 By Staff
October 27th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) is warning the public of a new extortion letter scam that is taking place in Halton Region (similar letters have also been distributed throughout the Greater Toronto Area).
The HRPS has received multiple complaints about the same letter. This letter is typed on a computer and tells victims that a person in their life has hired the writer to harm them in some way.
The writer offers to deny this request to harm them in exchange for a payment of Bitcoin from the victim. The suspect then promises to reveal the identity of the person who wants to harm them.
These extortion letters can be convincing, are often tailored to an occupant of the residence, and arrive by Canada Post.
This is a scam.
Police are urging residents not to follow the instructions in the letter and not to send a payment of Bitcoin. If you receive this letter and would like to report it to police, please contact our non-emergency line at 905-825-4747.
If you have fallen victim to this scam and made a payment in Bitcoin, please contact police.
The HRPS is investigating the source of these letters.
 By Staff
October 18th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
When an intimate relationship breaks down – things get very ugly and people are hurt. The Regional Police have to deal with these situations all too often.
 In early September, the Halton Regional Police Service received a 9-1-1 call late at night from a young child stating that they could hear a physical altercation and their mother screaming for help.
Officers were dispatched to the residence, arriving in minutes. Officers made contact with the female party who exited the residence crying, with visible signs of assault on her face and body. The female party stated that the male party involved in this incident had left the residence on foot.
Officers cleared the residence to confirm that the male party had not re-entered and to ensure the safety of the three children in the residence. Uniform officers remained on scene and spoke with the female party.
Officers learned that the male party had arrived intoxicated at the female’s residence and assaulted her following a verbal altercation. The male had punched, choked, pushed and kicked her. During the assault, the female party yelled out to her sleeping children to call 9-1-1.
Thankfully, one of her children heard her and called for help. This led the male party to flee the residence on foot. The female party was able to lock the front door, securing the safety of her children and herself.
The male was arrested soon after and subsequently transported to Central Lock Up. Thereafter, the Halton Regional Police Service Intimate Partner Violence Unit took carriage of the investigation. The accused was charged with Assault Causing Bodily Harm and Mischief Under $5,000.
 The female party received medical attention and was referred to the Halton Regional Police Service Victim Services Unit.
The Intimate Partner Violence Victim Coordinator worked with the victim to establish measures to increase her safety through a safety plan.
The Victim Services Unit also connects victims to appropriate support services in the community, assists with victim care, and, through the Victim Quick Response Program (VQRP+), can provide immediate short-term financial support toward essential expenses for victims of violent crime.
Unfortunately, this situation is not unique. This incident serves as an example of why we must look out for our neighbours, relatives, friends, and co-workers, especially if you suspect they may not be safe at home.
That is why the Halton Regional Police Service, in partnership with Halton Women’s Place and the Halton Regional Police Services Board, are unveiling a memorial site to commemorate victims of Intimate Partner Violence in Halton on Monday, November 2, 2020. Through this memorial, the aim is to:
• Honour ALL victims who have been killed in acts of Intimate Partner Violence, and
• Increase community awareness in relation to Intimate Partner Violence and, more specifically, gender-based violence.
Together, we must stand in solidarity to help end Intimate Partner Violence, because a life without violence is the only life to live.
The HRPS is urging victims or friends/family of victims to contact the Halton Regional Police Service, Halton Women’s Place or other community resources if intimate partner violence is happening.
Shelters across Halton are still open at this time and Halton Women’s Place continues to offer services. Shelters have taken precautions related to COVID-19 to ensure that no one is forced to choose between their safety and their health. Help is available.
 Every person has the right to feel safe in our community.
You are not alone. Victims of intimate partner violence 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 Halton Region for victims of intimate partner violence and/or sexual violence:
• Halton Regional Police Service Victim Services Unit 905-825-4777
• Halton Women’s Place 905-878-8555 (north) or 905-332-7892 (24-hour crisis line)
• Halton Children’s Aid Society 905-333-4441 or 1-866-607-5437
• 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)
By Staff
October 15th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
Residents in southern Burlington – south of the QEW, are reported to be getting a little sloppy about locking their cars at night.
The younger criminal set are finding they can steal small change and at times electronic equipment from unlocked cars.
 Halton Police are reminding residents to Lock it or Lose it: there has been a recent increase in overnight thefts in the city, especially south of the QEW.
Over the past few weeks, a significant rise in theft incidents from vehicles has been reported to police. The reported incidents have occurred during the overnight hours and involve thieves entering unlocked vehicles to steal loose change and other valuables from inside.
The latest rash of incidents has occurred across the City, but thieves have been primarily targeting Burlington’s south end, south of the Q.E.W.
As police continue to investigate these crimes, we would like to remind and are urging Burlington residents to remain vigilant by keeping watch for suspicious vehicles and or persons in their neighbourhoods and to report it immediately to police.
Police are reminding the public of the following prevention tips:
• Ensure your unattended vehicle(s) are kept locked/secure
• Never leave personal identification or valuables in your vehicle
• Park in well-lit and attended areas whenever possible
• Never leave spare keys in your vehicle
• If you have to leave valuables in your vehicle, lock them in your trunk. Don’t tempt thieves by leaving packages or purses in plain view or on the seat.
• Remove garage door openers, G.P.S. navigation, cell phone devices and power cords from your vehicle if possible or at the least, removed from view
• Consider installing C.C.T.V. / Surveillance cameras which can capture the crime and aid in suspect identification
• Ensure residences and garages are locked when absent from the home or turning in for the night
• REPORT SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY TO POLICE IMMEDIATELY
Anyone with information related to these incidents 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.
For additional information about community concerns in Burlington, follow us on Twitter @HRPSBurl. Additionally, for the latest crime data, crime prevention tips, news releases and general information – visit the Service’s website www.haltonpolice.ca.
 By Staff
October 9th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton District Police Service reports on the 2020 two day commercial vehicle traffic blitz that took place earlier in the week.
 Highway 401 runs through the Region – all that heavy commercial traffic needs a close watch. The Regional Police have a special unit focused on this work The inspections were done at the Mohawk Racetrack in Milton.
The purpose of the blitz is to conduct proactive enforcement to ensure compliance with legislation pertaining to mechanical fitness, weights, load security, safety / inspection, compliance and licencing.
With the help of neighbouring police services and agencies, officers were able to inspect 340 commercial motor vehicles with the following results:
• Total commercial motor vehicles inspected: 340
• Total commercial motor vehicles taken out of service: 96 (28 per cent failure rate)
• Total charges laid: 250
• Sets of licence plates seized by police: 7
2019 Results (for comparison):
• Total commercial motor vehicles inspected: 305
• Total commercial motor vehicles taken out of service: 99 (33 per cent failure rate)
• Total charges laid: 239
• Sets of licence plates seized by police: 11
Alcohol screening at the blitz also led to licence suspensions for three drivers. One of the alcohol related licence suspensions was identified as a 14-year suspended driver. This resulted in a 7-day vehicle impound. A total of 19 charges were laid against the driver and his employer, including overweight vehicle, no insurance and multiple mechanical issues.
“Issues identified at the blitz varied across all categories and are reflective of those commercial motor vehicle type offences seen throughout the year,” said Traffic Services Unit Sergeant, Ryan Snow.
 Tractor trailers get very close inspections. “The mechanical issues identified suggest a lack of maintenance and due diligence in daily inspections. Weights also continue to be a safety concern as police continuously note that dump truck drivers claim little control pertaining to overloading of their vehicles. These weight-specific concerns remain an area of ongoing education and enforcement given the obvious handling and braking issues that can occur, along with the additional damage that these weights can render to roadways.
“It should also be highlighted that an out of service rate of 28% only means 28% of trucks directed into the blitz failed to meet required standards, and is not necessarily a reflection of all trucks on area roadways.”
By Staff
October 5th, 2020
BURLINGTON,. ON
The Halton Regional Police Service – 3 District Criminal Investigations Bureau – has concluded a month-long investigation involving a series of break and enters into several businesses within the City Burlington.
Throughout the month of September 2020, several businesses were broken into involving at least two suspects targeting A.T.M.s where an undisclosed sum of money was stolen.
As a result of the investigation, one suspect was identified by investigators. On October 3rd, 2020, a Criminal Code Search Warrant was executed at a residence in the City of Burlington and the accused was arrested.
The investigation led to charges against the following individual;
John BAILEY (48 years old from Burlington)
• Break and Enter – Commit; contrary to the Criminal Code of Canada – (7 counts)
• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (Fentanyl); contrary to the Controlled Drugs and Substance Act
• Fail to Comply with Probation Order; contrary to the Criminal Code of Canada
The accused was later released on a Form 10 Undertaking.
Investigators are still seeking to identify the second involved party. Anyone with information in regards to this investigation is asked to contact Detective Melissa Parsons of the 3 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4747 ext. 2307
 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
September 28th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) Drug and Human Trafficking Unit has recently concluded a year-long investigation titled, ‘Project Mover’.
Beginning in Halton in late 2019, Project Mover spanned the Greater Toronto Area, and resulted in the largest fentanyl seizure in HRPS history, with a value of more than $4 million.
Nine individuals are facing a total of 30 charges in relation to this investigation.
 During the course of Project Mover, officers executed search warrants at six residences and made use of more than 100 judicial authorizations.
Project Mover resulted in the seizure of the following:
• 10.25 kilograms of fentanyl
• 1 kilogram of cocaine
• 6 kilograms of a suspected controlled substance (identification of substance pending analysis)
• 1.25 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine
• $307,065 currency (CDN $)
• Semi-automatic 12 gauge shotgun
• .40 calibre handgun with an extended clip
• Stolen 2019 Dodge Durango
• 2016 Acura RDX
The following individuals have been arrested and charged:
Jorge Zamora (28) of British Columbia
• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking – Fentanyl
Ian Singh (31) of Markham
• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking – Fentanyl (x2)
• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking – Cocaine
• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking – Heroine
• Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
• Knowledge of Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
• Breach of Firearm Regulation
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000
Karen Tran (28) of Toronto
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000
Joseph Piansay (26) of Brampton
• Trafficking a Controlled Substance – Methamphetamine
• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking – Methamphetamine
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000
Domenic Mamone (47) of Hamilton
• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking – Methamphetamine
Jordan Treleaven (28) of Oakville
• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking – Cocaine
• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking – Fentanyl
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000 (x2)
Douglas Johnson (46) of Oakville
• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking – Cocaine
• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking – Fentanyl
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000 (x2)
Jani Suutarinen (44) of Alberta
• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking – Cocaine
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000
Craig Grant (21) of Mississauga
• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking – Cocaine
• Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
• Knowledge of Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
• Possession of a Prohibited Device
• Breach of Firearm Regulation
• Unauthorized Possession of a Weapon
The HRPS would like to thank the Public Prosecution Service of Canada, Criminal Intelligence Service Ontario (CISO) and the RCMP for their assistance during the investigation.
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
September 25th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
For a small city with eight cannabis retail locations and five applications for a license to operate in Burlington the latest drug bust on the part of the Halton Regional Police is disturbing.
The evidence the police were able to show after a week long investigation in the City of Burlington by the 3 District – Street Crime Unit has led to charges against the following individual:
Rakeem AMOAH (18 years old from Burlington)
• Unauthorized Possession of Prohibited Device
• Possession of a Prohibited Device
• Possession for the Purpose of Selling (3 Counts)
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime
• Possession of a Controlled Substance (Oxycodone)
• Sell Cannabis
On September 24th 2020, Investigators from the Street Crime Unit and Criminal Investigations Bureau executed a search warrant at a residence in the City of Burlington. As a result; the following items were seized:
• 81 grams of Cannabis
• 71 x 500mg of Edible Gummies
• 1 Oxycodone Tablet
• 2 High Capacity Extended Handgun Magazines
• Various Ammunition
• 3 Digital Scales
• 2 Cellular Telephones
• $14,410 Canadian Currency
• $10,147 American Currency
$2,235 worth of Cannabis and Cannabis Edibles were seized as a result of the search warrant. (Photo attached).
AMOAH was held for a Bail Hearing on September 25th, 2020.
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.
By Staff
September 21st, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON’
Halton Police are advising the public that there is an increase in bicycle thefts in the City of Burlington over the past few months.
Theft of bicycles continues to be a concern in Burlington and Halton Police would like to remind the public to ensure their bicycles are locked up when they are left unattended.
Police also encourage citizens to report any suspicious persons.
Locations that have been targeted by bike thieves:
• Burlington GO Stations
• Shopping Centers and Plazas
Police are reminding the public of the following prevention tips:
 A video of what police believe was of a person suspected of stealing bicycles in Burlington at the YMCA • Ensure your unattended bicycle is locked up to an immovable object.
• If possible, select a bike rack with at least two points of contact in order to lock both the frame and wheels..
• Consider removing a tire or seat to discourage would-be-thieves.
• U-locks provide a greater deterrence to theft when compared to cable locks. Consider using (2) locks.
• Lock the bicycle in a well-lit and attended areas whenever possible.
• Ensure your garage door is closed when a bicycle is left inside.
• Document information of the bicycle (have serial number and photo of the bike) to provide to police if required.
• REPORT SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY TO POLICE IMMEDIATELY.
Halton Police have made a number of arrests after bicycles have been stolen in Burlington over the past few months and will continue to target these crimes of opportunity. Community safety is a shared responsibility. If you see suspicious activity in your neighbourhood, please report it immediately.
Anyone with information in regard to this investigation is asked to contact Detective Constable Matt Spina of the 3 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4747 ext. 2338.
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
September 16th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The auto theft scam is back. They go after high end used vehicles.
This one is really dumb – the automotive sector have only themselves to blame for this kind of thing happening.
The Gazette reported on this a number of weeks ago. Do the people in the automotive sector not talk to each other?
The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) is asking for the public’s help in identifying a suspect in a recent string of vehicle thefts from dealerships in Oakville and Georgetown.
 The police have pictures of a suspect this time.  Police are investigating four similar style thefts with the same suspect involved. The first theft took place on September 8, 2020, and the most recent took place today (September 16) in Oakville (three of the thefts have taken place in Oakville and one in Georgetown).
Typically, the suspect will visit a dealership and state that they would like to purchase a vehicle and request a test drive. Due to COVID-19 policies, on three occasions the suspect has been allowed to test drive the vehicle alone, and leaves the dealership without returning.
On one occasion when the suspect was accompanied on the test drive by an employee, a secondary vehicle became involved and police believe a collision was intentionally initiated. Once the employee exited the vehicle to inspect the damage, both vehicles fled the scene.
Investigation has shown the phone number and identification provided to dealerships to be fraudulent.
All the dealerships targeted sell used Mercedes vehicles.
Surveillance photos of a suspect in these thefts is attached to this release.
He is described as male, brown skin, approximately 5’10”, 160 lbs with a thin build, short black hair. He has been seen wearing a white face mask.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Omar Nadim of the 2 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4747 ext. 2278.
 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.
What You Can Do
We are actively encouraging dealerships to remain vigilant and to report suspicious activity in/around their facilities to police. If you witness a crime in progress, or if the above-referenced suspect attends your dealership, you are asked to call 911.
If an individual requests a test drive, charge a security deposit to their credit card before they leave the lot; and
If an individual provides you with a contact phone number, call it before they leave the lot to verify that it is valid;
If an individual requests a test drive, charge a security deposit to their credit card before they leave the lot.
Related news story:
Brazen indeed.
By Staff
September 14th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
It was just after 7:00 pm yesterday when a police officer spotted a car moving a little too quickly in the of Billings Court and South Service Road in Burlington.
 A traffic stop was conducted and grounds were formed for a lawful search of the vehicle. Search of the vehicle led to the discovery and seizure of approximately 300 grams of fentanyl, valued at over $100,000, as well as $15,000 in cash.
That is a very significant drug inventory.
Parteek Ghuman (19) of Stoney Creek has been charged with:
-Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking – Fentanyl
-Obstruct Peace Officer
Ghuman has been held in custody pending a bail hearing.
This is an example of excellent police work.
Anyone with information in regards to this incident is asked to contact D/Sgt Jared McLeod of the 3 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4747 ext. 2385.
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
September 11th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
NOTICE TO PUBLIC
REGARDING PROVINCIAL OFFENCES ACT MATTERS
Revised September 2, 2020
All in-person Provincial Offences Act matters (e.g., traffic tickets and offences under provincial legislation) scheduled until October 16, 2020 will be rescheduled. Do not attend court.
 If you were planning on going to court – the date will have been changed. All in-person Provincial Offences Act (POA) matters scheduled from Monday, March 16, 2020 through to and including Friday, October 16, 2020 will be adjourned and rescheduled to a later date. If you have a matter scheduled during this time, do not attend court. This applies to all POA courts in Ontario.
A notice of your new court date will be sent to you by mail to the address on file with the court. For more information, please contact your local Provincial Offences court.
Contact information for all municipal courts is available here: https://www.attorneygeneral.jus.gov.on.ca/english/courts/Court_Addresses/poa/
Updated information about court proceedings at the Ontario Court of Justice can be found on the Court’s website at https://www.ontariocourts.ca/ocj/.
On August 20, 2020 the Ontario government announced that the limitation periods order under the Reopening Ontario Act, 2020 suspending any time limitations setting out the commencement of POA proceedings will end on September 13, 2020.
Therefore, the following POA limitation periods will resume running on September 14, 2020 including:
• Time for provincial offences officers to file a certificate of offence or parking infraction;
• Time for defendants to file notices of intention to appear;
• Time at which a fine goes into default and may be subject to enforcement; and
• Time for appeals.
Please be advised that the Chief Justice has made a subsequent order pursuant to s. 85 extending certain timelines for the Ontario Court of Justice under the Provincial Offences Act until December 1, 2020.
A copy of the order is available on the Ontario Court of Justice website.
By Staff
September 11th,2020
BURLINGTON, ON
This one is a little on the complex side.
The Regional Police have signed on to a web site that will aid them in finding people who are lost and help people who are lost in getting found.
The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) announced a new partnership with What3Words. They are one of the first police services in the country to adopt this potentially lifesaving technology and is confident that this new program will help reduce response times.
The service is called – What3words – described as an easy way to communicate an exact location. This is done by dividing the world into 3 metre squares and assigning each square a unique combination of three words.
We did say it is complex.
For example, the what3words address of the HRPS Headquarters’ front entrance is Erupt.Venomous.Linear.
Using the app, callers can communicate their precise location to call takers at the HRPS. If they do not have the app, the HRPS can send callers a text message that will identify their location and unique what3word address. HRPS communicators can then direct officers to the exact location of the caller.
 It is complex – but if it works – it could be great. “This technology could be especially helpful in situations where people have become lost hiking, or have driven off the road and are trapped in a vehicle and don’t know where they are” says Staff Sergeant Stephanie Jamieson, Communications Bureau.
“We think this will also help immensely along the 325 square kilometres of Lake Ontario policed by the HRPS Marine Unit. Boaters can become stranded or lost and struggle to communicate their location to police.”
This program is far more precise than a traditional cell phone ‘ping’ often used by emergency services.
The HRPS will begin using this technology effective immediately.
The app is available for free on iOS and Android or via the online map at what3words.com. It’s also available in more than 40 languages.
The app also works offline, making it ideal for use in rural areas of Halton that may have poor or unreliable data signal.
For more information a video on how the program works can be found HERE.
By Staff
September 7th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police Service has concluded a robbery investigation which occurred at an Esso Gas Station in the City of Burlington on September 6th, 2020.
At approximately 6:10am on Sunday September 6th, 2020, a lone male entered the Esso Gas Station located on Plains Road and proceeded to jump over the counter with a knife in his hand. The lone male lunged towards the store clerk causing the victim to put his hands up in order to defend himself. As a result of this altercation, the victim’s hand was cut by the knife. The male continued to lunge towards the victim who proceeded to run into the main store area to get away from the knife welding male. The lone male then proceeded to grab approximately $550 cash from the till before fleeing the Esso on foot.
Police attended at the crime scene and were later able to arrest the suspect. The victim immediately contacted 911 and police and ambulance responded. The victim suffered a large cut to one finger and had the tip of another finger cut off. The victim was transported by ambulance to Joseph Brant Memorial Hospital where he received a number of stitches. The victim was eventually released from hospital after receiving medical treatment.
Investigation by Halton Police revealed that the lone male had attended the Esso Gas Station on September 5th, 2020 at approximately 6:00am and had attempted to break in through the back door. The male was confronted by the victim at that time and fled the scene. As a result, police identified a 16 year old male responsible for the robbery.
On Monday September 7th, 2020, investigators located and arrested the 16 year old male outside of his residence in the City of Burlington.
Police executed a search warrant at this residence and as a result of the search; Halton Police located and seized a knife, cell phone, clothing and recovered Canadian Currency.
Investigation by the Burlington Criminal Investigation Bureau has led to the following charges against a 16 year old young offender from Burlington whose identity cannot be released:
 The Young Offender Act was designed to attempt to intercede in the lives of young men and women who are in conflict with the law and treat them differently by protecting their identity. • Robbery
• Aggravated Assault
• Disguise with Intent
• Attempt Break and Enter
The Young Offender was held for bail and will appear in Milton Court on September 8th, 2020.
Anyone with information in regards to this investigation is asked to contact Detective Constable Colin MacLeod of the 3 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4747 ext. 2357.
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
September 4th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The furniture has been loaded on the moving truck and you are on the way to your new residence.
The men driving the moving truck pull into a gas station – you are following the truck.
They tell you that it is going to take an additional $2000 to complete the job – the movers had already been given a cash deposit.
The customer didn’t like the look or feel on what was taking place and called the police.
 Police unloaded the furniture and household items from a van that was suspected of being used in a moving scam. A very grateful citizen. Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) officers attended a gas station for what is now being investigated as a moving company scam.
Police officers emptied the moving truck and helped the victim get their possessions to their new home.
A criminal investigation is still ongoing into this occurrence and charges are expected.
The HRPS is investigating similar style scams that may have taken place throughout the region. If you believe you may have been a victim of a moving scam within Halton please contact Constable Sarah McCullagh at sarah.mccullagh@haltonpolice.ca or call 905-825-4747 ext. 2405.
 Do the Regional Police now have a new unit – The Ace Moving company? Great public service on the part of police detachment. Police would also like to offer the following tips to residents looking at hiring a moving company:
• Do your research (search the company online). Look for reviews from customers and/ or a website. Be wary of a company that has no online presence.
• Where is the moving company coming from? A company travelling from another province to complete the move is suspicious. Also be suspicious if the company is using a rental truck with out of province licence plates.
• Read your contract prior to signing.
By Staff
August 31st, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
A joint two day operation involving the Ministry of Transportation and Halton Regional Police Commercial Motor Vehicle Inspectors occurred on August 25 and 26, 2020, in Burlington.
The results of the 2020 two day venture is as follows:
• 111 Inspections (heavy and light commercial motor vehicles)
• 40 vehicles placed out of service for either mechanical or driver related issues
• 110 Provincial Offence Notices issued
• 1 arrest for blood alcohol concentration 80mgs or more
The results of previous commercial vehicle inspects in 2018 and 2019 are set out below.
In 2019, despite very poor weather conditions they inspected more than 300 commercial motor vehicles.
The two-day enforcement blitz, that involved officers and inspectors from the Halton Regional Police Service, along with assistance from neighbouring police services, the Ministry of Transportation and the Ministry of Finance/ Environment yielded the following results:
• Total commercial motor vehicles inspected: 308
• Total commercial motor vehicles taken out of service: 99 (33 percent failure rate)
• Total charges laid: 239
• Sets of licence plates seized by police: 11
 Close inspections – it keeps the highways safer 2018 Results:
• Total commercial motor vehicles inspected: 443
• Total commercial motor vehicles taken out of service: 143 (32 percent failure rate)
• Total charges laid: 268
• Sets of licence plates seized by police: 13
By Staff
August 20, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
On July 25, 2020, members of the Halton Regional Police Service – Marine Unit- responded to a collision on the waters of Lake Ontario, near the Burlington Pier, involving two Personal Water Craft (PWC) operators.
 Marine Unit consists of a small fleet – this is the big one. Following an investigation into the operating behavior of the PWC operators prior to the collision, the Marine Unit has charged both drivers with Careless Operation of a Vessel under the Canada Shipping Act – Small Vessel Regulations.
The Marine Unit reminds members of the community that operating such vessels in a dangerous manner may result in death and/or serious injury.
Further, all vessel operators should be aware that a 10 km/h speed limit applies within 30 meters of shore or structures attached to shore.
By Staff
August 20th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police Service has concluded a two week drug trafficking investigation in the City of Burlington. The investigation by the 3 District – Street Crime Unit has led to charges against the following individual;
Brandon STODDARD (32 years old from Burlington)
Trafficking (Fentanyl)
Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (Fentanyl)
Possession of a Controlled Substance (Codeine)
Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose
Breach of Release Order (2 Counts)
On August 19th 2020, Investigators with the assistance of the Tactical Rescue Unit and K9 executed a search warrant at a residence in the City of Burlington. As a result; the following items were seized:
 5 grams of Purple Fentanyl
100 ml of Codeine
2 Digital Scales
5 Cellular Telephones
12 inch Knife
$380.00 Canadian Currency
$11,150 worth of drugs was seized as a result of the search warrant. (Photo attached).
STODDARD was held for a Bail Hearing on August 20th, 2020.
Anyone with information in regards to this investigation is asked to contact Detective Constable Cole Richards of the 3 District Street Crime Unit at 905-825-4747 ext. 2345.
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
August 14th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
While this incident took place in Action (Worth the Drive they say) it is a fine example of how citizens can work with police.
On June 22, 2020 the Halton Regional Police Service responded to a report of a stolen skid steer from a parking lot in Acton.
 Not the easiest thing to put in the back of a pick up. An alert neighbour gave the police all the information needed to make an arrest. The skid steer (Bobcat, valued at approximately $15,000) had been parked at a lot in the area of Hillcrest Street and Eastern Avenue. An alert citizen advised police that he observed two suspicious pickup trucks in the area of the skid steer at approximately 6:20 pm. He observed a male load the skid steer onto one of the trucks prior to leaving the area without properly securing it. He provided police with detailed descriptors of the trucks and the male loading the skid steer.
Investigation determined that the skid steer was in-fact stolen and the information provided by the citizen was crucial in aiding the investigation.
On August 13, 2020 the suspect was located and arrested by Halton Regional Police officers in the city of Guelph.
Kyle Rideout (32) of Erin has been charged with:
-Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000.
Rideout was released from custody on a Form 9. The skid steer has been recovered by police. The investigation is continuing in efforts to identify other suspect(s) involved.
A form 9 is an appearance notice, simply a notification provided by a peace officer of the upcoming court appearance as well as information on when the person must attend for fingerprinting for offences that are indictable or hybrid (straight summary conviction offences do not require fingerprinting).
 Anyone with information in regards to this investigation is asked to contact Detective Constable Sheena Baker of the 1 District Criminal Investigation Bureau at 905-825-4747 ext. 2129.
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
August 12th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police Service – Drug and Human Trafficking Unit has concluded an investigation into an incident that occurred at a Burlington hotel in July, 2020.
Two females (ages 16 and 18) were identified as victims of human trafficking as a result of the investigation. The Halton Regional Police Service, with assistance from the Barrie Police Service, has since arrested two males in relation to the incident.
Charged are:
Kevaun Orlando Parkes (22) of Brampton
• Trafficking in Persons – Child
• Material Benefit – Trafficking in Persons – Child
• Material Benefit – Purchasing Offence – Child
• Knowingly Advertise for Sexual Services x2
• Trafficking in Persons – Adult
• Material Benefit – Trafficking in Persons – Adult
• Material Benefit – Purchasing Offence – Adult
• Withhold or Destroy Identity Document – Adult
• Assault
• Procuring – Child
A youth offender (male) from Brampton has been charged with:
• Trafficking in Persons – Child
• Material Benefit – Trafficking in Persons – Child
• Material Benefit – Purchasing Offence – Child
• Knowingly Advertise for Sexual Services x2
• Trafficking in Persons – Adult
• Material Benefit – Trafficking in Persons – Adult
• Material Benefit – Purchasing Offence – Adult
• Procuring – Child
Both parties were held in custody pending a bail hearing.
Police believe there may be further victims. Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Dan Ciardullo of the Drug and Human Trafficking Unit at 905-825-4747 ext 4973.
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.
The Halton Regional Police Service is a member of the Halton Collaborative Against Human Trafficking along with several other stakeholders and agencies. This Collaborative is dedicated towards providing services and support to those who have experienced Human Trafficking in Halton and surrounding regions. Local organizations such as “SAVIS” (www.savisofhalton.org) are able to provide first response care and support to victims of human trafficking.
 By Staff
August 12th, 2020
BURLINGTON, ON
The wearing of face coverings/masks is known to pose a significant barrier to the Deaf community, as masks make it harder to lip read and understand sign language.
To better serve the demographics of our community, while continuing to mitigate the transmission of COVID-19, Halton Regional Police Service officers are now equipped with ClearMasks™.
 “Our ability to communicate with the members of our community is absolutely essential,” says Halton Regional Police Service Deputy Chief Roger Wilkie. “With guidance and input from the Bob Rumball Canadian Centre of Excellence for the Deaf, we have now removed a significant communications barrier.”
“By introducing ClearMasksTM within Halton Regional Police Service, anyone from the Deaf community can now have more accessible dialogue with police officers,” says Jayne Leang, Director of Business Relations at the Bob Rumball Canadian Centre of Excellence for the Deaf.
“In an emergency situation, allowing a person who is Deaf or hard-of-hearing the opportunity to see the officer’s facial expression or attempt to read their lips, helps in the exchange of potentially life-saving information.”
These Health Canada-approved masks feature a transparent window, allowing the mouth to be fully protected, while fully visible, for those who use speech reading, lip reading or who are profoundly deaf and use American Sign Language, which is heavily dependent on facial expressions
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