and sentenced in absentia by the Ontario Court of Justice in Toronto and received an eight-year sentence.

AKOL has been sentenced to an additional nine years for the York Regional Police charges, to be served consecutively to his existing sentence in Toronto.

“This incident is a stark reminder of the dangers our officers face each and every day,” said Chief Jim MacSween. “Yet again we see a repeat offender carrying an illegal firearm. The risk to the public and officers is unacceptable. We are very pleased to see a significant sentencewhich reflects the gravity of this threat.”

Crime prevention is our shared responsibility: Find up-to-date crime data in York Region on the Community Safety Data Portal, or become a partner in community safety by signing up for the Security Camera Registry today.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
25-236947
April 2, 2026

Update - Suspect Charged Following Seven Commercial Robberies in York Region

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit have identified and charged a suspect in connection with seven robberies across York Region.

On Monday, March 30, 2026, just after midnight, police responded to a robbery at a gas station in the area of Bur Oak Avenue and McCowan Road, in the City of Markham. When they arrived at the scene, officers learned a male suspect entered the gas station, made threats and demands for cash before fleeing the scene with a quantity of currency. There were no reported injuries.

On March 31^st, 2026, in a joint effort with the Peel Regional Police Central Robbery Bureau, the suspect was arrested. The suspect has been charged with seven robberies within York Region, between March 24 and March 30, and is being investigated for at least 19 additional robberies across the Greater Toronto Area.

Charged:

Andre LAWRENCE, 35, of the City of Brampton

Charges:

Robbery x 7
Disguise with Intent x 7
Operation while Prohibited
Dangerous Driving
Fail to Comply with Undertaking
Stunt Driving

At the time of the arrest Andre LAWRENCE was on an undertaking for an unrelated offence.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Hold-Up Unit by calling 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7441. Anonymous tips can be sent to Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS or by visiting www.1800222tips.com.

Prepared by: Constable Alison McCully
26-107611
April 1, 2026

Command Post Deployments

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 19:00:00 GMT

You may notice York Regional Police officers in your neighbourhood in the coming days.

We are proactively increasing patrols and deploying the YRP Command Post at strategic locations across the region, as members of our community observe Passover.

This means you may see officers near places of worship, community centres or other gathering places, and in your neighbourhood. Officers on patrol and stationed at the Command Post will be available to answer questions, take reports and address any concerns from residents.

York Regional Police continues to work directly with community groups and faith leaders to support local events, services and celebrations. We are in constant collaboration with community safety, law enforcement and intelligence partners at the municipal, provincial and federal levels, proactively monitoring the situation with a focus on preventing hate-motivated activity.

Hate, bigotry and violence have no place in York Region.

If you experience a hate crime or bias incident, please contact police immediately. In an emergency, or if you see a crime in progress, dial 9-1-1.

For non-emergencies, call police at 1-866-876-5423.

Location

Dates and times

JCC Vaughan Jewish Community Centre

9600 Bathurst St, Maple

Wednesday, April 1

12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Garnet A Williams Community Centre

501 Clark Ave. W., Vaughan

Thursday, April 2

12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Promenade Mall

1 Promenade Cir., Thornhill

Friday, April 3

12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

JCC Vaughan Jewish Community Centre

9600 Bathurst St, Maple

Saturday, April 4

12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Garnet A Williams Community Centre

501 Clark Ave. W., Vaughan

Sunday, April 5

12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Promenade Mall

1 Promenade Cir., Thornhill

Monday, April 6

12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

JCC Vaughan Jewish Community Centre

9600 Bathurst St, Maple

Tuesday, April 7

12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Garnet A Williams Community Centre

501 Clark Ave. W., Vaughan

Wednesday, April 8

12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Promenade Mall

1 Promenade Cir., Thornhill

Thursday, April 9

12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Public Warning of Cameras Used for Scouting Residential Break and Enters

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 17:00:00 GMT

York Regional Police is warning the public after two incidents in which cameras were used to scout residences prior to committing residential break and enters.

Two incidents were reported in Vaughan after cameras and battery packs were located on residential properties, disguised with camouflage. The cameras were hidden near trees and bushes on the properties. A review of the footage revealed the devices were placed to record homeowners’ routines, allowing suspects to scout the properties before committing break and enters.

Homeowners are encouraged to be aware of this crime technique and to report any suspicious people, items, or activity to police.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police #4 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7445, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.

Visit our Community Safety Data Portal for complete stats and crime data within York Region. Crime prevention is our shared responsibility. Learn more about Operation Streetview.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
26-99487 / 25-299676
March 30, 2026

Shots Fired at Home in Georgina

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Firearms Investigations Team are appealing for the public’s assistance following a shooting at a residence in the Town of Georgina.

On Sunday, March 29, 2026, just before 5:00 a.m., police responded to a weapons call on Larch Lane, in the area of Highway 48 and Cronsberry Road. When officers arrived, they found a house and vehicle were damaged as a result of gunfire. Through investigation it was determined this occurred at approximately 2:10 a.m.

No injuries were reported.

At this time, no suspect or suspect vehicle information is available.

Investigators believe the house was the intended target of the shooting, and there is no ongoing threat to public safety.

Investigators are appealing to anyone who may have surveillance video, and to anyone who may have captured dashcam video on the roadways around the area at the time of the shooting to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Firearms Investigations Team by calling 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7817. Anonymous tips can be sent to Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS or visiting www.1800222tips.com.

Prepared by: Constable Alison McCully
26-106674
March 30, 2026

Appeal for Witnesses Following Commercial Robberies in York Region

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 16:30:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit are appealing for witnesses following seven commercial robberies which occurred in York Region.

Investigators are also looking into six additional commercial robberies across the region involving a suspect matching the same description.

March 24, 2026, at approximately 11:30 a.m., at a money loan establishment located in the area of Yonge Street and Major Mackenzie Drive in City of Richmond Hill.
March 25, 2026, at approximately 7:25 a.m., at a gas station located in the area of Woodbine Avenue and Yorktech Drive, Markham.
March 25, 2026, at approximately 7:50 a.m., at a gas station located in the area of 16^th Avenue and Ninth Line, Markham.
March 28, 2026, at approximately 7:15 p.m., at a gas station located in the area of Highway 50 and Langstaff Road, Markham.
March 29, 2026, at approximately 8:15 p.m., at a gas station located in the area of Steeles Avenue and Dufferin Street in the City of Vaughan.
March 30, 2026 at approximately 2:25 a.m., at a gas station located in the area of Major Mackenzie Drive and McCowan Road, Markham.

The suspect is described as a male, 6’ tall, thin build. He was seen wearing a grey toque, dark shirt, with a black long sleeve underneath, black pants, black gloves and grey footwear. He also appeared to be using a white shirt as a mask.

These locations of these incidents are in areas with heavy foot and vehicle traffic. Police are appealing to anyone who may have seen something suspicious, or to anyone with dashcam that was in the area to come forward. Anyone with information is asked to call the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6630, or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. To leave an anonymous tip online, visit www.1800222tips.com.

Prepared by: Constable Alison McCully
26-100684 / 101623 / 101646 / 106279 / 107412 / 107611 / 107622
March 30, 2026

Appeal for Witnesses After Serious Collision in Markham

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 14:30:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Major Collision Investigation Unit are appealing for witnesses following a two-vehicle collision in the City of Markham.

On Friday, March 27, 2026, at 4:50 p.m., police responded to a serious collision involving a Mercedes and a Subaru near the intersection of Major Mackenzie Drive and Stonebridge Drive. One vehicle crossed over the centre median and struck the other vehicle head-on.

The driver of the Subaru was transported to hospital with life-threatening injuries. Two children in the vehicle were also transported to hospital, one with life-threatening injuries and one with minor injuries.

The driver of the Mercedes was transported to hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries.

The investigation is ongoing.

Investigators are appealing to any witnesses who have not yet spoken with police, and to anyone who may have dashcam footage from the area around the time of the collision, to please come forward.

Video can be uploaded through this link: https://yrp.ca.evidence.com/axon/community-request/public/26-104981 or by scanning this QR code:

Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Major Collision Investigation Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6630, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. Anonymous tips can also be sent online at www.1800222tips.com.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
26-104981
March 30, 2026

Opportunity to Claim Items Recovered in Project Payday

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 13:45:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Integrated Property Crime Task Force are releasing images of stolen property recovered as a result of Project Payday.

Project Payday began as a continued investigation into the trafficking of property stolen from residential break-and-enters during Project Lone Wolf. Project Lone Wolf ran from October 2024 until November 2025.

On March 19, 2026, 73-year-old Tamashwar SINGH of the Town of Caledon was arrested and charged for Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000 for the Purpose of Trafficking.

Numerous items have been recovered. A Dropbox folder has been created with photos of the items that have not yet been returned to their owners. Anyone who was a victim of a residential break and enter between October 2025 and February 2026 is asked to please review the photos and contact police if any of the items belong to you.

There will be a process to verify ownership before collecting any property.

Images of the stolen property can be found HERE.

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call the York Regional Police Integrated Property Crime Task Force at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7232, or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.

York Regional Police is reminding the public to always maintain the appearance that their residences are occupied. Follow these six steps to protect your home from a break and enter.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
25-278557 / 26-94313
March 30, 2026

One Suspect Charged, Two Outstanding after Robbery in Markham

Fri, 27 Mar 2026 17:45:00 GMT

Investigators with York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit have charged one suspect and are seeking two additional suspects in connection with a robbery which occurred in the City of Markham.

On Wednesday, March 25, 2026, at approximately 8:40 p.m., police responded to the report of a robbery in the area of 14^th Avenue and Birchmount Road. The victim was walking to his vehicle when he was approached by two suspects who demanded his satchel. A struggle ensued, the victim was assaulted and his satchel was stolen. The suspects fled in a silver sport utility vehicle being driven by a third suspect.

The victim was transported to hospital with serious, but non-life-threatening injuries.

Through investigation, officers identified one suspect. On March 26, 2026, a search warrant was executed at a residence in Whitby and the suspect was arrested and charged. Police recovered a quantity of currency.

Charged:

Alden NUNES, 46, of the Town of Whitby

Charges:

Robbery
Disguise with Intent
Possession of Property Obtained by Crime over $5,000

Investigators are still seeking two unidentified suspects.

One suspect is described as male, Black, approximately 5’10”, with a medium build. He was seen wearing a black hoodie, black Air Force 1 shoes and a mask.

There is no description for the suspect driving the suspect vehicle.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Hold Up Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6630. Anonymous tips can be made by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or by visiting www.1800222tips.com.

Prepared by: Constable Alison McCully
26-102625
March 27, 2026

Newmarket Man Sentenced to One-Year House Arrest in Hate-Motivated Incident

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 19:45:00 GMT

Earlier today, a man convicted of uttering threats, including threatening to blow up a mosque in Newmarket, was sentenced in the Ontario Superior Court of Justice in Newmarket.

Donald CAMERON was arrested on September 4, 2025, after making verbal threats toward Muslims, including utterances of blowing up a mosque in Newmarket, and threatening to kill his neighbour who is Muslim.

CAMERON, of the Town of Newmarket, pleaded guilty to two counts of Uttering Threats on March 18, 2026. He was sentenced to a one-year Conditional Sentence Order in Newmarket on March 26, 2026.

In the ruling, the Justice invoked Section 718 of the Criminal Code of Canada, which recognizes hate motivation as an aggravating factor, when determining the sentence.

In accordance with the Conditional Sentence Order, CAMERON will be on house arrest for two-thirds of the sentence and will be monitored electronically for the entire duration of the order.

Among other conditions, the order prohibits CAMERON to live in Newmarket, or be within 100 metres of any mosque in Canada. Following the year-long Conditional Sentence Order, CAMERON will serve three years of probation.

“Hate has no place in York Region, and any act of Islamophobia is both disturbing and unacceptable,” said York Regional Police Chief Jim MacSween. “We remain steadfast in our commitment to combating all forms of hate, bigotry, and intolerance and we will continue to prioritize public safety by thoroughly investigating any instance of hate in our region.”

“On behalf of the York Regional Police Executive Leadership Team, I extend my gratitude to the members of the Hate Crime Prevention Unit, whose diligent work led to today’s sentencing.”

Prepared by: Constable Jamie Dickson
25-294582
March 26, 2026

Shots Fired at Home in the City of Vaughan

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 19:15:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Firearms Investigations Team are appealing for public assistance following a shooting at a residence in the City of Vaughan.

On Wednesday, March 25, 2026, just before 1 a.m., police responded to reports of gunshots at a residence in the area of Clubhouse Road and Pine Valley Drive. When officers arrived, multiple shell casings were located and the house had been damaged by gunfire.

There were no injuries reported.

Two suspects were seen fleeing the scene in a white sedan. The sedan was then involved in a collision and abandoned at the intersection of Pine Valley Drive and Hayhoe Avenue.

Officers located and arrested one suspect and recovered a firearm.

BOWEN, Ahkari, 18, of the City of Toronto was charged with:
-Discharge a Firearm into or at a place in a Reckless Manner
-Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000
-Possession of a Prohibited Device or Ammunition knowing its Possession is Unauthorized
-Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm in Motor Vehicle,
-Unauthorized Possession of a Prohibited device or Ammunition

The second suspect, who is still outstanding, is described as a Black male, in his mid-20’s, wearing a zippered white hoodie.

Police believe that this is a targeted shooting and there is no ongoing risk to public safety.

Investigators are seeking any video footage from security cameras in that neighbourhood or dashcams on roadways in the area at the time of the shooting.

Prepared by: Constable Alison McCully
26-101475
March 26, 2026

Shots Fired at Home in the City of Vaughan Two Days after an Arson Attempt

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 18:45:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Firearms Investigations Team are appealing for public assistance following a shooting at a residence in the City of Vaughan two days after an attempted vehicle arson at the same residence.

On Wednesday, March 25, 2026, just before 9:30 a.m., police responded to reports of gunshots in the area of Kleinburg Summit Way and First Nations Trail. When officers arrived, they observed shell casings in the driveway of a residence. A black sport utility vehicle (SUV) was observed fleeing the area shortly after the shots were fired.

This incident follows an attempted vehicle arson at the same residence on Monday, March 23, 2026 at approximately 2:50 a.m.. During that incident, a dark-coloured sedan was observed stopping on the street in front of the house. Two suspects exited their vehicle, approached and poured gasoline on a vehicle parked in the driveway. The attempted to ignite the vehicle was unsuccessful.

No injuries were reported in either incident.

Suspect #1: Male, black hooded sweatshirt, black sweatpants, black shoes.

Suspect #2: Male, light complexion, red bandana, black hooded sweater, white t-shirt, black sweatpants, black and grey shoes.

Investigators are working to determine whether the two incidents are connected and are asking anyone with information to come forward. Police are particularly interested in obtaining video surveillance or dash-camera footage from the area that may have captured the roadways around the time of the incident.

Anyone who has information but has not yet spoken with police is urged to contact the York Regional Police Firearms Investigations Team by calling 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7817. Anonymous tips can be sent to Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS or by visiting www.1800222tips.com.

Prepared by: Constable Alison McCully
26-99932 / 26-101753
March 25, 2026

Suspect Charged for Residential Break-and-Enters in Markham

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police #5 District Criminal Investigations Bureau have charged a suspect in connection with nine residential break-and-enters in the City of Markham.

Between November 28, 2025, and March 20, 2026, the suspect committed numerous residential break-and-enters during the evening hours in Markham. The suspect forced entry into residences that appeared to be unoccupied and targeted bedrooms for jewelry and designer items.

On March 24, 2026, officers executed two search warrants at residences in the City of Toronto and arrested the suspect.

The suspect vehicle was a black Infinity G37 and police are urging anyone who may have seen a suspicious vehicle matching this description to contact police.

The suspect had been seen in the area of the break-ins without a mask and investigators believe there may be additional victims and witnesses who have not yet spoken to police. Anyone with information is asked to contact investigators.

Charged:

Neville Ricky YOUNG, 39, of the City of Toronto

Charges:

Break and Enter Commit x6
Break and Enter with Intent x3
Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000 x4

The investigation is ongoing and investigators anticipate laying additional charges. Anyone with information is asked to call the York Regional Police #5 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7545, or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.

York Regional Police is reminding the public to always maintain the appearance that their residences are occupied. Follow these six steps to protect your home from a break-and-enter.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
26-37432
March 25, 2026

Update - Charges Laid in Serious Markham Hit-and-Run

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 16:30:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Major Collision Investigation Unit have charged a suspect in connection with a serious hit-and-run collision in the City of Markham.

On Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 3:41p.m., police responded to reports of a pedestrian struck at the intersection of Denison Street and Featherstone Avenue. The victim was located 50 metres east of the intersection after being struck and carried on the hood of the vehicle. She was transported to a trauma centre, where she remains in serious condition with life-altering injuries.

On Friday, March 20, 2026, officers arrested and charged the suspect. Three search warrants were executed at residences associatedto him in Richmond Hill, Oshawa and Toronto. As a result, investigators seized the suspect vehicle and a quantity of controlled substances.

Investigators believe thesuspect took steps to conceal his identity and to repair damage to the vehicle. Investigators are releasing a photo of the suspect and are appealing to anyone who sold parts to him or who inadvertently performed repairs on the vehicle, to come forward and assist with the investigation.

Charged:

Nathan Kumar PERSAUD, 29, of the Town of Oshawa

Charges:

Dangerous Operation Cause Bodily Harm
Dangerous Operation
Failure to Stop After Accident Resulting in Bodily Harm
Trafficking Opioid
Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking x2

Investigators are reminding the public that anyone who assists the suspect in concealing, repairing or altering the vehicle to avoid detection is committing a criminal offence of Accessory After the Fact and may face charges. This includes any person who performs or arranges body work, paint work, or mechanical repairs intended to hide damage caused in this collision.

Investigators are urging anyone who witnessed the collision, or who may have dashcam footage from the area at the time and has not yet spoke with police, to come forward. Anyone who is afraid to contact police but has information is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers anonymously.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Major Collision Investigation Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7704, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. Anonymous tips can also be sent online at www.1800222tips.com.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
26-60600
March 25, 2026

Multiple Suspects Sought Following Richmond Hill Jewelry Store Robbery

Mon, 23 Mar 2026 16:15:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit are seeking at least three suspects following a daytime smash-and-grab robbery at a jewelry store in the City of Richmond Hill.

On Friday, March 20, 2026, at 5:39 p.m., police responded to a commercial robbery in the area of Yonge Street and Carrville Road. Three suspects entered the store wearing masks and carrying hammers. Once inside, they smashed display cases and stole a quantity of jewelry.

The group quickly fled the area to an awaiting dark-coloured sedan.

There were no injuries.

The suspect vehicle has since been recovered and was found to have fake licence plates affixed to it.

Suspect #1: Male, Black, mid to late teens with a thin build. He was last seen wearing a black mask, a black hoodie, black track pants, black sneakers, black gloves and was carrying a red duffle-style backpack

Suspect #2: Male, Black, mid to late teens with a thin build. He was last seen wearing a black mask, black hoodie with a white horizontal stripe, black track pants, black sneakers and black gloves.

Suspect #3: Male, Black, mid to late teens with a thin build. He was last seen wearing a black mask, black hoodie with a white horizontal stripe, grey track pants, black sneakers and black gloves.

A suspect description of the getaway driver was not obtained.

Police are appealing to anyone who may have seen something suspicious, or to anyone with dashcam that was in the area, to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit by calling 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6630. Anonymous tips can be sent to Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS or by visiting www.1800222tips.com.

Prepared by: Constable Kevin Nebrija
26-96510
March 23, 2026

Update - Second Suspect Arrested in Vaughan Homicide

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 19:00:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Homicide Unit would like to thank the media, the public and the Calgary Police Fugitive Team for their assistance in locating a second suspect wanted in connection with a homicide in the City of Vaughan.

On Monday, January 26, 2026, at approximately 1 p.m., officers were called to a commercial plaza in the area of Winges Road and Rowntree Dairy Road after receiving reports of shots fired. When officers arrived, a male was located in front of a business with multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported to hospital where he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased.

On Thursday, March 19, 2026, Isaiah Thomas BADGER, 19, was located by the Calgary Police Fugitive Team.

His charges include First-Degree Murder and Arson Causing Damage to Property.

York Regional Police would also like to thank the Toronto Police Service, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police E Division, and K Division, the Calgary Police Service, the Edmonton Police Service, the Vancouver Police Service, the Abbottsford Police Service and the Surrey Police Service for assisting in this investigation.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Homicide Unit by calling 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7865, or email the Homicide Unit at homicide@yrp.ca. Anonymous tips can be sent to Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS or visiting www.1800222tips.com.

Prepared by: Constable Kevin Nebrija
26-30502
March 20, 2026

Aurora Man Charged with Sexual Assault

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Special Victims Unit are appealing for additional victims and witnesses after an Aurora man was charged in connection with sexual assaults in the Town of Aurora.

On Thursday, March 19, 2026, between 12 p.m. and 4 p.m., the suspect was in the area of Yonge Street and Wellington Street. The suspect approached three separate victims, who were unknown to him, and touched them for a sexual purpose.

Officers attended the area and the suspect was arrested a short distance away.

Investigators believe there may be additional victims. The suspect’s photograph has been released to encourage anyone with information to come forward.

Due to the location and time of day, investigators believe there may be additional witnesses who have not yet spoken to police. Anyone with information is asked to contact investigators.

Charged:

Ethan SMITH, 27, Town of Aurora

Charges:

Sexual Assault x3

A sexual assault includes any non-consensual contact of a sexual nature. York Regional Police would like to encourage anyone who feels they may have been a victim of a sexual assault to come forward and report the incident to police. There is no statute of limitations for sexual offences and offenders can be prosecuted well after the date of the offence.

If someone is not ready to report, however is seeking support, please contact York Region Victim Servicesor the Women’s Support Network . Additional resources and information can be found on our website .

Anyone with information is asked to call the York Regional Police Special Victims Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7071 or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com .

Visit our Community Safety Data Portalfor complete stats and crime data within York Region. Crime prevention is our shared responsibility. Learn more about Operation Streetview .

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
26-94786
March 20, 2026

Suspects for Identification Following Robbery in Markham

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 14:45:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying suspects following an armed robbery in the City of Markham.

On Thursday, March 19, 2026, at approximately 2:50 a.m., officers responded to reports of a robbery inside a business in the area of Woodbine Avenue and 14th Avenue. Three suspects, armed with firearms, entered the business and forced patrons into a single room. The suspects threatened the victims and demanded cash and cell phones.

The suspects fled in a waiting dark-coloured sedan, southbound on Woodbine Avenue.

There were no reported injuries.

Suspect #1: Male, Black, thin build, wearing a black hooded jacket, black pants, black shoes, black Nike gloves and a black balaclava. He was carrying a handgun.

Suspect #2: Male, white, thin build, wearing a blue hooded sweater, black pants, white shoes, black gloves and a black balaclava. He was carrying a handgun.

Suspect #3: Male, Black, thin build, wearing a black jacket, a dark blue hooded sweater, black pants, black shoes, one black glove on his right hand and a black balaclava. He was carrying a grey backpack.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6630, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. Anonymous tips can also be sent online at www.1800222tips.com.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
26-94255
March 20, 2026

Update - Missing Vulnerable Man from Georgina Located

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 11:30:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police #3 District Criminal Investigations Bureau would like to thank the media and the public for their assistance in locating the missing 60-year-old from the Town of Georgina.

Graham has been located.

Please remove his photo from circulation.

Prepared by: Constable Kevin Nebrija
26-87155
March 20, 2026

Charges Laid in January Shooting in Vaughan

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Charges have been laid by the York Regional Police Firearms Investigations Team (FIT) in connection with a shooting at a residence in the City of Vaughan, which occurred in January.

On Sunday, January 18, 2026, shortly before 5 a.m., police responded to reports of gunshots in the area of Madeira Avenue and Genoa Road. When they arrived at the scene, officers located several bullet holes in a motor vehicle parked in a driveway.

Investigators determined at least two suspects were involved in the shooting.

No injuries were reported.

On Sunday, February 15, 2026, the Toronto Police Service arrested one suspect and recovered the firearm as a result of an unrelated investigation.

Through this ongoing collaborative investigation between the York Regional Police and Toronto Police Service, FIT has identified the Shane HARTY as responsible for the January shooting.

At least one suspect remains outstanding.

Charged:

Shane HARTY, 27, of the City of Toronto

Charges:

Possession of Restricted Firearm with Ammunition
Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
Possession of a Firearm Knowing its Possess is Unlawful
Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm in a Motor Vehicle
Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose
Discarded a Firearm into a Place in a Reckless Manger
Possession of Property Obtained by Crime
Mischief to Property Over $5,000

The investigation is ongoing.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
26-20627
March 19, 2026

Update - 1 Suspect Charged, 3 Outstanding in Vaughan Armed Home Invasion

Wed, 18 Mar 2026 15:15:00 GMT

Charges have been laid against a male suspect after he was shot during an armed home invasion in the City of Vaughan.

On Tuesday, March 17, 2026, at approximately 12:50 a.m., police responded to reports of a shooting at a residence in the area of Carrville Woods Circle and Crimson Forest Drive. When they arrived at the scene, police learned multiple suspects, armed with at least one firearm, forced their way into the residence.

An occupant of the home accessed a legally owned, and properly stored firearm, and discharged it toward the suspects, causing them to flee.

The suspects were seen getting into a black pick-up truck which fled the scene before police arrived.

The occupants of the home were not physically injured.

A few hours later, York Regional Police was notified a male had been dropped off at a Toronto-area hospital with a gunshot wound. Investigators determined he had been shot during the home invasion and was dropped off shortly after it occurred.

The male has been identified as Trestin CASSANOVA-ALMAN, 24, of no fixed address. He is charged with Robbery with a Firearm and Disguise with Intent in relation to the home invasion. He is also charged with Breach of Probation Order, as he was on an outstanding probation order for unrelated offences at the time of the home invasion.

He remains in police custody in hospital, in stable condition.

CASSANOVA-ALMAN is known to police and wanted by multiple police agencies, including York Regional Police, for numerous violent offences. In December 2025, CASSANOVA-ALMAN was identified as being wanted in relation to Project Wrangler, a joint-forces operation which dismantled a violent criminal group operating in Ontario and Quebec.

The three other suspects in the home invasion remain outstanding.

The investigation is ongoing.

Prepared by: Constable Kevin Nebrija
26-91695
March 18, 2026

Suspect Arrested, Three Outstanding After Armed Home Invasion in Vaughan

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 17:00:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit have arrested one suspect and are seeking three others following an armed home invasion in the City of Vaughan.

An occupant of the home accessed a legally owned, and properly stored firearm, and discharged it toward the suspects.

The suspects were seen getting into a black pick-up truck which fled the scene before police arrived.

The occupants of the home were not physically injured.

A video of the home invasion can be seen here: https://youtu.be/Q_muRe3H460

At approximately 3:15 a.m., York Regional Police was notified a male had been dropped off at a Toronto-area hospital with a gunshot wound. It was determined the male had been dropped off shortly after the home invasion occurred.

Investigators with the Hold-Up Unit have since confirmed the male was shot during the reported home invasion.

Charges are pending against the male suspect. He remains in police custody in hospital, in stable condition.

Following evidence gathered at the scene by investigators, charges have not been laid against the occupant of the home who discharged the firearm.

The investigation is ongoing.

Prepared by: Constable Kevin Nebrija
26-91695
March 17, 2026

Suspect Charged for Residential Break and Enters in Newmarket

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 14:45:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police #1 District Criminal Investigations Bureau have charged a suspect in connection with overnight residential break-ins and thefts from vehicles in the Town of Newmarket.

Between February 15 and March 13, 2026, the suspect committed entries into unlocked houses and motor vehicles overnight in residential neighbourhoods around Prospect Street and Gorham Street. The suspect targeted wallets and fled when confronted by home owners.

Investigators have determined the suspect gained access to at least three residences and committed thefts from at least two motor vehicles.

The suspect was identified charged on March 13, 2026.

York Regional police is releasing a photo of the suspect as investigators believe there may be additional victims. Anyone with information is encouraged to come forward. The suspect was seen wearing a very distinctive red and black puffer-style jacket.

Charged:

Hubert RICHARDS, 26, of Newmarket

Charges:

Break and Enter Commit x2
Break and Enter with Intent
Theft Under $5,000 x2
Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5,000 x2
Possession of Break-in Instruments
Breach of Probation x3

At the time of the incident, RICHARDS was on probation for unrelated offences.

The investigation is ongoing and investigators anticipate laying additional charges. Anyone with information is asked to call the York Regional Police #1 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7142, or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.

York Regional Police is reminding the public to always maintain the appearance that their residences are occupied. Follow these six steps to protect your home from a break and enter.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
26-86830 / 85588 / 85547 887390
March 16, 2026

Appeal for Suspect Identification in a March 2025 Aurora Home Invasion

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 14:15:00 GMT

A year after a March 2025 Aurora home invasion, with no significant leads to date, investigators with the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit are re-releasing images of a male suspect and seeking the public’s assistance in identifying him.

On Thursday, March 6, 2025, at approximately 11:20 a.m., police were called to a residence in the area of Murray Drive and Kennedy Street after receiving reports of a home invasion. The female victim told officers she answered the door after someone was knocking aggressively. As the front door opened, a male suspect forced his way into the residence and attempted to restrain her.

A second victim, who was also at the residence, attempted to intervene and was violently assaulted.

The suspect fled the residence in an unknown direction on foot, without making any demands for valuables or stealing anything.

Both victims suffered serious, but non-life-threatening injuries.

Images of the male suspect were obtained from security cameras at a store, in the area of Yonge Street and Murray Drive, on the day of the offence.

Suspect:

Male, white
20 to 30-years-old
Approximately 6’ and weighing around 175 lbs. to 180 lbs.
Wearing a black balaclava, with two eye-holes and a separate mouth hole, at the time of the offence. Also wearing a midweight black puffy coat, black pants and black boot-like footwear

York Regional Police would like to warn the community to always know who is at your door before opening it. This can be done from a window where the person would not be able to see you, for example, a second floor or living room window. If you can, use security cameras or peepholes to verify who is at the door before opening it.

If you feel unsafe, trust your instincts and call 9-1-1 right away.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6630. Anonymous tips can be sent to Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS or by visiting www.1800222tips.com.

Prepared by: Constable Kevin Nebrija
25-73521
March 16, 2026

Childrens Group Leader Charged In Historical Sexual Assault

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 18:00:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Special Victims Investigation Unit are appealing for additional victims after a Georgina man was charged in connection with several historic sexual assaults in York Region.

Earlier this year several victims came forward to report details of sexual assaults dating back to the 1970s. At the time of the assaults, the victims were all under the age of 16-years-old.

On Wednesday March 11, 2026 investigators charged a 73-year-man from Georgina.

Aubrey Wayne STENTIFORD, commonly known as Wayne worked as a leader with the 6^th Newmarket Boy Scouts in Newmarket from the early 1970s until approximately 1976. At the time of the incidents STENTIFORD also had connections to the Kawartha Lakes Region.

In addition to his work with Boy Scouts Canada, STENTIFORD was a School Bus Driver in York Region up until the time of his arrest.

Investigators are releasing his photo as they believe there to be additional victims. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact police.

Charged:

Aubrey Wayne STENTIFORD, 73, of Georgina

Charges:

Indecent Assault of Male x 4
Gross Indecency x 4

A sexual assault includes any non-consensual contact of a sexual nature. York Regional Police encourages victims to report incidents of sexual assault, including historical offences. There is no statute of limitations for sexual offences and offenders can be prosecuted well after the date of the offence.

If someone is not ready to report, however is seeking support, please contact York Region Victim Services victimservices-york.org, the Cedar Centre http://www.cedarcentre.ca/ or the Women’s Support Network womenssupportnetwork.ca. Additional resources and information can also be found on our website http://www.yrp.ca/en/services/resources/sexualassaultsurvivorsguide.pdf

Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Special Victims Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7075, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or online at www.1800222tips.com.

Visit our Community Safety Data Portal for complete stats and crime data within York Region. Crime prevention is our shared responsibility. Learn more about Operation Streetview.

Prepared by: Constable Alison McCully
26-32727 / 43596 / 50369
March 13, 2026

Two Suspects Charged One Outstanding after Gold Transaction Theft

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 17:45:00 GMT

Investigations with the #5 District Criminal Investigations Bureau have charged two suspects and are seeking an additional suspect in connection with a theft which occurred during a private gold exchange in the City of Markham.

On February 22, 2026, the victim met with two suspects to sell gold bars, valued at approximately $65,000. During the transaction the suspects stole the gold and fled in a Land Rover. While making their escape, the suspects struck another vehicle.

Through the investigation, officers identified the primary suspect. On March 11, 2026, a search warrant was executed at a residence in Oakville, where officers recovered a forgery station and forged documents including passports, business cheques, Ontario driver’s licences, counterfeit cash, and counterfeit credit cards. Officers also located high-end designer handbags, jewelry and watches with an estimated value of more than $180,000.

As a result, two suspects were charged.

As a list of charges can be seen below.

Investigators are still seeking a third unidentified suspect. He is described as male, Asian, thin build, 5’5”, with purple hair. He was last seen wearing an oversized blue and white sweater and white shoes with bright laces.

York Regional Police reminds the community that meeting unknown individuals to exchange valuable items carries a significant risk. These crimes are often preventable when transactions are done through legitimate financial institutions or in safe, monitored locations.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
26-64155 / 84192
March 12, 2026

Update - Charges Laid in Person-To-Person Money Exchange Robberies

Fri, 13 Mar 2026 17:30:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit have charged a suspect in relation to robberies targeting people meeting strangers to privately exchange currency. In recent months, officers have responded to several incidents where victims arranged foreign-currency transactions through online platforms or community groups, only to be targeted and robbed during the meetup.

Between October 2025 and January 2026, the suspect arranged six separate currency exchanges in which the victims were robbed and one in which cash was stolen without violence. The suspect would speak with the victims on the phone, by text and in person in order to convince them to attend the location where they were then robbed by unidentified suspects.

On March 12, 2026, the suspect responsible for organizing the currency exchanges was charged.

Fang LIN, 35, of the City of Markham, is charged with six counts of Conspiracy to Commit Robbery and one count of Theft Over $5,0000.

Investigators believe there may be additional victims. The suspect’s photo has been released to encourage anyone with information to come forward.

York Regional Police reminds the community that meeting unknown individuals to exchange large amounts of cash carries a significant risk.

Police are urging the public to take the following precautions:

Avoid private cash-for-currency exchanges with strangers. Use banks or licensed financial institutions.
Never bring large sums of money to unfamiliar locations
If a meeting is necessary, choose a well-lit public space or a designated police ‘Safe Exchange Zone’.
Trust your instincts. If something feels unsafe or the offer seems too good to be true, cancel the transaction.
Report suspicious activity or attempted scams to police immediately.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
25-372044 / 394628 / 403058
March 12, 2026

Newmarket Man Facing Indecent Act and Voyeurism Charges

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 15:45:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police #1 District Criminal Investigations Bureau have charged a man with numerous sexual offences following an investigation in the Town of Newmarket.

On Monday, March 2, 2026, it was reported that an adult male was at a public library in Newmarket the day prior. While there, at approximately 3:30 p.m., the male was observed holding his cellular phone and exposing himself while committing an indecent act.

On Wednesday, March 11, 2026, a search warrant was executed at a residence in Newmarket. As a result, a 37-year-old man was charged.

Investigators are releasing a photo of the accused as they believe there are additional victims.

Charged:

Ryan TOMS, 37, of the Town of Newmarket

Charges:

Commit an Indecent Act in a Public Place
Expose Genitals to a Person Under 16 Years of Age for a Sexual Purpose
Voyeurism
Breach of Probation

Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police #1 District Criminal Investigations Bureau by calling 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7141. Anonymous tips can be sent to Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS or by visiting www.1800222tips.com.

Prepared by: Constable Kevin Nebrija
25-73524
March 12, 2026

Appeal for Victims in Aurora Theft Investigation

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 15:15:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police #1 District Criminal Investigations Bureau have charged a woman in connection with multiple thefts in the Town of Aurora.

On February 22, 2026, officers responded to reports of a theft at a residence in Aurora. The victims told police they had hired a nanny in 2025. During the course of her employment, several pieces of jewellery and a large sum of Canadian currency went missing.

A month later on March 6 and 7, 2026 two additional victims notified police that several items including jewellery and Canadian currency had been stolen from their home. In this incident the suspect had been hired through a social media platform to clean their house.

On March 10, 2026, 36-year-old Jessie GOULET of the Town of Whichurch-Stouffville was arrested and charged in connection with both incidents.

Charged:

Jessie GOULET, 36, of the Town of Whichurch-Stouffville

Charges:

Theft Over $5000 x 3
Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000 x 3

Investigators are releasing images of the accused as they believe there may be additional victims. Anyone with information related to this incident is urged to contact police.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police #1 District Criminal Investigations Bureau by calling 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7545. Anonymous tips can be sent to Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS or by visiting www.1800222tips.com.

Prepared by: Constable Alison McCully
26-63802 / 79200 / 80029
March 12, 2026

Appeal for Witnesses After Attempted Commercial Robbery in Vaughan

Thu, 12 Mar 2026 14:30:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit are appealing for witnesses following an attempted commercial robbery in the City of Vaughan.

On Friday, March 6, 2026, at approximately 2:20 p.m., officers responded to the area of Chrislea Road and Jevlan Drive after receiving reports that four suspicious males in ski masks were attempting to enter a jewelry store. The suspects were unable to gain entry and fled in a waiting white Nissan Kicks being driving by a fifth suspect.

No robbery occurred and no injuries were reported.

All five suspects are described as male, wearing dark clothing.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
26-78834
March 12, 2026

Dump Truck Driver Blows Three Times Legal Limit Following Daytime Collision

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 13:15:00 GMT

A dump truck driver has been charged with impaired-related criminal driving offences after causing a collision in the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville.

On Monday, March 9, 2026, at approximately before 10:45 a.m., officers responded to a collision in the area of Bloomington Road East and Ninth Line. At the scene officers learned a dump truck had rear-ended a vehicle at the intersection. The driver was arrested at the scene for Operation While Impaired by Alcohol.

The driver of the other vehicle suffered minor injuries.

Breath samples submitted by the driver of the dump truck were found to be more than three times the legal limit.

Charged:

34-year-old male from the City of Brampton

Charge:

Impaired Operation - Alcohol
Operation with a Blood Alcohol Concentration 80 Plus

York Regional Police is not giving up. Together with our partners and our community, we continue the fight against impaired driving. If you see a driver that you suspect is impaired, call 9-1-1.

We will respond to these calls through our Safe Roads: Your Call program.

If you consume alcoholic beverages or drugs, do not get behind the wheel. Ensure you always have a plan to get home safely.

Road safety is everyone’s responsibility.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
March 11, 2026
26-81970

Suspect for Identification Following Unsuccessful Bank Robbery in Markham

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 16:30:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Hold-Up are appealing for witnesses following an attempted bank robbery in the City of Markham.

On Monday, March 9, 2026, at approximately 11:40 a.m., police responded to an attempted robbery at a bank in the area of Highway 7 and Birchmount Road. At the scene, officers learned a male suspect entered the bank and gave the teller a note demanding money and indicating it was a robbery.

When a second teller walked over, the suspect fled on foot empty-handed.

No physical injuries were reported.

The suspect is described as male with a dark complexion. He was last seen wearing a grey Puma hoodie with white stripes on the sleeves, grey gloves, a white medical mask and black running shoes. He was also seen wearing black track pants with a red and white stripe on the thigh and red squares on both knees.

Police are appealing to anyone who may have seen something suspicious, or to anyone with dashcam that was in the area between 11:30 a.m. and 11:50 a.m., to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to call the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6630, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. Anonymous tips can also be sent online at www.1800222tips.com.

Prepared by: Constable Kevin Nebrija
26-82050
March 10, 2026

Video: Renewed Appeal for Witnesses Following Serious Markham Hit-and-Run

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 15:45:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Major Collision Investigation Unit are renewing their appeal for witnesses after a 19-year-old pedestrian suffered life-altering injuries in a hit-and-run collision in the City of Markham.

On Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 3:41 p.m., police responded to reports of a pedestrian struck at the intersection of Denison Street and Featherstone Avenue. The victim was located 50 meters east of the intersection after being struck and carried on the hood of the vehicle. She was transported to a trauma centre, where she remains in critical condition.

Due to the time of day and traffic volume, investigators are appealing to drivers who were in the area and may have dashcam footage, particularly vehicles equipped with continuous-loop recording systems such as Tesla models.

New video of the collision and suspect vehicle’s route has been released to help identify the driver. The footage shows a 2016 to 2020 Aegean Blue, four-door Honda Civic with winter tires striking the pedestrian. The suspect drove into oncoming traffic to proceed through a red light at Middlefield Road, turned northbound, and was later seen travelling eastbound on Highglen Avenue in a dangerous manner.

Video can be found here: https://youtu.be/xOMWAYvpkDw

A direct message to the driver: You were involved in a serious collision which left a young pedestrian with life-changing injuries. Fleeing the scene makes you criminally liable for a serious offence. We are urging you to seek legal advice and turn yourself in. Police have video of your vehicle and your route – you will be identified.

Video can be uploaded through this link: https://yrp.ca.evidence.com/axon/community-request/public/26-60600 or by scanning the attached QR code.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
26-60600
March 10, 2026

Newmarket Man Charged with Sexual Assault

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 13:45:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police #1 District Criminal Investigation Unit are appealing for additional victims after a Newmarket man was charged in connection with a sexual assault in Newmarket.

On Tuesday, March 3, 2026, the victim reported to police she had been sexually assaulted by a suspect she met at a bar in Newmarket. The victim reported that, on February 28, 2026, she attended the suspect’s residence, where the suspect sexually assaulted her with a weapon, causing bodily harm.

The suspect was identified, and on March 4, 2026, he was arrested and charged.

Investigators believe there may be additional victims. The suspect’s photo has been released to encourage anyone with information to come forward.

Charged:

Michael MICALLEF, 40,
Town of Newmarket

Charges:

Sexual Assault with Choking x2
Sexual Assault with a Weapon
Sexual Assault Cause Bodily Harm
Overcome Resistance by Attempting to Choke
Assault

Anyone with information is asked to call the York Regional Police #1 District Criminal Investigation at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7141 or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com .

Visit our Community Safety Data Portalfor complete stats and crime data within York Region. Crime prevention is our shared responsibility. Learn more about Operation Streetview .

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
26-74881
March 10, 2026

Suspects Sought in Staged Carjacking in Markham

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit are appealing for witnesses and seeking suspects following a staged carjacking which occurred in the City of Markham.

On Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at approximately 11:40 p.m., at Highway 407 and Warden Avenue, the victim had his Black Rolls Royce forcefully taken from him by suspects.

The suspects vehicle, a white sedan, hit the victim’s vehicle from behind. When the victim exited the vehicle to assess damage, he was assaulted by two suspects. The two suspects fled the scene in the victim’s Rolls Royce, with a third suspect following in the white sedan.

The victim sustained minor injuries.

Three suspects are described as male. No further description is available at this time.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6630. Anonymous tips can be made by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or by visiting www.1800222tips.com.

Prepared by: Constable Alison McCully
26-75302
March 10, 2026

Update - Missing Vulnerable Woman from Richmond Hill Located

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 13:00:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police #2 District Criminal Investigations Bureau would like to thank the media and the public for their assistance in locating a missing 44-year-old from the City of Richmond Hill.

Lori has been located.

Please remove her photo from circulation.

Prepared by: Constable Kevin Nebrija
26-78855
March 10, 2026

Witnesses Sought Following Serious Collision in Richmond Hill

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 15:00:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Major Collision Investigation Unit are appealing for witnesses following a two-vehicle collision in the Town of Richmond Hill.

On Sunday, March 8, 2026, at approximately 1 p.m., police responded to a two-vehicle collision involving a sport utility vehicle (SUV) and a motorcycle at Highway 7 East and Bayview Avenue in the City of Richmond Hill.

The driver of the grey SUV remained at the scene with minor injuries and the driver of the motorcycle was transported to hospital with life-threatening injuries.

The investigation is ongoing.

Investigators are appealing to any witnesses who have not yet spoken with police, and are asking anyone who may have dashcam footage of the area around the time of the collision, to please come forward.

Video can be uploaded through this link: https://yrp.ca.evidence.com/axon/community-request/public/26-80978 or by scanning this QR code:

Prepared by: Constable Alison McCully
26-80978
March 9, 2026

Update - Dropbox for Items Recovered in Project Dora

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 14:15:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Integrated Property Crime Task Force are releasing images of stolen property recovered as a result of Project Dora.

In December 2025, an investigation, dubbed Project Dora, was launched into a series of break and enter incidents in the cities of Vaughan, Richmond Hill and Markham.

Investigators have charged three suspects and the investigation has linked the suspects to 14 residential break and enter incidents across York Region since December 2025.

Numerous items have been recovered. A Dropbox folder has been set up with photos of the items that have not yet been returned to their owners. Anyone who was a victim of a residential break and enter between December 2025 to February 2026 is asked to please review the photos and contact police if any of the items belong to you.

There will be a process to verify ownership before collecting any property.

Images of the stolen property can be found HERE.

York Regional Police is reminding the public to always maintain the appearance that their residences are occupied. Follow these six steps to protect your home from a break and enter.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
26-29031 / 26-69178
March 9, 2026

Update - One Suspect Arrested in Vaughan Homicide

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 13:30:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Homicide Unit would like to thank the media, the public and the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) for their assistance in locating a suspect wanted in connection with a homicide in the City of Vaughan.

On Monday, January 26, 2026, at approximately 1 p.m., officers were called to a commercial plaza in the area of Winges Road and Rowntree Dairy roads after receiving reports of shots fired. When officers arrived, a male was located in front of a business with multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported to hospital where he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased.

On March 5, 2026, as a result of the ongoing collaborative investigation, members of the OPP James Bay Detachment located and arrested Jacob WALLACE in the Town of Moosonee.

Charged:

Jacob WALLACE, 19, of Mississauga

Charges:

First-Degree Murder
Arson Causing Damage to Property

A Canada-Wide warrant remain for 19-year-old Isaiah Thomas BADGER, of the City of Edmonton, Alberta.

BADGER is considered armed and dangerous. If seen, citizens are urged not to approach, but to call police immediately.

Wanted:

Isaiah Thomas BADGER, 19, of Edmonton

Charges:

First-Degree Murder
Arson Causing Damage to Property

The accused is encouraged to seek legal advice and turn himself in.

York Regional Police thanks the Toronto Police Service Homicide and Missing Person Unit, and the Ontario Provincial Police for their ongoing collaboration and assistance with this investigation.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
26-30502
March 9, 2026

Update - Charges Laid in February Shooting in Whitchurch-Stouffville

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 17:15:00 GMT

Charges have been laid by the York Regional Police Firearms Investigations Team following a shooting at a residence in February, in the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville.

On Thursday, February 12, 2026, just after 9 p.m., police responded to reports of gunshots on Harold Avenue, in the area of 9^th Line. When officers arrived at the scene, a house was located with damage as a result of gunfire.

No injuries were reported.

On March 4, 2026, following a thorough investigation, a search warrant was executed at a residence in the City of Pickering. As a result of the search warrant, a 34-year-old man has been charged.

Charged:

Pirasanna BALASUBRAMANIYAM, 34, of the City of Pickering

Charges:

Conspiracy to Commit an Indictable Offence x2
Utter Threats x2
Point Firearm
Assault with a Weapon
Possession of Property Obtained by Crime

The investigation remains ongoing.

Prepared by: Constable Kevin Nebrija
26-52625
March 6, 2026

Toronto Man Charged in Multi-Million Dollar Investment Scam

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 13:45:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Financial Crimes Unit have laid fraud charges in an investment scam investigation and believe there may be additional victims.

The investigation began in March 2025, when a victim came forward to report an investment scam.

In February 2024, the victim invested a quantity of funds through the suspect, who owned Equity Line Service Corporation, and was promised a return on their investment.

In February 2025, investigators learned five additional victims had also invested a quantity of funds with the same suspect. It is believed the suspect misappropriated the invested funds from the victims for personal gain.

In total, over $2.5 million was invested through the suspect.

After a thorough investigation, Sergiy SHCHAVYELYEV, 40, of the City of Toronto, was charged on December 9, 2025, with six counts of Fraud Over $5,000.

Investigators are releasing his photo as they believe there may be additional victims and encourage them to come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Financial Crimes Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6612, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. Anonymous tips can also be sent online at www.1800222tips.com.

Prepared by: Constable Kevin Nebrija
25-88214
March 6, 2026

Update - Two Suspects Wanted in Vaughan Homicide

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 16:30:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Homicide Unit are appealing for the public assistance in locating two suspects wanted in connection with a homicide in the City of Vaughan.

On Monday, January 26, 2026, at 1:08 p.m., officers were called to a commercial plaza in the area of Winges and Rowntree Dairy roads after receiving reports that shots fired. When officers arrived, a male was located in front of a business with multiple gunshot wounds. He was transported to hospital where he succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased.

On Tuesday, January 27, 2026, the Office of the Chief Coroner identified the homicide victim as Sergio LOPES, 65, of the City of Richmond Hill.

Canada-Wide warrants are currently being sought for 19-year-old Jacob WALLACE, of the City of Mississauga and 19-year-old Isaiah Thomas BADGER, of the City of Edmonton, Alberta. Both suspects are wanted for First Degree Murder.

The men are considered armed and dangerous. If seen, citizens are urged not to approach, but to call police immediately.

Wanted:

Jacob WALLACE,
19, of Mississauga

Charges:

First-Degree Murder
Arson Causing Damage to Property

Isaiah Thomas BADGER, 19, of Edmonton

First-Degree Murder
Arson Causing Damage to Property

The accused are encouraged to seek legal advice and turn themselves in.

York Regional Police thanks the Toronto Police Service Homicide and Missing Person Unit, for their ongoing collaboration and assistance with this investigation.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
26-30502
March 3, 2026

York Regional Police Service Board Announces Retirement of Chief Jim MacSween

Thu, 19 Feb 2026 20:00:00 GMT

The York Regional Police Service Board announced today that, following a six-year tenure as chief of police, Jim MacSween will retire on June 26, 2026.

Chief MacSween, who has already played an integral role in succession planning for the Executive Leadership Team at York Regional Police, will continue to support the Board in the process to appoint its next chief.

“On behalf of the Board, I want to extend our sincere congratulations to Chief MacSween on his well-earned retirement after dedicating 37 years to policing, including the past six as chief of police,” said Board Chair Steve Pellegrini. “Chief MacSween has served our community with integrity, professionalism and a steadfast commitment to public safety.”

“Under his leadership, our service has continued to evolve—strengthening community trust, improving support for our members, and modernizing how we respond to the changing needs of the people we serve,” Board Chair Pellegrini said. “We are deeply grateful for the positive impact he has made across our organization and wish Chief MacSween and his family health, happiness and every success in the next chapter.”

Chief MacSween assumed the role of Chief of Police May 1, 2020, after an impressive career that saw him fill roles in the Criminal Investigations, Community Services and Training and Education Bureaus, as well as the Hold-Up Unit. In leadership roles, he served in command of two police districts, Operational Command, and eventually as deputy chief overseeing the Support Branch. During his time as chief, MacSween served as president of the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police, chair of the Canadian Police Knowledge Network and the St. John Ambulance Board of Directors, and as a board member for Special Olympics Ontario.

Chief MacSween has been a staunch advocate for the work of frontline members in the police service. He championed a “people first” culture and new leadership development model that supported members in their personal and professional lives, while empowering them to perform at their best in service of the community.

Through the COVID-19 pandemic, he drove the organization to meet complex operational demands, all while ensuring the safety and security of York Region’s communities and the health and well-being of more than 2,000 staff. Chief MacSween was also a builder, forging invaluable relationships with partners and advocacy groups, while leading York Regional Police to raise nearly $4 million for charities of choice, including Victim Services of York Region, York Region Centre for Community Safety, and Special Olympics Ontario.

Under his leadership, the organization was transformed, adopting a new structure to meet the challenges of a rapidly growing region and an increasingly complex policing environment.

“It has been the greatest honour of my career to lead the dedicated members of this service, who put the professionalism, compassion and commitment to public safety into action every day,” said Chief MacSween. “I would like to thank the Police Service Board, our members, our partners and our communities for the trust and confidence you have placed in me over the past six years, and for my entire career.”

“Being privileged to work alongside and lead thousands of exceptional people, I am retiring with immense gratitude and pride,” Chief MacSween continued. “But I am still looking forward, and my commitment over the coming months is simple: Supporting a disciplined and seamless transition, so the organization’s focus stays exactly where it belongs—on building and protecting safer communities well into the future.”

Beginning immediately, members of the Police Service Board will now embark on a comprehensive selection process to identify and appoint its next Chief of Police. The Board will provide updates on these processes to members of the public as they become available.

Contact:

Jaclyn Kogan, Board Manager, The Regional Municipality of York Police Services Board

psb@yrp.ca 1-866-876-5423 ext. 3000

Update - Additional Suspect Identified in Project Chatter

Fri, 13 Feb 2026 14:45:00 GMT

Officers with the York Regional Police Guns, Gangs and Drug Enforcement Unit (GGDEU) are seeking the public’s assistance in locating an additional suspect identified in Project Chatter, an investigation into the trafficking of fentanyl and firearms within York Region and elsewhere in the Greater Toronto Area.

These efforts resulted in the arrest of 23 individuals, the recovery of 32 illegal firearms and a large quantity of drugs, including over 700,000 doses of fentanyl with a street value of more than $7 million.

GGDEU investigators are now seeking the public’s assistance in locating a suspect wanted for trafficking a substantial amount of fentanyl.

Christopher MORGAN, 27, of the City of Toronto, is wanted for Trafficking of a Controlled Substance. Police have been unable to locate him and a warrant has been issued for his arrest. Investigators are releasing his image and appealing to the public for information on his whereabouts. MORGAN is known to have ties to the Cities of Vaughan and Toronto.

The accused is encouraged to seek legal advice and turn himself in. Investigators are reminding the public that anyone providing assistance to him may be subject to criminal charges.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Guns, Gangs, and Drug Enforcement Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7817. Anonymous tips can be made by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or by visiting www.1800222tips.com.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
25-15896
February 13, 2026

York Regional Police One of Canada's Top Employers for Young People for 2026

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 20:45:00 GMT

Chief Jim MacSween is proud to announce York Regional Police has, for the ninth year in a row, been named one of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People for 2026.

This award recognizes employers offering exceptional workplaces and development programs for people at the start of their careers.

Winners were selected based on the quality and depth of their recruitment, training, mentorship and career management programs. Thousands of employers in Canada were evaluated.

“Young people aren’t just the future of our organization, they make a significant impact on our present success,” said Chief MacSween. “Helping them reach their full potential as law enforcement professionals is a top priority here at York Regional Police. We are incredibly honoured to win this distinction once again.”

York Regional Police supports young members through a variety of initiatives, including:

Tuition reimbursement, available to all active members up to 80 per cent of the tuition fees to a career maximum of $7,500 for courses related to their current position or that would benefit them in their career development at York Regional Police.
The Future of Leadership in Policing program, run in co-operation with Schulich ExecEd, an extension of the Schulich School of Business at York University, which prepares sworn and civilian members for supervisory roles. The program has separate streams for different leadership levels, guiding members throughout their career journeys.
The Civilian Job Shadow program, which provides civilian members with the opportunity to gain knowledge and skills in a unit different from their regular assignment.
Access to information and advice before internal job competitions from human resources professionals, as well as feedback post-competition to identify areas of improvement.

Learn why York Regional Police was once again recognized as one of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People and how a people-focused culture has helped young members thrive: Top Employer: York Regional Police

The complete list of Canada’s Top Employers for Young People for 2026 can be viewed here: Canada's Top Employers for Young People (2026)

Now in its 24th year, the Canada’s Top Employers for Young People competition, part of the Canada’s Top 100 Employers program, is an editorial project by Mediacorp Canada Inc., the nation’s largest publisher of employment periodicals.

Prepared by: Will Mazgay, Strategic Communications
January 20, 2026

York Regional Police Announces Results of Operation Auto Guard 3.0

Fri, 12 Dec 2025 18:00:00 GMT

York Regional Police is proud to announce the results of Operation Auto Guard 3.0, a campaign aimed at combatting auto theft in the south end of York Region.

The operation, along with other initiatives designed to stop auto theft in York Region have had a significant impact. As of November 31, there have been 1,635 vehicles reported stolen in York Region, a drop from 2,363 recorded during the same period of 2024. This marks a 35 per cent drop year over year.

Building on the success of the first two Operation Auto Guard campaigns, York Regional Police employed a multi-pronged approach which included enforcement, community engagement and crime prevention strategies.

Through data analysis, investigators identified hot-spot areas for vehicle thefts. Officers then focused their enforcement and crime prevention efforts in these areas.

Thousands of information cards were handed out to citizens, empowering them with the ‘six steps’ to protect their vehicle from auto thieves. The cards were translated into multiple languages, in an effort to better serve our diverse community.

Through the tireless work of our dedicated Operation Auto Guard team, with the assistance of the Criminal Investigations and the Air Support units, a total of 73 stolen vehicles were recovered. The estimated value of the vehicles seized is $5 million.

Forty-eight people, including one youth, have been arrested, and 242 charges have been laid.

Several of the adult suspects were found to be breaching probation or some form of release order at the time of their arrest.

The successful completion of Operation Auto Guard 3.0 was made possible through our partnership with Équité Association, and through funding provided by the Ontario Government’s Ministry of the Solicitor General, in which the Criminal Intelligence Service of Ontario supported this ongoing criminal investigation.

York Regional Police will continue to work with our policing partners to combat auto theft.

For more information visit yrp.ca/AutoGuard or contact the Media Relations Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext., 2664 or mediarelations@yrp.ca/

Prepared by: James Dickson
December 12, 2025

York Regional Police Named One of Greater Toronto's Top Employers for 2026

Tue, 02 Dec 2025 20:45:00 GMT

Chief Jim MacSween is proud to announce that York Regional Police, for the eleventh year in a row, has been named one of Greater Toronto’s Top Employers for 2026, a designation that recognizes employers who lead their industries with outstanding employee benefits, forward-thinking workplace policies and supportive workplace cultures.

Employers are graded on eight criteria, which have remained consistent since the project's inception: Physical workplace; work atmosphere and social; health, financial and family benefits; vacation and time-off; employee communications; performance management; training and skills development; and community involvement.

“York Regional Police is deeply honoured to be continually named one of Greater Toronto’s Top Employers,” said Chief MacSween. “Much has changed in our organization over the last eleven years, but our commitment to the career development and well-being of our members remains a constant. We strive to ensure our members have everything they need to excel both professionally and personally from recruitment to retirement.”

York Regional Police was recognized for exceptional employee benefits which set our service apart from other GTA employers. These include:

$12,000 a year for external mental health services, plus access to staff mental health clinicians

Pregnancy and Parental Leave benefits, providing eligible members with a top-up to their EI benefits to 75% of their regular rate of pay for up to 51 weeks

Up to seven weeks of vacation allowance
Up to $7,500 total reimbursement for job-related tuition

The complete list of Greater Toronto’s Top Employers for 2026 can be viewed here: https://www.canadastop100.com/toronto/

A special feature on why York Regional Police was once again selected as one of Greater Toronto’s Top Employers can be read here: Top Employer: York Regional Police

Our Greater Toronto’s Top Employers feature story explores the journeys of two York Regional Police members, Staff Superintendent Jennifer McCue and Constable Tosca Lagman. Thanks to their own exemplary work as well as fulsome mentorship, training, professional development and a culture that puts equity and inclusion first, both members have flourished at our service.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Greater Toronto’s Top Employers competition, part of the Canada’s Top 100 Employers program. The initiative is an editorial project by Mediacorp Canada Inc., the nation’s largest publisher of employment periodicals.

Prepared by:

Will Mazgay, Strategic Communications

December 2, 2025

York Regional Council Approves 2026 Police Budget

Thu, 27 Nov 2025 21:00:00 GMT

York Regional Police, with the support of the York Regional Police Service Board, is pleased to announce that York Region Council has approved the 2026 police operating and capital budget. The budget enables our organization to continue to deliver nationally recognized crime prevention and law enforcement programs to more than 1.2 million citizens living in York Region.

The approved net operating budget for 2026 is $499 million, representing an increase of 12.7% over 2025. The 2026 capital budget is $38.3 million, with capital spending authority for multiple-year projects of $48.5 million.

YRP will be hiring 150 additional members in 2026, expanding our community-safety, frontline and support teams to strengthen our responsiveness and deepen our connection with the public. These additional members will enhance frontline coverage and community-oriented response, while also building recruitment and supporting prevention-focused initiatives that contribute to safer, more resilient communities.

The capital budget reflects key investments in equipment, communication and information technology infrastructure and vehicles, including those designed to support an enhanced response to mental health crises in our community. It will also fund the construction of the new helicopter hangar in East Gwillimbury, major improvements to Headquarters and Community Safety Village facilities, and other renovations, ensuring YRP supports its members with the tools and infrastructure required to perform at their best, when our community needs it most.

The budget reflects the complex policing environment our YRP enters in 2026, with a continued focus on our community and our people, two guiding pillars identified in our business plan.

“For our community, this budget invests in what matters most: Preventing and reducing violent crime, enhancing police presence regionwide, and strengthening partnerships that make our region safer,” said Chief Jim MacSween. “For our people, this budget ensures we have the right staff in place to meet the growing operational demand of an evolving region. It funds critical staffing increases, provides new technology and tools to modernize our work, and expands the training and wellness programs that allow our members to serve safely and effectively.”

“I am confident this budget will enable us to continue to build a modern, community-focused police service ready to serve York Region today and for years to come. I want to thank all members of the York Regional Police Service Board, along with York Regional Council for recognizing and supporting that endeavour.”

“The York Regional Police Service Board is pleased with Regional Council’s decision to approve the 2026 York Regional Police operating and capital budget. This decision demonstrates a clear commitment to supporting safe, thriving communities across York Region in an increasingly complex policing environment,” said Mayor Steve Pellegrini, Chair of the York Regional Police Service Board.

“The approved budget prioritizes preventing and reducing violent crime, enhancing visible police presence across all nine municipalities, and strengthening partnerships that keep our communities safe. It also invests in our members, technology, and facilities to modernize service delivery. With this support, we are well-positioned to serve our growing Region with confidence.”

For more information, contact York Regional Police Media Relations at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 2664.

Prepared by: Billy Courtice, Manager, Strategic Communications
November 27, 2025

2025 Annual Holiday Heroes Toy and Food Drive

Sat, 15 Nov 2025 19:00:00 GMT

Members of York Regional Police are excited to launch the 29^th Annual Holiday Heroes Campaign. For nearly three decades, this campaign has supported infants, children, families, seniors and community members in need by providing holiday and winter essentials.

This year’s campaign will run from November 15 to December 19, 2025.

We are calling on our community members, businesses and partners to be a holiday hero this year.

York Regional Police is looking for monetary and gift card donations, as well as new toys, new children’s clothing, non-perishable food and hygiene items.

What sets the Holiday Heroes campaign apart is that when you donate, you are directly helping your neighbours, your friends and your children’s classmates right here in our region.

In 2024, thanks to your generous donations, a total of 6,440 families victimized by crime and other tragic circumstances received holiday gifts and other essentials.

Since the program launched 29 years ago, Holiday Heroes has helped 109,000 individuals and families in need.

This year, our goal is to collect $250,000 in monetary and gift card donations.

How to Become a Holiday Hero

The Holiday Heroes Campaign is accepting donations in-kind of new toys, new clothes, non-perishable food items, infant formula, diapers, hygiene products, transit passes and other essentials.

The Holiday Heroes campaign is also collecting monetary donations online at yrp.ca/hhdonate.

Financial contributions are essential, as they allow the purchase of necessities that are not commonly donated. Monetary and gift card donations also ensure the recipients are supported after the holiday season.

Donation Drop-Off

Donations can be dropped off at any of the York Regional Police community events, or at any of the following police district locations:

York Regional Police Headquarters - 47 Don Hillock Drive, Aurora
#1 District - 429 Harry Walker Pkwy S, Newmarket
#2 District - 171 Major Mackenzie Drive West, Richmond Hill
#3 District - 3527 Baseline Road, Sutton
#4 District - 2700 Rutherford Road, Vaughan
#5 District - 8700 McCowan Road, Markham

Become a Sponsor

York Regional Police is always looking for sponsors. Demonstrate your company’s commitment to York Region and position your brand as a vital part of our ongoing efforts to help those in need. Contact YRP at holidayheroes@yrp.ca to confirm your support today.

Sponsor a Family or Host a Drive

Businesses and community groups can also sponsor a family or host a drive. Together, we can expand our reach and create a lasting, positive impact in York Region. For more information, visit yrp.ca/HolidayHeroes or contact holidayheroes@yrp.ca.

More Information

For more information about the Holiday Heroes campaign, to donate, or to learn more about getting involved, please visit yrp.ca/HolidayHeroes or email holidayheroes@yrp.ca to confirm your support.

Every community needs its heroes, and together we can make this season brighter for everyone.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
November 15, 2025

Update - Missing Youth from Markham Located

Thu, 06 Nov 2025 22:45:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police #5 District Criminal Investigations Bureau would like to thank the media and the public for their assistance in locating the missing 14-year-old from the City of Markham.

Marteen has been located. Please remove his photo from circulation.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
25-368183
November 6, 2025

York Regional Police Joins 30Forward Pledge to Increase Representation of Women Across Service

Wed, 05 Nov 2025 17:15:00 GMT

York Regional Police is proud to be one of the first police services in the province to sign the 30Forward pledge, committing to a future where at least 30 per cent of our sworn officers are women.

Today, less than 23 per cent of police officers in Canada identify as women. The 30Forward initiative aims to push that number above 30 per cent. Research shows that when underrepresented groups reach 30 per cent representation in a profession, they gain the ability to shape culture, drive innovation and influence decision-making in meaningful ways.

The 30Forward initiative is inspired by the global 30x30 initiative, which is working to increase representation of women in U.S. police services and beyond. 30Forward is tailored for Canadian police services, and many have signed on to this pledge to create a fair and inclusive workforce that better reflects the communities they serve. The initiative aims not only to boost recruitment of women but to retain and foster the progression of women officers.

Data has shown women officers use force less often and less excessively when they do. Women make fewer arrests for non-violent, low-level offences, conduct fewer searches during traffic stops and are more likely to find contraband when they do. They also see better outcomes for crime victims – especially sexual assault victims – and are named less often in complaints and lawsuits.

Women in law enforcement face barriers in promotion, flexibility around family responsibilities, gendered performance expectations, retention and a lack of mentorship.

Only 20.23 per cent of York Regional Police sworn members identify as women, but our service has made significant progress dismantling barriers through women-centric recruiting initiatives and programs designed to offer more flexibility and work-life balance for officers. This progress has been accomplished through representation among senior leaders (21 per cent), robust mentoring, and equity-focused organizational planning and training.

“While much has been accomplished to create greater gender equity at our service, there is more work to do,” said Chief Jim MacSween. “Our commitment continues, to empower women in policing, create opportunities and build a culture where everyone can thrive.”

“York Regional Police has committed publicly to transparency and examining systemic barriers that exist for women in policing,” said Deputy Chief of People & Culture Cecile Hammond. “This isn’t about lowering standards. It’s about raising opportunities and inspiring the next generation of policing leaders.”

Learn more at yrp.ca/30Forward and at 30forward.ca.

Prepared by: Will Mazgay

November 5, 2025

Statement on Impaired Driving Conviction in Travis Gillespie Death

Mon, 27 Oct 2025 20:30:00 GMT

On behalf of York Regional Police, I wish to acknowledge today’s verdict in the impaired operation trial of Mr. Haoju Zhou, arising from the collision that claimed the life of Constable Travis Gillespie.

Travis was killed on his way to work on September 14, 2022, in the City of Markham. Three years later, Travis remains deeply missed by his family, friends, and colleagues. Our thoughts are with the Gillespie family as they continue to mourn a life taken far too soon.

Earlier today, we learned that the driver will face consequences for the senseless actions that resulted in Travis’ death, when he was found guilty of dangerous operation causing death and impaired operation causing death. He remains on bail pending sentencing, scheduled for January 16, 2026.

We are pleased with this result, and grateful to all who played a role in delivering justice for Travis in the wake of his death.

I am especially grateful for members of the Peel Regional Police Major Collision Investigation Unit for their professionalism and dedication in conducting this complex investigation. Your work contributed to securing this conviction and has helped bring the Gillespie family, along with his friends and colleagues at York Regional Police, one step closer to closure.

Thank you also to our community for the overwhelming support shown throughout these proceedings. Together, let’s continue to honour Travis’ memory by contributing to safer roads and a safer York Region for us all to enjoy.

Chief Jim MacSween

Two Charged and Property Recovered in Residential Break and Enters

Thu, 23 Oct 2025 13:45:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police #4 District Criminal Investigations Bureau have charged two suspects and recovered stolen property in connection with an ongoing investigation into daytime residential break and enters across York Region.

On Wednesday, July 16, 2025, at approximately 2 p.m., police responded to the report of a residential break and enter in the area of Huronia Place and Riverview Avenue, in the City of Vaughan. A female suspect approached the front door to confirm the residence was empty. Meanwhile, three male suspects entered the rear of the property and forced entry through a sliding glass door.

On Wednesday, October 8, 2025, investigators were conducting surveillance in the area of Woodbine Avenue and Executive Drive, in the Town of Whitchurch-Stouffville. The suspects conducted a break and enter and officers took two suspects into custody.

Investigators are still seeking three additional suspects, two females and one male.

As a result of search warrants executed at residences in the City of Toronto, numerous items have been recovered. A Dropbox folder has been set up with photos of the items that have not yet been claimed. We are asking anyone who was a victim of a residential break and enter between June 2025 to October 2025 to please review the photos and contact police if any of the items belong to you.

There will be a process to verify ownership before collecting any property.

Images of the stolen property can be found here: https://tinyurl.com/yh46pky5

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to call the York Regional Police #4 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7445, or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.

York Regional Police reminds public to always maintain the appearance that your residence is occupied and to follow these six steps to protect your home from a break and enter.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
25-235154 / 335484
October 23, 2025

A Message to Our Community

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 16:00:00 GMT

York Regional Police is aware of the attack near a synagogue in Manchester, England which took place this morning.

We’d like to offer our deepest condolences to the family and friends of those killed and affected in this attack, and we wish a full recovery to those who were injured. Our thoughts are also with the first responders and all working to provide support to victims at this time.

We understand events like these can cause anxiety and distress within our community. We are reassuring our community that York Regional Police has proactively increased patrols in specific areas of the region, in preparation or the Jewish High Holy Days, and ahead of the anniversary of the events of October 7, 2023.

Officers are conducting increased foot and mobile patrols near faith-based institutions, schools and community centres.

At this time, York Regional Police has no indication of a threat to our region, and the increased patrols have been put in place to support all members of the community.

After this time, York Regional Police will evaluate the community’s need for ongoing support.

If you witness, or have been the victim of hate crime or a hate or bias incident, we encourage you to report it to police immediately through 9-1-1 or by calling the non-emergency line at 1-866-876-5423.

York Regional Police Launches Operation Auto Guard 3.0

Wed, 01 Oct 2025 13:30:00 GMT

York Regional Police is proud to launch Operation Auto Guard 3.0, an annual campaign designed to combat auto theft in York Region.

Building on the success of Operation Auto Guard over the last two consecutive years, York Regional Police is continuing to employ a multi-pronged approach to protect residents’ vehicles and arrest criminals stealing vehicles.

This includes enforcement, community engagement and education on effective crime prevention strategies.

In 2023, crime prevention efforts and targeted enforcement, which were focused on disrupting organized crime groups who were stealing and shipping vehicles overseas, led to 56 people arrested and charged with more than 300 offences. A total of 80 vehicles worth more than $5 million were recovered.

Operation Auto Guard 2.0 led to the recovery of 15 vehicles, worth approximately $487,000, with 17 people charged with 127 offences.

Over the past two years, York Regional Police Auxiliary, Community Services and Community Oriented Response Units successfully handed out more than 30,000 Faraday bags across York Region at district stations, traffic stops, and various community events.

That initiative, and many others over the past two years, have had a significant impact on the number of auto thefts in York Region. From January 1 to September 1, 2025, York Region has seen a 34 per cent drop in vehicle thefts, when compared to the same time last year.

In 2024, auto theft also dropped—a 31 per cent decrease when compared to the previous year.

Auto Guard 3.0 will continue to use a data-driven approach to identify hot-spot areas for vehicle theft. York Regional Police will then focus both enforcement and education efforts in those areas.

Following the positive results of last year’s campaign, York Regional Police officers will be attending hot-spot areas in the region’s south end to hand out postcards.

This approach ensures our citizens are empowered with the tools and knowledge to keep themselves, and their vehicles safe.

York Regional Police recognizes the need for multiple strategies across all levels of government, law enforcement, community agencies and our citizens to combat auto theft.

York Regional Police will continue to work with other police services in joint-force operations across the GTA and organizations including Équité and the Canadian Border Services Agency, and will leverage community engagement to further enhance our strategy.

Operation Auto Guard 3.0 will run until mid-November, with crime prevention efforts continuing into early 2026.

For more information on how to safeguard your vehicle, visit yrp.ca/AutoGuard.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
October 1, 2025

Ontario Investing to Keep York Region Safe

Mon, 22 Sep 2025 16:45:00 GMT

The Ontario government is investing $255,000 to help York Regional Police expand its video surveillance systems and better protect the community against crime and the threat of gun and gang violence.

Funding is being delivered through the Ontario Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) Grant Program and can be used to replace outdated equipment, expand or enhance current technology, and install new or additional CCTV surveillance cameras in areas where gun and gang violence and correlated crimes, such as drug and human trafficking, are most prevalent.

Safe neighbourhoods are the foundation of a strong community,” said Dawn Gallagher Murphy, MPP for Newmarket—Aurora. “This funding will expand and improve video surveillance, giving police better tools to prevent and solve serious crimes. I’m proud that our government is investing to ensure York Regional Police have the resources they need to meet new challenges and keep residents safe.”

CCTV surveillance systems are an important part of local police work to detect, prevent and deter criminal activity, especially in areas of gun and gang violence and other serious crimes,” said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner. “Through this grant program, our government led by Premier Ford is ensuring police services have the tools and resources they need to help protect their communities and keep Ontarians safe.”

We are pleased to receive this funding from our partners at the provincial government,” said York Regional Police Deputy Chief Paulo Da Silva. “The CCTV Community Camera program has already delivered positive results, and we are confident the addition of Automated Licence Plate Reader technology will further support our frontline officers in keeping communities safe — helping us detect, deter and arrest those who commit crime.”

Launched in August 2020, the Ontario CCTV Grant program is part of Ontario’s Guns, Gangs and Violence Reduction Strategy. The funding being provided to York Regional Police supports one of 14 projects across the province, for a total investment of $2 million for 2024-2025.

Warrant Issued for Sex Offender of a Minor

Mon, 08 Sep 2025 14:00:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Special Victims Unit, Human Trafficking Section are seeking public assistance in locating a 27-year-old man wanted soliciting sex with a minor.

On Wednesday, June 14, 2023, the suspect had attended an address in the area of Don Mills Road and Parkway Forest Drive, in the City of Toronto, and engaged in sexual activity with the victim, who was under the age of 18 years. He was also charged with failing to comply with a previous release order.

The suspect was placed on a GPS ankle monitor device.

On Friday, May 23, 2025, the suspect was found guilty of Obtaining Sexual Services for Consideration Under 18 and Fail to Comply with a Judicial Release Order.

On Tuesday, July 22, 2025, while awaiting sentencing, the suspect cut off his ankle monitor device.

On Thursday, August 14, 2025 and sentenced in absentia to five years in prison.

Chengyuan Chad LI, 27, of the City of Markham, is now wanted. Police have been unable to locate him and a warrant has been issued for his arrest. Investigators are releasing his image and are appealing to the public for information on his whereabouts.

Wanted:

Chengyuan Chad LI, 27, of the City of Markham

Charges:

Fail to Comply with a Judicial Release Order
Mischief Under $5000

The accused is encouraged to seek legal advice and turn himself in. Investigators are reminding the public that anyone providing assistance to him may be subject to criminal charges.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Special Victims Unit by calling 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6008. Anonymous tips can be sent to Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS or by visiting www.1800222tips.com.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
23-228938
September 8, 2025

A Statement from Chief Jim MacSween

Fri, 05 Sep 2025 19:15:00 GMT

Before revisiting the ongoing conversation about violent crime and personal safety in York Region, I want to once again express my deepest sympathies for the family and loved ones of Mr. Abdul Aleem Farooqi, along with the greater community in which he was deeply respected and beloved. My heart goes out to all grappling with the violent murder of a husband, son, father, brother, friend and leader.

When discussing Mr. Farooqi’s murder and a number of other violent crimes we experienced in York Region over the past two weeks, some took exception to a piece of guidance I provided to citizens in the event they are faced with an armed intruder at their home. Following these crimes and in light of broader, nationwide conversations about citizens’ personal safety—I understand this reaction. I understand the feelings of pain and anger boiling to the surface in our community. And I understand why people feel the need to fight back, and are dissatisfied with any direction to do otherwise.

When I told citizens not to take matters into their own hands, it had nothing to do with politics, or with concern over force used against the perpetrators of home invasions. It was suggested as a tactic in the hopes of preserving lives, should citizens be confronted with an armed intruder. When it comes to defending property, material items can be replaced—but lives cannot.

There is no one piece of advice to offer to citizens who are faced with an intruder in their home—but calling 9-1-1 immediately and avoiding engagement with the suspects has proven to be an effective course of action. These situations are dynamic, chaotic, and difficult to assess in the moment.

Ultimately, a citizen should do what they deem necessary to preserve their own safety, and the safety of their loved ones.

I would like to also address the inaccurate reports around the response time of our officers to this incident, following the 9-1-1 call. While it has been reported that it may have taken police up to 13 minutes to respond—the fact is, our officers were en route within 40 seconds of receiving the call and arrived on scene within 4.5 minutes following the 9-1-1 call.

Our top priority is solving this heinous, disgusting crime and ensuring those responsible are held accountable. That’s what the Farooqi family, and all of York Region deserves.

Chief Jim MacSween

York Regional Police Helps Build Professional Development Program for Survivors of Intimate Partner Violence

Thu, 21 Aug 2025 13:15:00 GMT

York Regional Police is proud to have partnered with the York Region Centre for Community Safety (YRCCS), Schulich Executive Education, the Schulich School of Business, and York University (Schulich ExecEd) to offer the Women’s Leadership and Empowerment Series—a four-part program designed to support survivors of intimate partner violence as they rebuild their lives.

Developed with guidance from York Regional Police, the program aims to help survivors regain confidence, develop leadership skills, and achieve both personal and professional growth.

“York Regional Police is proud to work alongside our valued community partners to address the very real and pervasive issue of intimate partner violence,” said Chief Jim MacSween. “We will always do what we can to support survivors of abuse.”

Focused on equipping participants with tools and skills to thrive in their personal and professional lives, the program was thoughtfully designed to empower survivors and help them rebuild after trauma.

“This program has been thoughtfully designed to help survivors regain their voice and confidence, sharpen their existing skills, and learn new ones as they navigate the journey of healing,” said Chief MacSween. “For many, this includes rejoining the workforce after some time away.”

YRCCS Executive Director Jaspreet Gill echoed Chief MacSween’s remarks, emphasizing the lasting impact of abuse.

“Survivors of IPV have often lived in a climate of fear, shame, coercive control, and devaluation,” said Gill. “Many are robbed of hope. The goal of this program is to help them reclaim what was taken—to restore hope for a better future.”

Last month, nine participants successfully completed the program and were awarded certificates at a special ceremony.

“Schulich ExecEd is committed to empowering individuals through professional development education,” said Rami Mayer, Executive Director of the program. “We lead many initiatives focused on supporting women, enhancing their well-being, and enabling them to thrive in the workforce.”

Mayer added that the initiative is “a testament to the transformative power of education in fostering personal growth and driving community change.”

Several participants shared powerful reflections on their experience:

“I learned how to look within myself, rebuild my confidence, and rediscover my voice—a voice that had been buried for years in the silence of marriage and self-sacrifice, all for a sense of ‘peace’ for my children and family,” one participant shared.

“This program introduced me to a powerful word: resilience. Through it, I found what had been missing in my life—the strength to stand up and help other women and children who have experienced similar struggles.”

Another participant described each session as “filled with insights, inspiration, and honest conversations” that made a lasting impact.

“The series didn’t just empower—it connected us, encouraged us, and reminded every participant of her capacity to lead, influence, and rise. I left not only with new tools and perspectives but also a renewed sense of confidence and community.”

The Women’s Leadership and Empowerment Series will reconvene in the fall with a new cohort of women participants.

Prepared by: Hannah Jackson
August 21, 2025

Two Suspects Sought After Failed Home Invasion

Mon, 14 Jul 2025 15:00:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit are seeking two suspects following an attempted home invasion in the City of Vaughan.

On Saturday, July 12, 2025, at approximately 1:30 a.m., police responded to a residence in the area of Davos Road and Toulon Crescent for a report of a home invasion. Two suspects, at least one armed with a firearm, attempted to kick in the front door, but were unsuccessful. The suspects then fled on foot.

Both suspects are described as male, with thin builds, wearing face coverings and dark clothing.

The investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with information is asked to call the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6630. Anonymous tips can be made by contacting Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or by visiting www.1800222tips.com.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
25-229394
July 14, 2025

Public Warning of Speed Camera Ticket Text Scam

Wed, 09 Jul 2025 14:30:00 GMT

York Regional Police is alerting residents about a circulating text message scam involving fake speed camera tickets.

Fraudsters are sending text messages claiming recipients must click on a link to pay outstanding speed camera fines. These messages often appear urgent and may look official, but they are designed to steal personal and financial information.

York Regional Police is reminding the public that all legitimate traffic tickets, speed camera tickets and payment instructions are sent through the mail. York Regional Police or any government agency will never demand payment via text message.

To protect yourself, do not click on links or download attachments from unexpected text messages. Ignore any texts claiming to be ticket payment requests and always wait for official mail notifications regarding traffic violations. If you are unsure about the legitimacy of any communication, office directly using verified contact information.

If you have been a victim of a fraud and have lost money, report the incident promptly to York Regional Police either online at https://www.yrp.ca/en/online-reporting/Report-a-Crime.asp or by calling 1-866-876-5423. To report frauds where no money has been lost, contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre online or by calling 1-888-495-8501.

Visit our Community Safety Data Portal for complete stats and crime date within York Region. Crime prevention is our shared responsibility. Learn more about Operation Streetview.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
25-222929
July 9, 2025

York Regional Police Proud to Publish 2024 Annual Report Online

Fri, 04 Jul 2025 13:30:00 GMT

York Regional Police is pleased to share with our community the 2024 Annual Report, which for the second consecutive year, is published in a modern, accessible website.

This format exceeds AODA standards and features a responsive design, optimized to be presented well on any device. It includes images and videos of our members at work, captured at numerous police operations and community events, as well as embedded related content from York Regional Police social media accounts.

2024 was an important year for the police service as we strived to meet our four shared objectives outlined in the 2023-2025 Business Plan: Safety and Well-Being, Inclusion and Belonging, Recruitment and Retention and Continuous Innovation and Improvement.

The stories, facts and figures shared in the 2024 Annual Report serve to illustrate our performance in meeting those objectives, while offering the public a closer look at the people dedicated to ensuring their safety and security, including members working in frontline roles at York Regional Police districts.

Among other highlights, the report shares how York Regional Police combatted violent and organized crime and worked to prevent crimes that saw an uptick in 2024, including carjackings and home invasions. Stories include a special project that disrupted a gun and drug trafficking network, recruitment outreach efforts that saw a record-breaking number of new officers hired last year, YRP-hosted events that raised more than $1.2 million for our partner charities, vulnerable citizens and victims of crime, and the opening of a new community substation in one of York Region’s fastest growing neighbourhoods.

“This report is a testament not only to the hard work of our members performed every single day, but also to the amazing heights that can be reached when partnerships are forged between York Regional Police and our community,” said Chief Jim MacSween. “On behalf of the Executive Leadership Team at YRP, I am truly grateful for everyone who contributed to keeping York Region safe last year, and everyone who continues to make a difference in our community.”

To read these stories and more, visit the 2024 Annual Report site.

Crime prevention is our shared responsibility: Find up-to-date crime data in York Region on the Community Safety Data Portal, or become a partner in community safety by signing up for the Security Camera Registry today.

Prepared by: Billy Courtice
July 4, 2025

Year-To-Date Crime Trends Show Significant Decline in Key Crime Categories

Mon, 30 Jun 2025 15:45:00 GMT

York Regional Police continues to make strides in reducing crime across the region, reinforcing York Region’s status as one of the safest communities in Canada. While violent crime remains a concern in many parts of the country, York Region is seeing encouraging declines in several major crime categories in 2025.

As of June 25, 2025, the following year-to-date trends have been observed:

Homicides are down 67 per cent, from nine at this time last year to three in 2025.
Theft of motor vehicles has dropped by 37 per cent, from 1,722 to 1,080 incidents.
Carjackings have decreased by 49 per cent, from 41 to 21 incidents.
Residential and commercial break and enters have declined by 11 per cent, from 1,189 to 1,057 incidents.

The continued decline in auto theft and carjackings is a direct result of York Regional Police’s targeted enforcement efforts and regional task force initiatives. These numbers reflect the success of dedicated operations aimed at dismantling organized crime networks and addressing the root causes of vehicle-related crimes.

“We know how important it is for residents to feel safe in their homes, on the roads, and in their communities,” said Chief Jim MacSween. “These positive trends are the result of tireless efforts from our officers, strategic partnerships with other police services, and support from our community. But we know there is always more work to do.”

While overall property crime is trending downward, York Regional Police continues to focus on break and enter investigations, and urges homeowners and business owners to remain vigilant and take preventive measures, including the use of security systems and reporting suspicious activity.

York Regional Police is also reporting an encouraging overall decline in hate crime incidents, with total criminal hate incidents down 25 per cent, from 150 to 112. Notably:

Hate incidents based on race/ethnicity decreased from 72 to 62, a 14 per cent reduction.
Hate incidents targeting religion fell from 58 to 33, a 43 per cent drop.
Hate incidents involving sexual orientation declined from 15 to 6, a 60 per cent reduction.
Hate incidents targeting crimes against property also dropped significantly from 77 to 42 reported incidents, a decrease of 45 per cent.

York Regional Police remains committed to proactive policing, crime prevention, and building strong community relationships. Patrols have been increased across the region, and residents will continue to see officers present and engaged in their neighbourhoods.

York Regional Police thanks members of the public for their ongoing support and reminds everyone that community safety is a shared responsibility.

If you see something suspicious or unusual in your neighbourhood, please don’t hesitate to report it, Together, we are making York Region safer.

Anyone with information is asked to contact York Regional Police at 1-866-876-5423, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com. In an emergency or to report a crime in progress, call 9-1-1.

We encourage residents to visit the York Regional Police Community Safety Data Portal to keep up-to-date on crime statistics and trends. Detailed crime prevention strategies and information regarding current incidents can be found at yrp.ca. Anyone with concerns about incidents in their area is encouraged to contact their local police district to learn about the crime prevention and enforcement programs currently taking place.

For more information, please contact the Media Relations Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 2664 or mediarelations@yrp.ca.

Prepared by: Constable Lisa Moskaluk

June 30, 2025

Video - Shots Fired at Markham Home

Mon, 23 Jun 2025 16:45:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police #5 District Criminal Investigations Bureau are appealing for witnesses after a residence was the target of a shooting in the City of Markham.

On Sunday, June 22, 2025, at approximately 7:40 a.m., police responded to a home in the area of The Bridle Walk and Holst Avenue for the report of a shooting. When officers arrived, they observed visible damage to the garage and a vehicle parked in the driveway. Multiple shell casings were located in front of the residence.

No reports of gunshots were reported overnight.

Officers learned at that approximately 2:30 a.m., an unknown suspect arrived on foot, fired multiple times at the residence and fled to a nearby park.

The house was occupied at the time of the shooting. No injuries were reported.

Video of the incident can be viewed here: https://youtu.be/h9LaYO-Wank

Investigators believe the incident is targeted and the investigation is ongoing.

Investigators are seeking any additional video surveillance from the area or any dashcam video of the roadway at the time of the incident. Anyone who has not yet spoken to police is asked to please come forward.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the #5 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7541, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.

Visit our Community Safety Data Portal for complete stats and crime data within York Region. Crime prevention is our shared responsibility. Learn more about Operation Streetview.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
25-203099
June 23, 2025

YORK REGIONAL POLICE MAKES $1.2 MILLION DONATION WHILE MARKING 30 YEARS OF POLICE APPRECIATION NIGHT

Fri, 09 May 2025 16:00:00 GMT

York Regional Police is proud to celebrate the 30^th anniversary of Police Appreciation Night.

The sold-out Police Appreciation Night was held on Thursday, May 8, 2025 at Universal Event Space in Vaughan, Ontario.

Thanks to the overwhelming and generous support of our donors, sponsors and community members, a total of $1.2 million has been raised for the beneficiaries of Police Appreciation Night, the York Region Centre for Community Safety and Victim Services of York Region.

“A heartfelt thank you to everyone who donated to Police Appreciation Night,” York Regional Police Chief Jim MacSween said. “These funds ensure our community partners can continue their invaluable, important work supporting victims of crime and other tragic circumstance in our region.”

During Police Appreciation Night, York Regional Police members – both sworn and civilian – are recognized for their outstanding work.

Each of the award winners have exemplified the York Regional Police values of professionalism, courage, compassion, fairness and respect, and have gone above and beyond the call of duty in their service to the community.

“This year’s award winners include officers who exemplified a great deal of bravery, even in challenging circumstances, and members who have made a lasting, positive impact on the community through their volunteer endeavours,” Chief MacSween said. “They have each embodied the service’s motto: Deeds Speak, and have set the bar high for their fellow colleagues.”

This year’s award winners include:

To learn more about Police Appreciation Night, and the award winners visit yrp.ca/PAN

Prepared by: James Dickson
May 9, 2025

YORK REGIONAL POLICE MARKS SPECIAL ANNIVERSARY ON INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY 2025

Sat, 08 Mar 2025 14:45:00 GMT

York Regional Police is using International Women’s Day to pay tribute to trailblazers and shine a light on a bright future for women policing in York Region.

In 1975, Joy Dennison made history as the first female officer in its ranks, paving the way for generations of women in policing. Now, 50 years on, women serve in nearly every area of the organization, from the front lines to senior leadership, including Deputy Chief Cecile Hammond, the first female deputy chief in YRP’s history.

Their contributions to community safety, leadership and policing excellence have been recognized across the country and internationally.

“I’m proud to lead and work in an organization where women are encouraged and empowered to break down barriers,” said Chief of Police Jim MacSween. “York Regional Police is in a better position now than ever before to support women in all branches of the organization, from the frontline all the way to the Executive Office.”

Today, York Regional Police is invested in numerous recruitment initiatives aimed at increasing the amount of female police officers hired. Programs include women-specific employment sessions hosted throughout the year, and a Fit 4 Prep training program that supports potential candidates in overcoming the physical challenges they may face while working toward their Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP) Certificate, a requirement of all police officers in Ontario.

The last women’s recruitment session, a “Mentor and Mingle” event hosted March 1, saw dozens of attendees benefit from interactions with recruiters, learning about the selection process, career paths at YRP, and receiving tips on applications and interviews.

Women currently account for roughly 21 percent of police officers at YRP, with a larger share working in civilian professional positions.

“We remain committed to driving that number upwards, because we know that our police service becomes stronger the more closely it reflects our community,” said Chief MacSween. “We will keep investing in programs that make our workplace more equitable, in turn making this career a more viable and desirable one for all women.”

To learn more about jobs at York Regional Police and to register for an employment event, visit yrp.ca/Careers.

Milestones for women in policing at YRP:

January 3, 1975: Constable Joy Dennison, formerly serving in Metropolitan Toronto, signs her oath of office to become the first female police officer at York Regional Police.

1988: Linda Doggett, hired six days after Dennison, becomes the first woman of rank at York Regional Police with her promotion to sergeant.

2002: Twenty years into her career, Denise LaBarge becomes the first woman to manage a platoon with her full-time promotion to the rank of staff sergeant.

2006: Karen Noakes is the first woman to reach senior command ranks at York Regional Police, being promoted to inspector. In 2014 as the officer-in-command of Support Services, Noakes is instrumental in helping two other women reach new positions: Constable Mandy Bambrough, who became the first woman to work as a handler in the Canine Unit; and Mina Rahravan, the first woman in the position of Tactical Flight Officer, serving in Air Support.

July 20, 2020: Cecile Hammond, who cites LaBarge and Noakes as inspirations and mentors, becomes the first woman to serve in the Executive Leadership Team with her appointment to the rank of deputy chief.

Photos: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/t8uc5vymhx8y63rkibqzv/AL0nQcX2364xSB45HVXVs0s?rlkey=zhar1aaiqw5d7js6x032r7s9h&st=5rwegbqs&dl=0

Prepared by:

Constable Lisa Moskaluk

March 8, 2025

YORK REGIONAL POLICE MARKS SPECIAL ANNIVERSARY ON
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY 2025

WITNESSES SOUGHT FOLLOWING FATAL COLLISION IN VAUGHAN

Fri, 20 Dec 2024 15:45:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Major Collision Investigations Unit are appealing for witnesses after a fatal collision in the City of Vaughan.

On Wednesday, December 18, 2024, at 11:23 p.m., officers responded to a report of a collision between two passenger vehicles in the area of Highway 27 and Rutherford Road.

Police and York Region Paramedic Services arrived at the scene and despite administering life-saving efforts, a 64-year-old male driver was pronounced deceased.

The driver of the second vehicle remained at the scene and was treated for minor injuries.

No charges have been laid at this time. The investigation is ongoing.

Investigators are appealing to any witnesses who have not yet spoken to police, and to anyone who may have dashcam footage of the area at the time of the collision, to please come forward.

Video can be uploaded through this link: https://yrp.ca.evidence.com/axon/community-request/public/24-398508 or by scanning the QR code.

Anyone with information is asked to call the York Regional Police Major Collision Investigations Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7704, or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. An anonymous tip can be left online at www.1800222tips.com.

Visit our Community Safety Data Portal for complete stats and crime data within York Region. Crime prevention is our shared responsibility. Learn more about Operation Streetview.

Prepared by: Constable Kevin Nebrija
24-398508
December 20, 2024

YORK REGIONAL POLICE PARTNER WITH BOLO PROGRAM IN CONNECTION WITH 2024 HOMICIDE

Wed, 04 Dec 2024 16:00:00 GMT

York Regional Police has partnered with the Bolo (Be on the lookout) Program to help locate a suspect wanted on a Canada-wide warrant in connection with the murder of a 16-year-old Quebec boy that occurred in York Region.

Through the partnership with Bolo, York Regional Police is seeking information that leads to the arrest Katherine BERGERON-PINZARRONE, 27, of Mississauga, who is wanted for one count of Second-Degree Murder. She is known to reside in Mississauga and Quebec.

On Thursday, August 8, 2024, at approximately 6 a.m., police were called to a local hospital after a victim arrived suffering from a stab wound. The victim was pronounced deceased a short time later. He is now identified as a 16-year-old male youth from the City of Montreal.

A Canada-wide arrest warrant remains in effect for BERGERON-PINZARRONE. If seen, do not approach her, instead call 9-1-1 immediately. The suspect is encouraged to seek legal counsel and turn herself in. Investigators are reminding the public that anyone who is, or has, assisted the suspect may be subject to criminal charges.

WANTED:

Katherine BERGERON-PINZARRONE, 27, Mississauga

DESCRIPTION:

Female
White
5’1”
122 lbs
Brown hair
Brown eyes

CHARGES:

Second Degree Murder

The Bolo Program is an initiative leveraging social media, technology and innovative engagement to raise awareness about wanted people and encourage citizens to be on the lookout for Canada’s most wanted.

“We are hopeful that this partnership with the Bolo Program will increase our chances of locating this violent offender,” said Chief Jim MacSween.

Video of today’s press conference can be found at this link: https://www.youtube.com/@bolocanada/streams

The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Homicide Unit Tip line at 1-866-287-5025, or email the Homicide Unit at homicide@yrp.ca, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
24-249690
December 4, 2024

YORK REGIONAL POLICE WINS PRESTIGIOUS IACP AWARD FOR OPERATION AUTO GUARD

Wed, 23 Oct 2024 18:00:00 GMT

York Regional Police was honoured to accept the Leadership in the Prevention of Vehicle Crimes Award from the International Association of Chiefs of Police at its annual conference held in Boston, Massachusetts.

The award, sponsored by General Motors (GM) and OnStar, recognizes outstanding achievement in preventing vehicle theft and showcases the connection between vehicle crime and subsequent violent crime. Agencies were evaluated on initiative, use of available resources and overall results.

Deputy Chief of Operations, Paulo Da Silva, accepted the award from GM/OnStar Public Safety and Engagement Strategy Manager Sherry LeVeque on Tuesday, October 21, 2024.

“This international award recognizes the innovative thinking and hard work of many York Regional Police members, across multiple units, to address the rise in auto thefts in our region,” said Chief Jim MacSween. “I’m proud of their efforts and our ongoing commitment to involve our community in our crime prevention programs.”

Operation Auto Guard, which ran in the fall of 2023, was a combined campaign of crime prevention efforts and targeted enforcement, with a focus on disrupting organized crime groups who steal vehicles and ship them overseas. It led to the recovery of 80 vehicles worth more than $5 million, with 56 people charged with almost 300 offences.

That initiative, and many others through 2023 and 2024, have made a significant impact on the number of auto thefts in York Region. As of August 31, 2024, there have been 1,868 vehicles stolen in York Region, down from 2,720 in 2023 - a 31 per cent decrease year over year.

The recently launched Auto Guard 2.0 builds on the success of last year’s operation, employing a multi-pronged approach that includes enforcement, active community engagement and proven crime prevention strategies. We are continuing to use a data-driven approach to identify hot spots for vehicle theft and YRP will focus enforcement and crime prevention efforts in these areas. Officers will also engage the community in public locations, such as shopping malls and recreation centres, handing out postcards with crime prevention tips in multiple languages, and Faraday bags, which block the signal-duplicating devices that replicate key fobs.

To access crime prevention materials in multiple languages and additional information on the campaign, visit yrp.ca/AutoGuard.

For more information, contact the Media Relations Unit at 1-866-876-54223, ext. 2664 or mediarelations@yrp.ca.

Visit our Community Safety Data Portal for complete stats and crime data within York Region. Crime prevention is our shared responsibility. Learn more about Operation Streetview.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
October 23, 2024

UPDATE - SUSPECT CHARGED IN HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION IN RICHMOND HILL

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 13:45:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Homicide Unit have charged a suspect in connection with a homicide investigation in the City of Richmond Hill.

On Saturday, September 21, 2024 at 8:25 a.m., police responded to a check-welfare call at a residence in the area of Gracedale Drive and Shaftsbury Avenue. When officers arrived on scene, they located 60-year-old Xiaomei WANG deceased inside the home.

Following a search, police located and arrested the suspect later that day, in the City of Toronto.

Charged:

Henry AI, 23, of Richmond Hill

Charge:

Second Degree Murder

Police are not looking for anyone else in relation to this incident.

The investigation is ongoing. The Homicide Unit is seeking assistance with obtaining any video surveillance footage available in the area of Gracedale Drive, near Shaftsbury Avenue, in Richmond Hill, between September 20, 2024, at 5 p.m. and September 21, 2024, at 9 a.m.

If you have footage to share, please do so through this link: https://yrp.ca.evidence.com/axon/community-request/public/24-300264 or by scanning the QR code.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Homicide Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7865, or email at homicide@yrp.ca, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.

Visit our Community Safety Data Portal for complete stats and crime data within York Region. Crime prevention is our shared responsibility. Learn more about Operation Streetview.

Prepared by: Constable Lisa Moskaluk

24-300264

September 24, 2024

SUSPECT SOUGHT FOLLOWING SEXUAL ASSAULT IN MARKHAM

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 18:45:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Special Victims Unit are searching for a suspect and witnesses after a sexual assault in the City of Markham.

On Monday, August 12, 2024, at approximately 12:15 a.m., a female victim was on a transit bus on Steeles Avenue. The victim noticed a male sitting at the front of the bus, holding a cellphone that was pointed in her direction.

The victim exited the bus at Shadlock Street and the suspect exited and followed the victim.

The suspect attempted to engage the victim in conversation when he touched her in a sexual manner. As the victim pushed the suspect away, he then exposed his genitals.

The victim was able to take a picture of the suspect who was last seen fleeing eastbound toward Markham Road.

Suspect:

Male, Middle Eastern
25 to 35 years
Approximately 5’11”, medium build, black beard
Wearing a yellow jacket with a dark front panel, black pants and grey/white sneakers
Carrying a case of bottled water

Use the following link for more information and to make an online report: https://www.yrp.ca/en/Online-Reporting.asp.

Anyone with information is asked to call the York Regional Police Special Victims Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7071, or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.

Visit our Community Safety Data Portal for complete stats and crime data within York Region. Crime prevention is our shared responsibility. Learn more about Operation Streetview.

Prepared by: Constable Kevin Nebrija
24-253899
September 12, 2024

UPDATE: CANADA-WIDE WARRANT ISSUED IN CONNECTION WITH THE MURDER OF YUK-YING ANITA MUI

Wed, 28 Aug 2024 16:00:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Homicide Unit have issued a Canada-wide warrant for 47-year-old Zhixiong Marko HU, wanted for First Degree Murder in connection with the disappearance and death of Yuk-Ying Anita MUI.

On Friday, August 9, 2024, MUI was reported missing by family after they had not heard from her since 11 a.m. Later that day, her white 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE450 sport utility vehicle (SUV) was located in the area of Finch Avenue East and Warden Avenue, in the City of Toronto.

On August 12, 2024, Ontario Provincial Police officers reported that burned human remains were located in the area of Avro Arrow Road and Highway 400, in the Town of Parry Sound. On August 21, 2024, the Office of the Chief Coroner positively identified the deceased as MUI.

Through investigation, it was learned that suspects were in possession of property belonging to MUI. As a result, three youths were charged with firearms and fraud-related offences. A fourth suspect has since been identified as being involved in her disappearance.

On August 27, 2024, a Canada-wide warrant for First Degree Murder was issued for 47-year-old ZhixiongMarko HU, from the City of Markham.

Investigators have seized two vehicles associated to HU, a white 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van with Ontario licence plate CWHW720 and a grey 2021 Porsche Cayenne SUV with Ontario licence plate CTZT172. Investigators also believe this Porsche may have had a different licence plate attached to it on August 9, 2024, or in the days leading up to that date. They are asking anyone who may information or may have seen these vehicles to please contact them.

Wanted:

Zhixiong Marko HU, 47, of City of Markham

Charge:

First Degree Murder

Vehicle 1:

White, 2019 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter van
Ontario licence plate CWHW720

Vehicle 2:

Grey, 2021 Porsche Cayenne SUV
Ontario licence plates CTZT172 and CHCD989

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Homicide Unit at 1-866-876-5423 ext. 7865, or email at homicide@yrp.ca, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.

Prepared by: Constable Lisa Moskaluk

24-251552

August 28, 2024

PUBLIC WARNING OF OPPORTUNITY THEFTS FROM VEHICLES

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 17:45:00 GMT

After a re-emergence of opportunity thefts, York Regional Police is reminding citizens to be cautious when leaving valuables in unattended vehicles.

In recent incidents, suspects follow the victims from banking institutions, automated teller machines or currency exchange locations until an opportunity presents itself for suspects to break into the victim’s vehicle or to approach and distract the victim before stealing valuables.

On Wednesday, June 19, 2024, at approximately 1:15 p.m. police responded to the area of Yonge Street and Jefferson Forest Drive in the City of Richmond Hill for the reports of a theft. The victim’s vehicle had been broken into and a quantity of cash had been stolen. Prior to parking his vehicle, the victim had attended a currency exchange location and had hidden cash in the vehicle, out of plain sight. It believed that the victim was followed from the currency exchange.

If you believe you are being followed after attending a money exchange location or financial institution, contact police for assistance.

York Regional Police would like to remind citizens to be cautious and protect themselves by following these tips:

Be wary of strangers approaching you in public to engage in conversation
Be aware of your surroundings and any vehicles or person that may be following you
Consider not leaving currency or valuables in unattended vehicles
Keep your valuables in a safe and secure place that would be difficult for someone to access
If you witness any suspicious people or activity, or are a victim, contact police immediately

Criminals are opportunists. Do not give them the opportunity to make you a victim of crime.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police #2 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7244, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.

Visit our Community Safety Data Portal for complete stats and crime data within York Region. Crime prevention is our shared responsibility. Learn more about Operation Streetview.

Prepared by: Constable James Dickson
24-190616
June 24, 2024

YOUTH FACING MULTIPLE CHARGES FOLLOWING ATTEMPTED CARJACKINGS IN VAUGHAN, ADDITIONAL SUSPECTS SOUGHT

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 17:15:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit are seeking additional suspects following two separate carjacking attempts in the City of Vaughan.

On Thursday, May 30, 2024, at 11:40 p.m., police attended a plaza in the area of Norwood Avenue and Jane Street for a report of an attempted carjacking.

Officers learned that the victim was in their vehicle at the intersection of Norwood Avenue and Jane Street. Two suspects walked up to the vehicle and tried to open the car door. One of the suspects appeared to be holding a silver handgun.

The victim managed to flee the scene toward a commercial plaza in the area. The suspects could not be located when officers arrived.

On Saturday, June 1, 2024, shortly before 5 p.m., two victims were entering their vehicle in a parking lot in the area of Jane Street and Rutherford Road. Two masked suspects approached and one suspect attempted to open the driver’s door and appeared to be brandishing a knife. The suspect demanded the victim hand over the car keys and to get out of the vehicle.

A second suspect approached the front passenger door, held it open and gestured he had a firearm. The suspect demanded the car keys and threatened to shoot the victims.

An off-duty police officer intervened and the suspects fled toward a local mall. There were no injuries.

The one suspect was located a short time later and taken into custody. A 15-year-old male youth, of Vaughan, was charged with both attempted carjackings.

See attached for the list of charges and outstanding suspect information.

Investigators would like to speak to anyone with video surveillance or dashcam footage in the area at the time of the incident.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Hold-Up Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6630, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or by leaving an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.

Visit our Community Safety Data Portal for complete stats and crime data within York Region. Crime prevention is our shared responsibility. Learn more about Operation Streetview.

Prepared by: Constable Kevin Nebrija
24-166749/168701
June 3, 2024

SUSPECT STILL SOUGHT IN JOINT INVESTIGATION INTO 2017 HOMICIDES IN VAUGHAN AND HAMILTON

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 09:00:00 GMT

A Canada-wide warrant remains in effect for a suspect wanted in connection with two 2017 homicides which occurred in the City of Vaughan and the City of Hamilton.

March 14, 2023 is the sixth anniversary of the tragic death of Mila BARBERI, 28, of Vaughan. On Tuesday, March 14, 2017, at approximately 4:12 p.m., York Regional Police responded to reports of a shooting on Caster Avenue in the area of Weston Road and Highway 7. Officers arrived on scene and located a male victim and an unresponsive female victim suffering from gunshot wounds. BARBERI was transported to hospital where she was pronounced deceased. The adult male victim was also transported to hospital with minor injuries but recovered.

Through the investigations, officers linked this homicide with the murder of Angelo MUSITANO who was shot and killed as he arrived home in his pick-up truck on May 2, 2017 in Hamilton.

That resulted in a multi-jurisdictional investigation dubbed project SCOPA, involving York Regional Police, the Hamilton Police Service and the Hamilton-Niagara detachment of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

A Canada-wide warrant was issued for the arrest of now 32-year-old Daniel TOMASSETTI in connection with these incidents. Investigators are asking anyone with information on his location to come forward. He is also being urged to consult with a lawyer and turn himself in.

The Hamilton Police Service Board has offered a $50,000 cash reward for information leading to the arrest and/ or conviction of Daniel TOMASSETTI.

WANTED:

Daniel TOMASSETTI, 32, of Ancaster

CHARGES:

Murder x2
Attempted Murder

Investigators are asking anyone with information to contact Hamilton Police Service Detective Nesreen Shawihat at 905-546-4863, contact the York Regional Police Homicide Unit at 1-866-876-5423 ext. 7865, email the Homicide Unit at homicide@yrp.ca, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.

Prepared by: Constable Laura Nicolle

17-74467

March 14, 2023

YORK REGIONAL POLICE PARTNER WITH BOLO PROGRAM IN CONNECTION WITH 2021 DOUBLE HOMICIDE

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 19:30:00 GMT

York Regional Police has partnered with the BOLO Program to help locate a suspect wanted on a Canada-wide warrant in connection with the murders of a Markham couple that occurred in the City of Vaughan in 2021.

Through the partnership with BOLO, a $50,000 reward has been offered for information that leads to the arrest Phuong Tan NGUYEN, aka: Mike, 37, of Toronto, wanted for two counts of First-Degree Murder. The BOLO Program is an initiative leveraging social media, technology and innovative engagement to raise awareness about wanted people and encourage citizens to be on the lookout for Canada’s most wanted

On Saturday, September 18, 2021, just after 5:30 p.m., Quoc TRAN and Kristy NGUYEN were killed in a targeted attack that occurred at 111 Zenway Boulevard in the City of Vaughan.

Through the investigation and thanks to tips from the public, a vehicle operated by the suspects was located and the driver was identified as Recaldo LIBURD of Vaughan. On Wednesday, September 29, 2021, he was arrested and charged with two counts of Accessory After the Fact of Murder. He remains in custody and is scheduled to appear before the Superior Court of Justice in Newmarket on July 17, 2023.

The investigation led officers to a lengthy search at the Twin Creeks Landfill and Environmental Center in Watford Ontario, where Quoc TRAN’s remains were recovered. A landfill in the USA has also been searched however, Kristy NGUYEN has still not been found.

A Canada-wide arrest warrant remains in effect for NGUYEN. He is considered armed and dangerous. If seen, do not approach him, instead call 9-1-1 immediately. The suspect is encouraged to seek legal counsel and turn himself in. Investigators are reminding the public that anyone who is, or has, assisted the suspect may be subject to criminal charges.

WANTED:

Phuong Tan NGUYEN (aka: Mike) 37, of Toronto

DESCRIPTION:

5’9”, 180 lbs.
Medium build
Short black hair
Brown eyes

CHARGES:

First Degree Murder x2

“We are hopeful that this partnership with the BOLO Program, and the $50,000 reward, will increase our chances of locating Kristy and bring us closer to arresting this violent offender,” said Chief Jim MacSween.

Video of today’s press conference can be found at this link: https://youtu.be/oyF8vftZY5g

Prepared by: Constable Laura Nicolle

21-323996

January 12, 2023

UPDATE - ARREST MADE IN ONGOING HOMICIDE INVESTIGATION IN CONNECTION WITH THE DISAPPEARANCE OF MARKHAM COUPLE

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 16:15:00 GMT

Investigators with the York Regional Police Homicide Unit have recovered a body and made an arrest in connection with an ongoing homicide investigation in the City of Vaughan.

Quoc TRAN and Kristy NGUYEN were victims of foul play in a targeted attack and were murdered at 111 Zenway Boulevard in Vaughan, where they were last seen around 5:30 p.m., on Saturday, September 18, 2021.

Investigators released photos of the suspect and thanks to tips from the public, the vehicle was located and the driver was identified. On Wednesday, September 29, 2021, Recaldo LIBURD, was arrested and charged with two counts of Accessory After the Fact of Murder.

Through investigation, the remains of one body has been recovered at Twin Creeks Landfill and Environmental Center in Watford Ontario. Investigators continue efforts to recover the second body, which is believed to be at the same location.

A Canada-wide arrest warrant remains in effect for the suspect Phuong Tan NGUYEN, who is considered armed and dangerous. If seen, do not approach him, instead call 9-1-1 immediately. The suspect is encouraged to seek legal counsel and turn himself in. Investigators are reminding the public that anyone who is, or has, assisted the suspect may be subject to criminal charges.

CHARGED:

Recaldo LIBURD, 36, of Vaughan

CHARGES:

Accessory After The Fact Of Murder x2

WANTED:

Phuong Tan NGUYEN (aka: Mike), 35, of Toronto

CHARGES:

First Degree Murder x2

LIBURD is currently in custody and scheduled for his next court appearance on Thursday, October 14, 2021, at the Newmarket Superior Court of Justice.

Prepared by: Constable Maniva Armstrong

21-323996

October 1, 2021

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.