 By Staff
December 12th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
Earlier this year, the Government of Canada introduced Bill C-46, the most comprehensive reform to the Criminal Code transportation regime in more than 40 years. The new law is a modern, simplified, and more coherent system of reforms to better deter and detect drug and alcohol-impaired driving.
 The elements of Bill C-46 related to drug-impaired driving came into force on June 21, 2018. The legislation authorizes police to use additional tools, such as roadside oral fluid drug screeners, enacts new driving offences of being over a prohibited blood drug concentration, and allows for blood samples to be collected without first requiring a driver to undergo a drug recognition evaluation.
The part of the legislation related to alcohol-impaired driving will come into force on December 18, 2018.
These amendments include, but are not limited to, the introduction of mandatory alcohol screening and the introduction of some new and higher mandatory minimum fines and some higher maximum penalties for impaired driving.
Mandatory Alcohol Screening
There have been many questions regarding mandatory alcohol screening. Currently, police officers must have reasonable suspicion that a driver has alcohol in their body before conducting a roadside test. As of December 18, 2018, police officers with an Approved Screening Device (ASD) on hand can require any lawfully-stopped driver to provide a breath sample, even without reasonable suspicion that the driver has alcohol in their body. This would be completed after the person has been lawfully stopped pursuant to authority (common law or provincial Highway Traffic Act).
 The rules on driving impaired are about to change – tougher as well. Research suggests that up to 50 per cent of drivers with a blood alcohol concentration above the legal limit are not detected at roadside check stops. Mandatory alcohol screening provides a mechanism for better detection of those who choose to drink and get behind the wheel of a vehicle.
Note: A driver who refuses to provide a sample would be subject to a criminal offence (and a mandatory minimum $2,000 fine).
Penalties for Impaired Driving as of December 18, 2018
The proposed legislation would enact some new and higher mandatory minimum fines, and some higher maximum penalties.
 Refer to the attached chart for a summary of the new penalties (source).
Shared Responsibility: Impaired driving is the leading criminal cause of death and injury in Canada.
Community safety is a shared responsibility, and we encourage residents and visitors to continue to work with us to reduce impaired driving. Impaired driving is considered a crime in progress. If you witness suspected impaired driving, please call 9-1-1 to report it.
By Staff
December 7th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
 RIDE program now in force in HAlton Region On December 4, 2018, just before 9:30 pm, Halton Police officers were conducting a RIDE initiative in the area of North Service Road and the Highway 407 overpass in Burlington. As a result of an investigation, Ian Overend (42) of Burlington was charged with driving over 80mgs.
On December 5, 2018, just before 9:30 pm, Halton Police officers initiated a traffic stop in area of Mountain Grove Avenue and Upper Middle Road in Burlington. As a result of an investigation, Christopher Maguire (43) of Burlington was charged with driving while ability impaired and driving over 80mgs.
The Halton Regional Police Service remains committed to road safety through prevention, education and enforcement initiatives.
Members of the public are reminded that driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol is a crime in progress and to call 9-1-1 immediately to report a suspected impaired driver.
Police services across Ontario are now issuing media releases naming those charged with driving offences.
 By Staff
December 7th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
Pay Pal is a service that many people use, especially when they want to transfer funds to people or places out of the country.
While it is a little on the pricey side – it is convenient and it works. There are a lot of small companies that rely on it.
The Gazette uses the service. Seeing an email advising us that a payment has been received is not an unusual thing.
So when this message advised that a payment had arrived it would have been natural to click on the message.
That would have been an expensive click for us. The message was phony. What were the clues. Look at the message:
Looks legit – but look again at the message line that is at the top of every eamil – telling you who it came from:
By Staff
December 5th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
On December 3rd 2018, the Hasty Market Convenience store located at 4265 Thomas Alton Blvd. in Burlington was robbed.
 Shortly after 7:30 PM, two males, one armed with a knife, entered the store and ordered an employee and customer to move aside while they stole a quantity of vaping products from behind the counter. The suspects then fled the store on foot and were last seen running northbound through the parking lot.
Police searched the area and located one of the males who had stolen property from the robbery in his possession. Through further investigation, the second male was identified and has since been arrested.
Two youths aged 15 and 17 who cannot be identified because of their age are charged with robbery and wearing a disguise during the commission of an offence. One of the youths was also charged with possession of property obtained by crime. One was held for a bail hearing while the other was released on a Promise to Appear in Milton Youth Court on January 3rd 2019.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Detective Constable Gina Brunelle of the Burlington Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4747 ext. 2364.
Tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers “See something, Hear something, Say something” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca, or by texting “Tip201” with your message to 274637 (crimes).
By Staff
December 5th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
Some really dirty stuff coming out of the Halton Region Police offices.
During the month of November, members of the Halton Regional Police Internet Child Exploitation Unit (ICE) participated in a Provincial initiative along with 26 other police services across Ontario. The focus of the initiative was to Protect Children from Sexual Abuse and Exploitation on the Internet
During that time, the ICE unit took part in numerous investigations resulting in a number of arrests, search warrants and electronic seizures within Halton Region.
Arrested and charged parties are as follows:
Christopher HARVIE – 42 years old of Burlington, charged with: Possession of Child Pornography x 2, Make Available Child Pornography, and Access Child Pornography
Eric PARSONS – 30 years old of Hamilton, charged with: Luring, Invitation to Sexual Touching, Possession of Child Pornography
Gary HORNER – 67 years old of Toronto, charged with: Luring, Invitation to Sexual touching
Anthony (Tony) DAWKINS – 60 years old of Georgetown, charged with: Possession of Child Pornography x 2, Make available Child Pornography, Access Child Pornography
William MATHERS – 42 years of Milton, charged with: Luring, Invitation to Sexual Touching, Making Sexually Explicit Material Available to a Child
Liam Murphy – 22 years old of Oakville, charged with: Luring, Invitation to Sexual Touching, Making Sexually Explicit Material Available to a Child
Jianbo HONG – 41 years old of Oakville, charged with: Possession of Child Pornography x 2, Make Available Child Pornography, and Access Child Pornography
Halton Regional Police Service reminds parents to be vigilant when monitoring their children’s online activities, and to discuss internet safety strategies with them.
Anyone who may have any additional information pertaining to these types of investigations are asked to contact D/Sgt Chris Newcombe 905-465-8965 or Det. Todd Martin 905-465-8983 of the Halton Regional Police Service Internet Child Exploitation Unit (I.C.E.).
These investigations have been funded and made possible through a grant from the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services.
Tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers “See Something? Hear Something? Know Something?” Contact “Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca
Please be reminded that all persons charged are presumed
By Staff
November 30th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
On Monday November 5th 2018 the Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Unit (CASA) commenced an investigation after a 13 year old male disclosed that he was sexually assaulted while using the washroom at The Bay in the Burlington Mall – 777 Guelph Line. (The Mall has officially been renamed the Burlington Centre.)
On November 4th sometime between 3:00pm and 5:00pm, while in the washroom, the victim advised that he was approached by a white male, 30-40 years of age, with spiked blonde hair with a goatee. The male was wearing jeans, and a blue and white T-shirt with running shoes. At this time the victim was sexually assaulted.
Police would like to remind the public to be vigilant with their safety and report any suspicious incidents to police immediately.
Police are asking anyone with information regarding this or similar incidents to contact the Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Unit – Detective Sergeant Chris Newcombe at 905-465-8965 or Detective Constable Mark Werner at 905-465-8747.
Tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers “See Something? Hear Something? Know Something? Contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca
By Staff
November 30th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police Service are currently investigating a bank robbery that occurred in Burlington.
 Electric charging station outside the ScotiaBank that was robbed Thursday afternoon. Shortly after 4pm on November 29, 2018, police officers responded to the ScotiaBank branch located at 4011 New Street in the City of Burlington after a 911 call was placed reporting that the bank had just been robbed by one suspect.
One suspect entered the bank and jumped over the top the of the counter after ordering the tellers to open tills in order to obtain money. No weapons were seen, no one was injured and an undisclosed sum of money was taken.
Suspect fled the bank on foot North through the plaza before fleeing in a waiting vehicle.
Suspect #1 Description:
• Male
• Tanned Skin
• Early 20s
• Black Ski Mask over face
• Wearing white hooded sweatshirt that had black sleeves with red lettering up and down the sleeves, wearing black gloves
• Dark coloured pants with dark coloured shoes
• Carrying a small black canvas bag
Suspect Vehicle Description
• Older Style Brown Buick Regal driven by unidentified second suspect.
Both suspects remain outstanding at this time.
Anyone with information related to this incident is asked to contact Detective Steve Siomra at 30 Division Criminal Investigations Bureau 905 825 4747 Ext. 2343.
Tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers “See Something? Hear Something? Know Something? Contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca
By Staff
November 29th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
Following a lengthy trial and conviction, an accused has been sentenced to serve ten and a half years in jail for charges related to drug importation.
In the fall of 2016, Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) intercepted three packages from India and Malaysia. One was destined for a multinational package delivery company in Georgetown, Ontario, and the other two for a mailbox store in Port Perry, Ontario. The three packages contained a total of 990 grams of concealed heroin.
On November 7, 2016, Innocent ANNIH (49) of Toronto attended the package delivery company in Georgetown, attempted to retrieve the package, and was arrested by the Halton Regional Police Service.
The Halton Regional Police Service’s Drug and Morality Unit conducted a further investigation into each of the three heroin shipments, which resulted in further evidence being obtained against ANNIH.
On September 28, 2018, following a two week trial, Superior Court Judge Conlan convicted ANNIH of Conspiracy to Import Heroin, and two counts of Attempted Possession of Heroin for the Purpose of Trafficking.
On November 23, 2018, Judge Conlan sentenced ANNIH to ten and a half years in jail.
“The Halton Regional Police Service applauds this sentence, the length of which reflects directly on the seriousness of these opioid-related crimes,” said Inspector Kevin Maher, Regional Investigative Services.
“The removal of a heroin importer from our streets is a real and tangible success in our ongoing deployment of upstream efforts to ensure that the safety and well-being of the residents of Halton remains intact.”
By Staff
November 29th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police Service are still receiving reports of purse thefts. In most occurrences the suspects targeted female, older adults whose purses and/or wallets were stolen from their shopping carts while they were distracted in some fashion.
 On Sunday November 25th 2018 Gentiana STOJKOVA (18-yrs) of Czech Republic, residing in Brampton was arrested by members of Burlington Uniform Patrol for a purse theft at the Wal-Mart on Dundas Street. They were assisted by members of the public and two off duty Halton Regional Police officers.
STOJKOVA was also charged for a purse theft that occurred on October 19th 2018 at the Fresco on Upper Middle in Burlington. Other theft investigations are on-going at this time and further charges are possible.
STOJKOVA was held for bail for the two charges of Theft Under $5000.
Halton Regional Police are reminding residents to be aware of their surroundings and stay alert for distraction type thefts when shopping in the grocery stores, malls and other retail business.
Anyone with information regarding these incidents or other purse thefts is asked to contact Detective Constable Derek Gray of the Burlington Criminal Investigations Bureau – Vulnerable Persons and Seniors Liaison Team at 905-825-4747 ext. 2344.
Tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers “See Something? Hear Something? Know Something? Contact Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca.
By Staff
November 28th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
On November 27th 2018 at approximately 4:30 PM, police responded to a report of a robbery in the area of Mountainside Drive and Maryvale Court in Burlington.
Police arrived on scene and spoke with a 15-year-old male who had been robbed of a gold chain which he was attempting to sell through “Letgo”, a buy & sell website.
During the attempted sales transaction, the suspect reached into the vehicle he arrived in, pulled out a pellet gun and demanded the victim surrender the chain.
The victim grabbed onto the pellet gun and threw it to the ground after which a struggle ensued. The suspect then fled in the vehicle with the gold chain.
The vehicle operated by the suspect had been stolen from the Dundas area of Hamilton overnight on November 25th to 26th. This vehicle was later located by police abandoned on Lansdowne Drive in Burlington.
On November 28th 2018 at 12:40 AM, police arrested the suspect, a 15-year-old youth from Hamilton who cannot be identified because of his age. He was later released on a Promise to Appear in Milton Youth Court on December 27th 2018 charged with robbery, using an imitation firearm during the commission of an offence and possession of property obtained by crime under $5000.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is asked to contact Detective Constable Mark Urie of the Burlington Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4747 ext. 2338.
Tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers “See something, Hear something, Say something” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca, or by texting “Tip201” with your message to 274637 (crimes).
By Staff
November 25th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
We still haven’t learned.
On November 19, 2018 just after 7:30 am, Halton Police officers initiated a traffic stop in area of New Street and Timber Lane in Burlington. As a result of an investigation, Paul Wybywanez (42) of Burlington was charged with driving over 80mgs.
 Being stopped isn’t a problem – being impaired and being stopped is a serious problem for the driver of a vehicle. On November 19, 2018 just after 9:30 am, Halton Police officers responded to a citizen-initiated complaint in the area of Harvester Road and Appleby Line in Burlington. As a result of an investigation, Avtar Khehra (60) of Burlington was charged with driving while ability impaired and fail or refuse to provide sample.
On November 19, 2018 just before 8:30 pm, Halton Police officers responded to a collision in the area of Trafalgar Road and Ceremonial Drive in Oakville. As a result of an investigation, Felicia Ryan (33) of Milton was charged with fail or refuse to provide sample.
On November 19, 2018 just after 8:30 pm, Halton Police officers responded to a citizen-initiated complaint in the area of Guelph Street and Hall Road in Halton Hills. As a result of an investigation, Gregory Fuller (84) of Halton Hills was charged with driving over 80mgs.
On November 21, 2018 just after 5:30 pm, Halton Police officers responded to a citizen-initiated complaint in the area of Main Street South and Maple Avenue in Halton Hills. As a result of an investigation, Daniel Duplantis (28) of Fergus was charged with care or control while ability impaired and care or control over 80mgs.
On November 21, 2018 just after 7:00 pm, Halton Police officers responded to a collision in the area of Derry Road and Trafalgar Road in Milton. As a result of an investigation, Colleen Connally (36) of Milton was charged with driving while ability impaired and driving over 80mgs.
Each of these incidents could have become fatal for anyone struck by the driver of the vehicle.
Drink if you wish, ingest or inhale anything that is legal – just don’t drive.
And impress upon you Member of Parliament how strong your feelings are on this issue. Bigger fines, longer license suspensions and an even deeper disgust on the part of the public can and will in time bring about a change.
Burlington’s MP is Karina Gould. Email – Karina.Gould@parl.gc.ca
The Oakville North Burlington MP is Pam Damoff. Email – Pam.Damoff@parl.gc.ca
Members of the public are reminded that driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol is a crime in progress and to call 9-1-1 immediately to report a suspected impaired driver.
By Staff
November 23rd, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
There have been 130 reports of purse thefts made to the Halton Regional Police Service since the beginning of November 2017.
In these occurrences the suspects targeted female, older adults whose purses and/or wallets were stolen from their shopping carts while they were distracted in some fashion.
 Nicole Wereszczynska – arrested for purse snatching. On November 20th 2018 Nicole Wereszczynska (24-yrs) of Mississauga was arrested by members of Burlington Criminal Investigation Bureau for a wallet theft that occurred on October 24th 2018 at Food Basics.
Halton Regional Police were assisted by our Retail loss prevention partners using the ‘Retail C.O.P.’ (Cameras on Patrol) program in identifying the accused.
Nicole Wereszczynska was released on a Promise to Appear in Milton Court on December 19th 2018 for one count of theft under $5000.
 Unidentified purse snatching suspect Halton Regional Police are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying the other male in the image who was with the accused and is involved in this wallet theft.
Halton Regional Police are reminding residents to be aware of their surroundings and stay alert for distraction type thefts when shopping in the grocery stores, malls and other retail business.
Anyone with information regarding these incidents or other purse thefts is asked to contact Detective Constable Derek Gray of the Burlington Criminal Investigations Bureau – Vulnerable Persons and Seniors Liaison Team at 905-825-4747 ext. 2344.
Tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers “See something, Hear something, Say something” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca, or by texting “Tip201” with your message to 274637 (crimes).
By Staff
November 15th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
On November 14th 2018 shortly after midnight, police responded to simultaneous alarms from Starbucks and Pita Pit located at 3051 Walkers Line (near Dundas St.) in Burlington.
Upon arrival, officers observed the glass doors to both businesses smashed and confirmed break and enters had occurred and the suspects were no longer present. The investigation revealed that both entries were done at the same time by two separate suspects who targeted cash registers however both left empty handed.
At approximately 12:20 AM, an observant officer located a suspicious male near a closed restaurant in the area of Appleby Line and Dundas Street. The male was arrested and found to be in possession of keys to a GMC Savanna van which was quickly located unoccupied behind another plaza in the area of Appleby Line and Taywood Dr.
After further investigation, it was determined that the van had been recently stolen from a U-Haul business in Brampton and that the man arrested was the same man that broke into Starbucks.
Christopher Michael HANN (35-Yrs) of Brampton was held for bail charged with break & enter, possession of break-in instruments, theft of motor vehicle, possession of property obtained by crime over $5000 and two counts of breaching probation.
The suspect that broke into Pita Pit was not located however he is believed to be involved in a subsequent break and enter. At approximately 12:37 AM, police received a call from a witness who observed a silver or light blue SUV smash into the rear glass doors of Mindy Nail Salon located at 414 Plains Rd. E in Burlington.
Two men were observed entering the business and stole $270 worth of equipment including nail dryers, fingernail fan and files before fleeing the scene in the vehicle.
Suspect #1 (also believed to be involved in the Pita Pit entry) is described as a white male, approximately 6′ tall, medium build, wearing a light coloured zipped hoodie, black pants, white shoes and thin gloves.
Suspect #2 is described as a white male, approximately 6′ tall, medium build, wearing an orange construction safety style shirt with florescent yellow X pattern on the front and back, black pants, dark shoes, toque and thin gloves.
Anyone with information is asked to contact D/Cst. Dave Griffiths of the Burlington Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4747 Ext. 2350.
Tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers “See Something? Hear Something? Know Something? Contact Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca .
By Staff
November 14th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
In the blink of an eye, any impaired driver can ruin lives forever. Horrific and heartbreaking headlines of impaired driving aftermath never seem to end, and it affects us all. Worst of all, it is completely preventable. Crime Stoppers can help.
With the recent legalization of cannabis in Canada, the potential for drug impairment on our roads, trails, and waterways may increase – driving high is no different from driving drunk or driving under the influence of other drugs. Impaired is impaired.
According to Halton Police, there have been 500 impaired driving arrests in Halton Region so far this year. That number will, unfortunately, only increase as we head into the busy holiday season.
If you suspect an impaired driver on the road, please call 9-1-1 to report it directly and immediately to police.
So how can Crime Stoppers help? If you know of, or suspect, an habitual impaired driver (whether alcohol, cannabis, or other drugs) and wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers. So far this year, impaired driving tips to Halton Crime Stoppers have resulted in license suspensions, criminal charges, vehicle impoundments, and several other Highway Traffic Act offences. Those tips directly helped improve the safety of our roads and communities, and they may have prevented the next horrific and heartbreaking headline.
David Wood, director of Halton Crime Stoppers, said this is just one opportunity for the community and Crime Stoppers to drive community safety in Halton.
“Our mission is to reduce crime in Halton Region through community education and engagement in partnership with the public, the police, and the media and by providing citizens the ability to provide information with guaranteed anonymity to deter and solve crime, with rewards offered for tips that lead to an arrest,” Wood said.
“We appreciate the impaired driving tips we receive from the public and are proud that these tips can and do directly translate into effective action by Halton Police to get impaired drivers off our roads”.
Wood said Crime Stoppers is a citizen-run charitable organization that has helped police maintain Halton as one of the safest regions in Canada. “Our board routinely authorizes reward payments for anonymous tips that solve or deter crime,” Wood added. “We want the public to know that Crime Stoppers operates 24 hours a day, 365 days per year, so people in the community can anonymously provide information that police may need to solve and deter crime. Callers are never asked to identify themselves and never have to testify in court because their anonymity is guaranteed.”
Wood said Crime Stoppers is only successful because people make the effort to call the tip line to provide information that can help solve crime and keep our keep our communities safe.
 Detective Constable Jodi Richmond, Coordinator, Crime Stoppers of Halton Tips can be submitted Halton Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or by visiting www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca.
For more information, please contact:
Contact: Detective Constable Jodi Richmond
Coordinator
Crime Stoppers of Halton
By Staff
November 14th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police along with other area police services were experiencing a rash of roof-top commercial break and enters into various retail businesses.
Since October 4th 2018, there have been 13 reported entries or attempted entries between Halton, Peel, York, Waterloo and Hamilton.
Investigators from the involved police services have been working closely and sharing information which ultimately led to the identification of three persons responsible for many of these entries.
On November 12th 2018, Halton Regional Police investigators arrested three men and executed three search warrants on homes and a rental car that resulted in the seizure of stolen property, break and enter tools and a large quantity of cash.
The investigation is ongoing to determine if others persons are involved and/or if additional charges are to be laid.
Armend HYSENI (25-yrs) of Hamilton and Flamur HAZIRI (30-yrs) of Kitchener are both charged with six counts of break and enter while Milaim BRANTON (34-yrs) of Hamilton is charged with six counts of break and enter and one count of possession of break-in instruments.
All three men were released on a Promise to Appear with an Undertaking and will appear in Milton Court on December 12th 2018.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Clay Gillis the Burlington Criminal Investigations Bureau – Commercial Crime Team at 905-825-4747 Ext. 2307.
Tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers “See Something? Hear Something? Know Something? Contact Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca .
By Staff
November 12th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) has a new tool to help identify suspects of retail thefts occurring in the Region. The HRPS is the first service in Ontario to leverage a website dubbed ‘Retail C.O.P.’ (Cameras on Patrol).
Images of suspects in retail thefts are uploaded to the secure site, along with brief suspect descriptions.
 Retail security cameras capture the data – police can analyze and frequently identify suspects. These images are typically gathered from retail store surveillance cameras. Loss prevention officers are then provided access to the website in hopes of helping to identify suspects. Any tips are sent to the HRPS Retail Theft Unit for investigation.
To date, the HRPS has invited and trained more than one hundred loss prevention officers from across Ontario to take part in the program.
This program provides retailers, security, loss prevention and law enforcement agencies opportunities to identify offenders and through education, reduce and prevent organized retail crime, and prosecute identified offenders.
How is it working so far? “Fantastic” said Inspector Bob Gourley, 3 District Operations. “. By tapping into the knowledge and experience of the loss prevention officers on the ground in stores across Halton we are taking advantage of a previously underutilized resource.”
 Security cameras capture some of the thefts – the information is shared with retail security people who can aid the police in arrests. Retail theft costs Canadians $4 billion every year, with costs being passed on to consumers. This year to date, there have been more than one thousand occurrences of retail theft reported to police in Halton.
By Staff
November 3rd, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police Service Set to Launch 2018 Crime Prevention Week – Help Us Help You
The Halton Regional Police Service will be kicking off Ontario’s annual Crime Prevention Week, which runs between November 4 and 10, 2018. The week-long promotion of crime prevention is supported by the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP), the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services, and all police services across Ontario.
 Halton Regional Police Senior Command cutting a celebratory cake during the opening of the new police HQ. From the left are: Roger Wilkie and Deputy Chief of District Operations Nishan Duraiappah, Deputy Chief Regional operations and Chief Stephen Tanner. Police Chief Stephen Tanner said: “We know from experience that crime prevention works. When police partner with community agencies and engage with their residents to stop crime in its tracks, everyone wins.
“We are proud that Halton Region has maintained the lowest crime severity index in Canada for 13 straight years. But the bolstering of community safety and well-being takes hard work and collaboration.
“That’s why the Halton Regional Police Service is proud to partner with government, community leaders, young people, and businesses to prevent crime throughout our community.”
By Staff
November 2nd, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police Service provides Police Record Checks to all residents of the Region of Halton, for volunteer or employment purposes. This service is most efficiently obtained ONLINE or you may attend one of our five police facilities.
On November 1, 2018, the Police Record Checks Reform Act will come into force, ensuring a clear, consistent and comprehensive set of standards to govern how police record checks are conducted and disclosed in Ontario.
The Halton Regional Police Service offers three types of Police Record Checks for the members of the public who reside in the Halton Region. If you are unsure as to which Record Check you need to complete, please see our website.
• Criminal Record Check – Learn more or apply online now.
• Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check – Learn more or apply online now.
• Vulnerable Sector Check – Learn more or apply online now.
The Impact on Youth Record Checks
These standards also include how police services release Police Record Checks containing youth records to applicants. Up until now, police services have released a Police Record Check containing youth records directly to the applicant who then provides the Police Record Check to the organization or volunteer agency. The federal and provincial government has found this approach to be contrary to the Federal Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA).
 As of November 1, 2018, youth can only apply for a Police Record Check if:
A. The youth is applying for purposes of employment or volunteering directly with:
• the Government of Canada;
• the Government of a province; or
• a Municipality;
OR
B. The youth requires their own youth records for their own personal information (Privacy Request).
The Halton Regional Police Service will only provide Police Record Checks to applicants under the age of 18 for government positions.
What does this mean for Non-Government Agencies and Youth Seeking to work or volunteer at these organizations?
Effective November 1, 2018, non-government agencies are not authorized to receive any youth Police Record Check results. Similarly, youth are no longer required to undertake a Police Record Check for volunteer or paid employment with these agencies. To require applicants to apply and pay for a Police Record Check when no results will be released is not in the best interest of the applicants, the police service or the community.
Non-government agencies will now have to proceed with alternative application steps, such as interviews and references for youths, and not rely on, either in part or solely, a Police Record Check, as they may have in the past.
For more information about Police Record Checks, please visit our website:
You are also invited to contact our office directly with your inquiries:
Information and Records Services
2485 North Service Road West
Oakville, ON L6M 0Y3
P: 905-825-4777 ext. 4712
By Staff
October 31st, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
On October 25th 2018 members of the Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Unit concluded their investigation with the identification of the male party responsible for committing the sexual assault.
Donald Williams, 75 years of age and lived in Burlington, was arrested and charged with one count of sexual assault. He was released from custody with a November court date.
It should be noted that the accused is employed by Burlington Taxi, and met the victim while driving for the company.
If you have additional information regarding this incident, you are asked to contact the Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Unit; Detective Sergeant Chris Newcombe at 905-465-8965 or Detective Constable Mark Werner at 905-465-8947.
Tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers “See Something? Hear Something? Know Something?” Contact “Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca
In an earlier media release the Halton Regional Police Service reported they were investigating a sexual assault that occurred on Claridge Road, in the City of Burlington. On July 27th 2018 at approximately 7:00 PM, the male suspect attended the adult female victim’s apartment complex and made contact with her. The two parties had spoken on one occasion prior to the incident, so the male was invited into the victim’s residence, at which point she was sexually assaulted.
The male initially introduced himself as “Bernie”, and then stated that his name was actually “Martin”. He stated that that he lived in the area.
The police were successful in finding the suspect and charges were laid.
By Staff
October 26th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
Car thefts and catching the criminals has kept the Burlington detachment of the Regional Police busy.
On October 19th 2018, at approximately 12:30 AM, a uniformed patrol officer located a Mazda CX-5 reported stolen out of Peel Region was located in the rear parking lot of the Motel 6 at 4345 North Service Road in Burlington.
Officers identified a room linked to the stolen vehicle and upon approaching the room, a man and women fled on foot. The woman was quickly arrested exiting the motel while the male was arrested as he was trying to enter a Ford pick-up truck that was driving though the front lot.
The pickup truck sped away but was quickly stopped by an officer whose vehicle was positioned in a manner that blocked the truck from exiting the lot. A female driver and two male passengers were arrested.
A subsequent search of the involved vehicles, room and arrested persons resulted in the seizure of a small quantity of crystal meth, stolen property (dealer licence plate, gift cards, credit/debit cards & car keys) and break-in tools (window punch, bolt cutters, walkie-talkies & headlamps).
The subsequent investigation determined the five persons arrested were responsible for breaking into cars throughout Halton and Peel Regions.
Arrested and charged are:
Fernando MUCCI (20-yrs) of No Fixed Address (formerly of Brampton) was held for bail and remanded into custody. He will appear next by video on November 5th 2018 charged with:
• Theft of vehicle
• Theft under $5000 (15 counts)
• Use stolen credit card (7 counts)
• Possession of property obtained by crime under $5000
• Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000 (5 counts)
• Fraud under $5000
• Possession of a controlled substance (crystal meth)
• Fail to comply with probation (6 counts)
Catherine EDWARDS (20-yrs) of No Fixed Address (formerly of Mississauga) was released on a recognizance of bail to appear in Milton court next on November 14th 2018 charged with:
• Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000
• Possession of a controlled substance (crystal meth)
• Assault peace officer
• Fail to comply with undertaking
Tyrone MORGAN (31-yrs) of Mississauga was held for bail and subsequently released on an undertaking to appear in Milton Court on November 14th 2018 charged with:
• Obstruct peace officer
• Possession of property obtained by crime under $5000
• Possession of break in instruments
• Fail to comply with undertaking
Essam HAJJAR (38-yrs) of Oakville was held for bail and subsequently released on an undertaking to appear in Milton Court on November 14th 2018 charged with:
• Possession of property obtained by crime under $5000
• Possession of break in instruments
• Fail to comply with undertaking
Michelle Nadine GARCIA (27-yrs) of Toronto was held for bail and subsequently released on a recognizance of bail to appear in Milton Court on November 14th 2018 charged with:
• Possession of property obtained by crime under $5000
• Possession of break in instruments
On October 24th 2018, at approximately 12:10 AM, a uniformed patrol officer located a stolen Infiniti G37X from Peel Region in the parking lot of the Knights Inn at 517 Plains Rd. E in Burlington.
Officers identified a room linked to the stolen vehicle that resulted in three persons subsequently being arrested. A search of the stolen vehicle resulted in the seizure of property believed to have been stolen from residential break and enters and theft from autos in Halton and Peel Regions. Items recovered are car keys, identification, cell phones, I-pods, change, medication and jewelry.
Arrested and charged are:
Catherine EDWARDS (20-yrs) of Mississauga was held for bail charged with:
• Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000
Jonathan BASTA (30-yrs) of Mississauga was released on a recognizance of bail to appear in Milton Court on November 21st 2018 charged with:
• Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000
Stephanie MONIZ (24-yrs) of Hamilton was released on a recognizance of bail to appear in Milton Court on November 21st 2018 charged with:
• Possession of property obtained by crime under $5000
Police are still investigating the seized property and additional charges are expected.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Burlington Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4747 Ext. 2316.
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