 By Staff
January 26th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) 1 District Criminal Investigations Bureau has completed an investigation into a series of retail thefts and robberies that took place throughout the region.
Suspects in these occurrences entered retail stores and stole large quantities of merchandise including high end fragrances, formula and energy drinks (see attached photo). In some instances, when confronted by staff the suspects utilized threats or violence to aid their escape.
Stores were targeted in Milton, Oakville and Burlington.
On January 24, 2021, investigators arrested executed two warrants (one at a residence in Toronto and a second at a retail store in Toronto).
William Berry (40) of Carrying Place has been arrested and charged with:
• Robbery (x3)
• Theft Under $5000
Marc Sestito (32) of North York has been arrested and charged with:
• Robbery (x2)
• Theft Under $5000
Du Xu (39) of Toronto has been arrested and charged with:
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5000
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime under $5000 for the Purpose of Trafficking
 All three have been held in custody pending a bail hearing.
Anyone with information in regards to this investigation is asked to contact the 1 District Criminal Investigations Unit at 905-825-4777 ext. 2416.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously 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
January 18th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
 A one month drug investigation by the Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) – 3 District Street Crime Unit has resulted in the arrest of two males.
With the assistance of area residents, investigators were able to identify a group of individuals who were trafficking drugs in the area of Marley Crescent and Francis Road in Burlington.
The following individuals have been arrested and charged:
Scott Ross (27) of Burlington
• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (6 counts) – Cocaine, Fentanyl , Xanax, Codeine, Nabilone, Buprenorphine
• Trafficking – Cocaine
• Trafficking – Xanax
• Weapons Dangerous
Crystal McMullen (37) of Burlington
• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (6 Counts) – Cocaine, Fentanyl , Xanax, Codeine, Nabilone, Buprenorphine
Braeden Bonhomme (28) of Burlington
• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (2 counts) – Cocaine and Xanax
• Breach Probation
Jordan Hughes (27) of Burlington
• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (2 counts) – Cocaine and Xanax
All accused were released on a Promise to Appear.
As a result of the investigation, the following items were seized:
• 5.6 grams Cocaine
• 2.4 grams Fentanyl
• 107 Xanax bars
• 404 Nabilone pills
• 720 ml Codeine
• 8 Buprenorphine pills
• $2040 cash
The estimated value of the drugs seized is $3700.
The HRPS were particularly pleased with the vigilance and support of area residents for their assistance in this investigation; an example of residents coming together to make their community safer.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact Sgt. Scott Heyerman of the 3 District Street Crime Unit at 905-825-4747 ext. 2342.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously 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
January 14th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) has made an arrest in connection with a shooting that took place in Burlington in 2019. On August 10, 2019, at approximately 7:20 am, police responded to a shooting at a residence on Maple Avenue.
Suspects fired shots at a victim after ringing the doorbell at the residence. The victim was not hit by any of the shots and not physically injured. Suspects fled the area in a vehicle. No arrests were made at that time.
On January 13, 2021, investigators with the 30 Division Criminal Investigations Bureau executed a search warrant at a residence in Stoney Creek. One suspect was arrested and has now been charged in relation to this incident.
Evan Trites (25) of Stoney Creek has been charged with the following:
• Utter Threats
• Assault with a Weapon
• Reckless Discharge of a Firearm
Trites was held in custody pending a bail hearing in Milton.
 Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact the 3 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4747 ext 2316.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously 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 Pepper Parr
January 11th, 2021- 9:45 pm
BURLINGTON, ON
From a source that has never let us down before we were told that Oakville Mayor Rob Burton has or will be resigning as Chair of the Halton Regional Police Services Board.
In an email from Burton to the Board members they were advised that there will be a Special Meeting of the Board.
Burton said: “In response to concerns regarding Chief Tanner’s recent travel to the U.S., the Halton Police Board will be holding a special meeting on Friday January 15th to obtain legal advice.
“This meeting will be closed to the public, as permitted under the Police Services Act. The Board will deal with the matter at its next public meeting 9.am. January 28th, which will be held by Zoom.”
Chief Tanner was reported to have left Canada and entered the United States with a person who is the president of a nationally known advocacy group that has chapters in Burlington, Oakville and Milton.
Early reports were that Tanner had sought permission from Chair Burton to travel who said that at the time, the first day of the province wide lock down, that he had no objections.
Related news stories:
Chief of Police travels to the United States during lock down.
Chair of Police Services said at the time that he had no objections to the travel.
 By Pepper Parr
January 8th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
Corrected: Rob Burton is the Mayor of Oakville and not Burlington – When I type Mayor my computer adds Burlington.
Chair of the Police Services Board Rob Burton, who is also the Mayor of Oakville said today that “Chief Steve Tanner informed me in advance of his travel to tend to a property matter. I had no objection.
 Halton Regional Police Chief Steve Tanner has the full confidence of the Chair of the Police Services Board. “Things can always look differently in hindsight, can’t they, and things looked differently back before the partial lockdown began when I didn’t have an objection.
 Rob Burton – Oakville Mayor and Chair of the Police Services Board – gives the police chief some wiggle room “Since then, I would have responded differently. Chief Tanner continues to have my full confidence. The Chief leads our police service in an exemplary manner and will continue to do so.”
It would appear that the Chief advised the Chair – the Chair said ‘no problem’ bring back some of those Cuban cigars with you’. Then the lock down was imposed. Did the Chair direct the Chief to get back pronto – and is the Chief in place now or is he self isolating?
Related news story
Police Chief in the sunny south
Burlington Mayor releases a Statement
By Pepper Parr
January 8th, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
UPDATED
 Is there anyone left in the country?
What do you say when the Chief of Police is reported to be in Florida?
Halton Regional Police Chief Stephen Tanner is reported to have been or is still in Florida.
Global News broke the story an hour or so ago.
No notice of a police convention in Florida.
There is a report that the Chief is in Florida on a property related matter.
Another report has police union members outraged.
The Gazette has reached out to Oakville Mayor Rob Burton, who is the current Chair of the Police Services Board – the level that hires the police Chief. He has not returned our request for comment.
Public trust just goes down the toilet.
By Staff
January 2nd, 2021
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police had a major case on their hands New Year’s Day.
 Shooting took place at the Appleby GO station parking lot. Report of a shooting in the parking lot of the Appleby GO station some time before 1 p.m. on January 1, had the Halton Regional Police Service tending to an individual who appeared to have been shot in a vehicle in the Appleby GO station parking lot in Burlington.
Police officers had been directed to a woman in a vehicle suffering from head trauma that appeared to be the result of a gunshot. A male suspect was arrested at the scene. The female was transported to hospital, where she is receiving care for serious injuries. A weapon was recovered at the scene.
The male and female are known to each other. No additional suspects are outstanding and there is no ongoing threat to public safety.
For the protection of the privacy of the victim, the suspect will not be named at this time, and no additional details will be provided to media.
Police are appealing for any witnesses who may have observed any suspicious activity at the Appleby GO station between the hours of 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Friday, January 1, 2021, or anyone who may have information about this incident, to contact police at 905-825-4777 ext. 8799.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously 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 Pepper Parr
December 23rd, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The pandemic took our inquiring minds off some of the other important news items.
In the Courts we were surprised to learn that the R. V. Sean Baird case had advanced a bit.
On September 8, 2020, the charges of fraud over and utter forged document against the accused were withdrawn.
Recall that Baird was originally charged with:
Uttering a Forged Document – Contrary to section 368(1) of the Criminal Code of Canada
Fraud over $5000 – Contrary to section 380(1) of the Criminal Code of Canada
Corrupt Practice (four counts) – Contrary to the Municipal Elections Act.
 Marianne Meed Ward. It would appear that Baird is still facing the four counts of Corrupt Practice.
A conviction under the Municipal Elections Act is pretty small potatoes.
The original complaint to the police is believed to have come from then newly elected Mayor Marianne Meed Ward.
Related news stories:
Baird registers as a Third Party advertiser in the municipal election
Police issue arrest warrant for Sean Baird
Impact of Baird arrest not fully known yet
By Staff
December 16th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The city has recovered $322,641.67 of a $503,026.66 fraudulent vendor payment made in May 2019.
The recovery of monies comes as a result of a Superior Court of Justice action commenced by the City, and a claim made by the City to its insurer pursuant to its Cyber Crime Policy.
In May 2019, the City discovered it was a victim of fraud, due to a single transaction made to a falsified bank account. This was a result of a complex phishing email to City staff requesting to change banking information for an established City vendor. The transaction was in the form of an electronic transfer of funds made to the vendor in the amount of approximately $503,000 and was processed on May 16, 2019.
Upon learning of the fraudulent payment, the City took immediate steps. The unauthorized payment was reported to the City’s financial institution and the Halton Regional Police, and the City put additional internal controls in place to prevent this type of fraud from occurring in the future. Criminal investigations are also underway by the appropriate authorities.
A full review of the City’s current processes has taken place. The City’s IT system was not compromised during this incident; no personal information was stolen or shared.
To maintain the integrity of ongoing investigations, the City will not be commenting further at this time.
 Mayor Meed Ward: “… public will welcome news that we’ve been reimbursed for a substantial amount …” The Mayor said this morning: “I know the public will welcome news that we’ve been reimbursed for a substantial amount of the funds stolen via fraud. The quick action of staff and the police has contributed to the recovery of these funds. I thank them for their efforts.
“There are additional avenues we are exploring to secure the remaining balance. We’ve also significantly increased our internal controls to ensure this never happens again.”
 City Manager Tim Commisso assures the public that the financial computer system is secure. Tim Commisso, City Manager tells us that: “The City is committed to being open, accountable and transparent about the city’s finances. Thank you to staff and law enforcement who have worked diligently to help recover these funds. The City has thoroughly reviewed the underlying cause of this event and implemented enhanced internal controls to mitigate against any recurrence of this type of fraud.”
By Staff
December 14th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
We don’t usually publish the Impaired Driving Offences Within list the Halton Region release once every week.
 Police questioning drivers during a RIDE program. One f the most effective police programs. We found that the police do not collect or release the names of the people who were acquitted or situations where the charges were dropped. We have had far too many people complain that we do not tell the whole story – and in a few cases found that the person charged suffered when the justice system wasn’t totally transparent.
Today we are publishing the list and asking some questions:
Are the bars not closed?
A number of those charges were laid at 9:30 am – who manages to get drunk at 9:30 and and then get behind the wheel of a car?
For those people who were charged and were acquitted – be in touch with us – we will publish that news as well.
On December 11, 2020, just before 2:00 pm, Halton Police officers responded to a citizen-initiated complaint in the area of Lakeshore Road and Locust Street in Burlington. As a result of an investigation, William Stanley (62) of Hamilton was charged with operation while impaired and blood alcohol concentration 80mgs or more, within two hours.
On December 11, 2020, just after 3:30 pm, Halton Police officers responded to a citizen-initiated complaint in the area of Third Line and Bridge Drive in Oakville. As a result of an investigation, Lynn O’Grady (57) of Burlington was charged with operation while impaired and blood alcohol concentration 80mgs or more, within two hours.
On December 12, 2020, just after 9:30 pm, Halton Police officers were conducting a R.I.D.E. initiative in the area of Walkers Line and Harvester Road in Burlington. As a result of this initiative, Aaron Baiano (35) of Welland was charged with blood alcohol concentration 80mgs or more, within two hours.
On December 13, 2020, just after 7:30 am, Halton Police officers responded to a citizen-initiated complaint in the area of Winston Churchill Boulevard and 22 Side Road in Halton Hills. As a result of an investigation, Ravjot Singh (26) of Bolton was charged with operation while impaired and blood alcohol concentration 80mgs or more, within two hours.
On December 13, 2020, just after 9:30 am, Halton Police officers responded to a citizen-initiated complaint in the area of Pinedale Avenue and Appleby Line in Burlington. As a result of an investigation, Derek Redwood (54) of Burlington was charged with operation while impaired.
On December 13, 2020, just after 10:00 pm, Halton Police officers were conducting a R.I.D.E. initiative in the area of Bronte Street North and Steeles Avenue in Milton. As a result of this initiative, Patricia Silverthorn (59) of Puslinch was charged with operation while impaired and blood alcohol concentration 80mgs or more, within two hours.
On December 13, 2020, just after 11:30 pm, Halton Police officers responded to a collision in the area of Sixth Line and Lower Base Line in Milton. As a result of an investigation, Karina Alba Espinoza (29) of Etobicoke was charged with operation while impaired and blood alcohol concentration 80mgs or more, within two hours.
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.
The Service’s Twitter and Facebook accounts should not be used for this purpose as they are not monitored 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Please be reminded that all persons charged are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
By Staff
December 8th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police have arrested and laid charges against one male and one female in relation to a series of purse thefts in the City of Burlington and Town of Oakville.
Between August and October of 2020, these thieves targeted older adult females shopping in grocery stores and retail spaces. These thieves waited for the victims to lose sight of their purses then proceeded to steal them before fleeing the scene.
In two of the incidents, thieves attempted to use the stolen credit cards for cash withdrawals at local banks. The estimated loss is projected to be over $10,000 including purses, cash, cell phones, key fobs and personal items.
Investigation by the Burlington Criminal Investigations Bureau led to the charges against the following individuals;
Zaneta STOJKOVA (39 year old female from Brampton)
- Theft Under $5,000 (7 counts)
- Fraud Under $5,000 (2 counts)
- Use of Disguise with Intent
- Breach of Probation
Rene STOJKA (39 year old male from Brampton)
- Theft Under $5,000 (4 counts)
- Fraud Under $5,000
- Fail to Comply with Release Order
 Evidence recovered by Regional Police. On December 4th 2020, Investigators from Burlington and Oakville executed a search warrant at a residence in the City of Brampton. As a result; the following items were seized
- 12 Purses
- Various Items of Clothing used to Disguise
- Various perfumes
- 2 Cellular Telephones
- $700.00 in Canadian, American and European Currency
Both STOJKOVA and STOJKA were held for a bail hearing.
The public is reminded to reduce their risk when shopping and only bring your driver’s licence, health card and a few financial cards. Protect your personal identification number at all times and use TAP whenever possible. Don’t let your belongings out of sight and become distracted while shopping.
Any fraudulent activity on your financial cards should be reported immediately to your bank and to police.
 Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Constable Derek Gray of the Burlington Criminal Investigations Bureau – Older Adult Abuse Investigator at 905-825-4747 ext. 2344.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously 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, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
It was slick – and it worked for a period of time.
The high end automotive dealers come away from this looking dreadfully stupid.
Solid police work has brought the most recent wave of car thefts – but there will be others. And of course drugs were part of the picture.
It began back in September when police services in the GTA began investigating an increase in test drive thefts occurring at local dealerships.
The suspects in these thefts used fraudulent identities and in many cases took advantage of current COVID-19 precautions to secure unescorted test drives and steal vehicles. In some cases, when the test drive was escorted by a sales representative, a staged collision was orchestrated in order to complete the theft. During this time primarily Mercedes products were targeted.
Members of the Halton Regional Police (HRPS) Oakville Criminal Investigations Bureau in collaboration with the Peel Regional Police and Hamilton Police Service began to investigate these incidents. The investigation was further supported by the Ontario Motor Vehicle Industry Council (OMVIC).
 Stealing high end cars was a side line to the drug dealing. On November 28, 2020, members of Peel Regional Police arrested two suspects in possession of a recently stolen vehicle. Subsequent search warrants were executed by members of the HRPS Oakville Criminal Investigation Bureau at two Brampton residences and on one vehicle.
Investigators seized a second vehicle (stolen from an Oakville dealership), approximately 450 grams of fentanyl, 45 grams of crack cocaine, a quantity of suspected Xanax tablets and approximately $10,000.
Azad Sandhu (18) of Brampton has been charged with:
• Theft of motor vehicle (3 counts)
• Possession of a counterfeit mark (false identity documents)
Steven Singh (20) of Mississauga has been charged with:
• Theft of motor vehicle (8 counts)
• Utter forged documents (8 counts)
• Possession of counterfeit mark (false identity documents)
• Possession for the purpose of trafficking (3 counts- Fentanyl, Xanax, Cocaine)
Both Sandhu and Singh were held in custody pending a bail hearing.
The theft of motor vehicle and related charges are in connection with incidents that occurred in Halton, Peel, Hamilton, and South Simcoe.
Prior to these arrests, HRPS investigators also executed a warrant at a residence in Toronto. This took place in October, 2020.
Multiple items were seized at that time including:
• A Mercedes vehicle stolen from Hamilton
• Stolen Ontario dealer plates
• Fraudulent Ontario and Quebec Driver’s Licences
• Approximately $3000
As a result of that earlier investigation, Yassine Jenkal (23) of Toronto was arrested and charged with the following:
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime (over $5000)
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime (under $5000) (2 Counts)
• Tampering with Vehicle Identification Number
• Possession of a Counterfeit Mark (4 counts)
Anyone with information in regards to these investigations is asked to contact Detective Omar Nadim of the 2 District Criminal Investigations Bureau 905-825-4747 ext. 2306.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously 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, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
They never really stop trying to fool you into giving them critical information on how you bank on line. There are thousands of people who send out email scams trying to get at your money.
Using the internet is a little like crossing a busy street – even though the light is green – you still want to look both ways.
 We don’t bank at the Royal Bank of Canada. They are a very good, quality banking operation.
They, or rather someone wanting us to think that it was the Royal Bank reaching out to us to do something. Had we been a Royal Bank customer we might have responded.
Here is what was sent to us:
Dear (RBC Royal Bank) Client,
We are making important changes to your Royal Bank Account and Services.
We might request RBC Business & Personal Clients, to go through a verification process to maintain the integrity of our systems. Please review the Electronic Agreement attached to this email for more details.
We value your business and hope you have a great day!
For more information go to RBC Royal Bank
Best wishes,
Edward Loews
Head of RBC Online Services
Royal Bank of Canada
There was a Pdf attached to the email. Opening that Pdf would have given them access to almost everything on our computer.
Read the email that you get carefully and if in doubt – don’t.
Like crossing the street on a green light – look left and right, the consequences if you don’t could be very painful.
By Staff
November 28th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Some serious damage done to the reputation of a Driving Instructor
On Thursday November 26, 2020, the Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) report the arrest of a driving instructor who was operating in the city of Burlington.
56 year-old Muhammad Zafar of Hamilton has been charged with Sexual Assault and Sexual Exploitation. Zafar was held in custody pending a bail hearing.
Zafar operates as a driving instructor in the city of Burlington and the victim in this occurrence was a student of his. Police believe that there may be additional victims and that Zafar may have been operating as a private driving instructor in or around the Burlington and Hamilton area.
 Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Constable Megan Wong of the HRPS Child and Sexual Assault Unit at 905 825 4747 ext. 8979.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously 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 23rd, 2020
BURLINGTON,, ON
The Halton Regional Police Service has made a number of arrests in relation to a stolen property investigation in Burlington.
Since August of 2020, various LCBO and Metro grocery stores throughout the City of Burlington and the Town of Oakville have been targeted by thieves.
The Burlington Criminal Investigations Bureau began investigating the individuals responsible for stealing alcohol from these locations. Investigation revealed that the stolen alcohol was then sold for profit.
Investigation by the Burlington Risk Mitigation Team and Street Crime Unit has led to charges against the following individuals;
Victor KARANIKOLOV (42 years old from Mississauga)
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime – Trafficking Over $5000
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime – Trafficking Under $5000
- Trafficking Contraband Tobacco
Cory MOWERS (50 years old from Mississauga)
- Trafficking Property Obtained by Crime
- Theft Under $5000 (3 counts)
- Fail to Comply Release Order
Suzanne GRIMES (42 years old from Mississauga)
- Trafficking Property Obtained by Crime
- Theft Under $5000 (2 counts)
- Fail to Comply Release Order
On November 20th 2020, Halton Police executed a search warrant at a residence in the City of Mississauga. As a result; the following items were seized:
- Approximately $50,000 in stolen property (electronics, alcohol, personal care products, tools, clothing)
- Anti-Theft Alarm Tags
- 43 cartons of contraband cigarettes
- 2 sets of magnetic keys used to remove alarm tags
- 2 cellular telephones
- 1 laptop
- $2570.00 cash
Mowers was held pending a court appearance in Milton.
Karanikolov and Grimes have been released from custody on an undertaking.
Anyone with information in regards to this investigation is asked to contact Acting Detective Kelly Blore of the 3 District Risk Mitigation Team at 905-825-4747 ext. 2306.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously 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 innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
began investigating the individuals responsible for stealing alcohol from these locations.
Investigation revealed that the stolen alcohol was then sold for profit.
Investigation by the Burlington Risk Mitigation Team and Street Crime Unit has led to charges against the following individuals;
Victor KARANIKOLOV (42 years old from Mississauga)
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime – Trafficking Over $5000
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime – Trafficking Under $5000
• Trafficking Contraband Tobacco
Cory MOWERS (50 years old from Mississauga)
• Trafficking Property Obtained by Crime
• Theft Under $5000 (3 counts)
• Fail to Comply Release Order
Suzanne GRIMES (42 years old from Mississauga)
• Trafficking Property Obtained by Crime
• Theft Under $5000 (2 counts)
• Fail to Comply Release Order
On November 20th 2020, Halton Police executed a search warrant at a residence in the City of Mississauga. As a result; the following items were seized:
• Approximately $50,000 in stolen property (electronics, alcohol, personal care products, tools, clothing)
• Anti-Theft Alarm Tags
• 43 cartons of contraband cigarettes
• 2 sets of magnetic keys used to remove alarm tags
• 2 cellular telephones
• 1 laptop
• $2570.00 cash
Mowers was held pending a court appearance in Milton.
Karanikolov and Grimes have been released from custody on an undertaking.
Anyone with information in regards to this investigation is asked to contact Acting Detective Kelly Blore of the 3 District Risk Mitigation Team at 905-825-4747 ext. 2306.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously 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 innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
By Staff
November 19th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Was it raw greed or just plain dumb responses? Something in the order of $1.3 million was involved.
The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) Regional Fraud Unit has completed a three year investigation into a Ponzi scheme operating in the region that defrauded victims out of approximately 1.3 million dollars.
Victims of this fraud transferred money believing that they were investing in a legitimate stock market investment program.
Victims initially received small returns from funds obtained by new investors. This type of fraud is commonly referred to as a ‘Ponzi Scheme’. Money invested by victims was then used for the personal and financial gain of the accused.
Police have arrested and charged Francesco Perre (AKA Frank Perre), 56 years of age of Burlington.
Perre has been charged with six counts of fraud over $5000 and misappropriation of funds. He is scheduled to appear in court in Milton on December 23, 2020.
Police believe there may be additional victims of this fraud and would encourage them to contact Detective Constable Garry Hans of the Regional Fraud Unit at 905 825 4747 ext. 8742.
The HRPS encourages members of the public to conduct due diligence prior to making investments and to be wary of investments that sound too good to be true.
By Staff
November 12th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) would like to warn citizens of a scam that has been occurring across the Region of Halton. The scam typically involves two suspects – one acting as taxi driver and the other acting as a customer.
 The suspects will engage in a loud, verbal argument, where the taxi driver refuses to accept cash from the customer for the fare (often citing COVID-19 as the reason).
The customer will then prey on unsuspecting individuals nearby, asking them to use their debit card to pay the fare in exchange for cash (which is given to the victim at the time).
The intent is to draw the victim to the taxi, where the driver presents a point of sale machine to the victim. The debit card is swiped/inserted into the machine and the PIN number covertly obtained by the suspect. The victim is then distracted by the original customer (suspect) at which point in time the driver switches the debit card, retaining the victims and giving them a different one back.
The debit card is then immediately used by the suspects to withdraw money or make purchases.
This scam has been occurring across the province and eight such incidents have been reported in the Region of Halton since late October, 2020 (five incidents in Oakville and three in Burlington).
The HRPS would like to remind the public of the following tips:
• Taxi’s DO and WILL accept cash
• Never give your debit/credit card to someone else
• When making a purchase, always remember to cover your PIN when entering it
• Be mindful of the point of sale machine when making a purchase and if you suspect it has been tampered with, choose another payment method
• If you believe you are the victim of a scam, contact police immediately
Anyone with information in regards to these incidents is asked to contact Detective Constable Mike Tidball of the Halton Regional Police Service – Fraud Unit at 905-825-747 ext. 8743.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously 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
October 30th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) has announced the launch of their first ever Youth Advisory Council.
Recognizing that youth interactions and engagement present a unique and exciting opportunity for law enforcement, our police service has developed this council for the purpose of increasing connectivity and to better understand the needs of the youth living in the Region of Halton. In recent years, youth have assumed an increased role within the community and have used their voices to effect change. Through the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion office, we have identified the need to enhance our service delivery model as it relates to youth and their involvement in driving change within the police service and our community.
The goal of the Youth Advisory Council is to:
• Advise our Police Service on how our policies, programs and outreach initiatives are impacting youth living in the Region of Halton.
• Understand how our current programs and initiatives can be enhanced to better support and serve our youth and the community.
• Assist in the development of future programs and initiatives to meet the changing needs of our community.
The concept for the Youth Advisory Council was developed in consultation with our police service, local youth and community stakeholders who felt that there was a critical gap in how we engage youth living in the Region of Halton. The HRPS has recognized that all citizens, including youth, have a role to play in ensuring we live in the safest and most inclusive Region in Canada.
“We recognize that youth are our future and today more than ever, their voices must be heard and have an impact on how we as a Police Service develop programs and initiatives to enhance community safety and well-being. This Youth Advisory Council will be a great addition to our Equity, Diversity and Inclusion strategy by ensuring we have a point of contact between our Police Service and the diverse youth living in the Region of Halton” says Deputy Chief Roger Wilkie.
The HRPS is looking for youth aged 14-18 who want to inspire change and employ their diverse perspectives and experiences to ensure that our police service is more inclusive and meets the needs of youth living in the Region of Halton. Applications are open as of Friday, October 30, 2020.
The actual selection of the Youth Committee has some interesting criteria. The HRPS deserve credit for being truly inclusive. It was more than this reporter expected. Check it out.
More information about this initiative and the application process can be found here:
With close to a dozen retail cannabis operations in the city – how does the private sector make a living? Mr.Beraldo, a 59 year old Burlington resident has been put out of business for awhile.
The Halton Regional Police Service has concluded a two week long drug trafficking investigation in the City of Burlington.
Investigation by the Burlington Street Crime Unit has led to charges against the following individual:
 That’s a lot of evidence. Sergio BERALDO (59 years old from Burlington)
- Possession for the Purpose of Selling – Cannabis (2 counts)
- Possession for the Purpose of Selling – Cannabis Derivatives (2 counts)
- Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking – Oxycodone (2 counts)
- Possession of a Controlled Substance – Psilocybin
- Possession of a Controlled Substance – Morphine
- Possession of a Controlled Substance – Cocaine
On October 28th 2020, Investigators from the Street Crime Unit, District Response Unit and Risk Mitigation Team executed search warrants at a residence, an outbuilding and on two vehicles in the City of Burlington. As a result; the following items were seized:
- 1.3 kilograms of cannabis
- 7 x 420mg THC gummies
- 2 THC vape pens
- 21 oxycodone pills (some crushed into capsules)
- 2.4 grams cocaine
- 1 morphine pill
- 3.2 grams psilocybin
- 1 cellular telephone
- 2 digital scales
- $1575.00 cash
$13,670 worth of drugs was seized as a result of the search warrants. (Photo attached).
Beraldo was released on an undertaking.
Anyone with information in regards to this investigation is asked to contact Detective Scott Heyerman of the 3 District Street Crime Unit at 905-825-4747 ext. 2342.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously 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.
People charged with a criminal offence are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
By Staff
October 28th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Human trafficking is a heinous crime that robs victims of the fundamental right to live free of violence and fear.
There are times when we are unable to publish a fulsome media release regarding a human trafficking investigation because doing so would pose a personal risk to the victim. In these instances, the Halton Regional Police Service will publish a de-identified media release that outlines the arrest(s) made as a result of the investigation. No names. No residence details. We will, however, disclose the charges laid.
Each media release will also include key messaging that:
i) reinforces that trafficking is a violation of human rights and a criminal offence in Canada;
ii) encourages victims, and those who have reason to believe someone they know might be a victim of trafficking, to contact the Halton Regional Police Service; and
iii) provides a comprehensive list of community resources for those affected.
Our goals are two-fold: i) create an opportunity to connect those who are at-risk, or who may already be victims of human trafficking, with the resources and support they need and deserve; and ii) heighten the awareness of the general public that trafficking is not a ‘far away’ problem in the developing world, but rather, one that is happening right here in our region.
Male Arrested for Human Trafficking Offences
Earlier this month, the Halton Regional Police Service – Human Trafficking Unit became aware of a young (adult) female who had been the victim of human trafficking dating back to 2017. The trafficking took place across the Greater Toronto Area. As a result of the ensuing investigation, police were able to locate and arrest a male in his thirties. The male was charged with the following offences:
• Material Benefit from Sexual Services
• Procuring to Provide Sexual Services
• Procuring by Exercise Control
• Advertising Sexual Services
The accused was held in custody pending a bail hearing.
Upon arrest of the accused, the victim was referred by the Halton Regional Police Service to our Victim Services Unit, and to support agencies in the community.
For the protection of the victim, no additional details (including the name of the accused) will be provided to the media.
The Halton Regional Police Service firmly believes that every person has the right to feel safe in our community.
Victims of violence and/or sexual assault and witnesses are encouraged to contact the Halton Regional Police Service. The following is a list of valuable support services and resources in our region for victims of violence and/or sexual assault:
• Halton Regional Police Service Victim Services Unit 905-825-4777 ext. 5239 or by email at VictimServices@haltonpolice.ca
• Nina’s Place Sexual Assault and Domestic Assault Care Centre 905-336-4116 or 905-681-4880
• Sexual Assault and Violence Intervention Services (SAVIS) 905-875-1555 (24-hour crisis line)
• Radius Child & Youth Services 905-825-3242 (Oakville) or 1-855-744-9001
• Kid’s Help Phone 1-800-668-6868 (24-hour crisis line)
• THRIVE Counselling 905-845-3811 or 905-637-5256
Signs / Indicators of Human Trafficking
• Not being allowed to speak for themselves;
• Not having control of their own money or cellphone;
• Suddenly having a new or second cell phone with a secret number;
• Being controlled by others and escorted at all times;
• Not being allowed to contact family or friends;
• Withdrawing from family and friends;
• Providing rehearsed answers to casual questions;
• Being secretive about their activities;
• Showing signs of abuse, such as bruising, cigarette burns, fractures, etc.
• Having a new boyfriend, girlfriend or friend who they won’t introduce to friends/family; and
• Having new items (clothing, jewelry etc.) outside their financial means.
What Should I Do if I Think Someone is a Victim of Trafficking
If there is immediate danger or if you suspect someone is being trafficked, call 9-1-1.
You may also call the Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-833-900-1010.
The Canadian Human Trafficking Hotline is a confidential, multilingual service, operating 24/7 to connect victims and survivors with social services, law enforcement, and emergency services, as well as receive tips from the public. The hotline uses a victim-centered approach when connecting human trafficking victims and survivors with local emergency, transition, and/or long-term supports and services across the country, as well as connecting callers to law enforcement where appropriate.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously 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.
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