Categories
Chatham-Kent Police Press Releases

Chatham-Kent Daily News Release- December 12th 2024

Chatham-Kent, Ontario: The Chatham-Kent Police Service responded to 171 calls for service in the last 24 hours.  Four people were arrested, and three were on outstanding warrants.

Woman arrested for Mischief- CK24064092

Yesterday at approximately 9:44PM, Police were called to a business on St. Clair Street in Chatham regarding a female party inside that was causing a disturbance.

Police learned that the female was told by business employees to leave the premises, and that the female responded by throwing a pot of coffee.

Police arrived and placed the female under arrest. The 34-year-old Chatham woman has been charged for Mischief and held in custody pending a Bail Hearing.

Winter Driving

Snow on a road may be hard-packed and slippery as ice.  Or it can be smooth and soft.  Wet snow can make for slushy roads.  Heavy slush can build up in the wheel wells of your vehicle and can affect your ability to steer.

Remember to increase your following distance and look ahead as you drive, so you can recognize hazards with plenty time to respond.  Consider purchasing snow tires for your vehicle, they improve traction in the snow.

The Chatham-Kent Police Service reminds all motorists to drive according to the road and weather conditions.  Slow down and be prepared before heading out by checking the weather forecast or Ministry of Transportation Traveler Information Service at www.ontario.ca/511 as highway conditions are updated regularly.

Categories
Municipalities Perth

County to Discontinue PC Connect Rural Route Service in Early 2025

PERTH COUNTY, ON – At a meeting on December 5, 2024, County Council made the decision to discontinue the PC Connect Transit pilot project, currently operating as the Rural Route, as of March 31, 2025. Since launch, the program has been fully funded through the Provincial Government’s Community Transportation (CT) Grant Program and all funding is scheduled to be utilized  on or before the service end date.

Note that PC Connect Routes 1,2 & 3 offering service between Stratford, St. Marys, London, Kitchener-Waterloo and North Perth are not impacted by this decision.

“Council is pleased at the success of the PC Connect pilot program during its operating period in Perth County. The pilot project would not have been possible without the financial support from the Provincial Government.” said Perth County Warden Doug Kellum. “The cost to continue operating the service was not sustainable through fare revenue alone, and with many budget pressures facing Council in the 2025 budget period, the County could not to continue to fund the necessary level of service required to keep the Rural Route running beyond the pilot period.”

“We thank our riders who have supported the PC Connect Rural Route service since 2020.” said Justin Dias, Economic Development Officer. “We have consistently received positive feedback about the service and the impact that it has had throughout its pilot period.”

In a report to Council, staff noted the cost to continue operation of the service beyond the Provincially funded pilot period would be an estimated $225,103 in 2025. Those costs are expected to increase significantly in 2026 in the absence of any CT funds and acquisition of new fleet vehicles as the current buses reach the end of their life. The County is in the midst of 2025 Budget deliberation process which is under significant pressure due to inflationary increase.

At present, all PC Connect routes will continue normal operations. A detailed plan for the conclusion of the Rural Route service will be communicated to riders in early 2025. Council made an additional motion to continue advocacy for rural transit with the MP and MPP as well as for staff to report on available alternatives for transportation.

Quick Facts

  • PC Connect has been in operation since 2020 as a result of a $2.47 million grant from the Ministry of Transportation’s Community Transportation (CT) program
  • PC Connect operates as four routes with Perth County administering the Rural Route service and Routes 1,2 &3 operated in partnership by the City of Stratford, Town of St. Marys and Municipality of North Perth
  • To date, PC Connect’s Rural Route has provided 16,890 rides
  • For more information about the PC Connect Service, visit: www.perthcounty.ca/PCConnect
Categories
Durham Regional Police Police Press Releases

Firearms & Drugs Seized – Mario K FRANCIS Arrested

A male is facing charges after an investigation leads to firearms and drug possession in Ajax.

In November, 2024, investigators from the Human Trafficking Unit (HTU) began an investigation into a male believed to be in possession of a firearm and involved in trafficking females.

On Wednesday, December 11, 2024, members of the HTU, with the assistance of the Robbery Unit, arrested the suspect and executed search warrants in Ajax.  A search of the suspect located a loaded handgun in his front waistband.  Two additional loaded handguns, a quantity of drugs, and numerous electronics were located during the search warrants.

Mario K FRANCIS, age 35, from Ajax is charged with numerous offences including: Possess Loaded Restricted/Prohibited Firearm x3, Possess Restricted/Prohibited Firearm – No Licence x3, Possess Prohibited DeviceCarry Concealed Weapon, Careless Storage of a Firearm x3, Occupy Vehicle with Firearm, Tampering with Serial Number, Possession of a Schedule I Substance (cocaine)and Fail to Comply with Probation Order x3.

He was held for a bail hearing.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Human Trafficking Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5600.

Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca and tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward.

The information in this media release contains facts and circumstances that have been obtained from a police investigation.  These allegations have yet to be proven in court. 

Categories
Guelph Police Service Police Press Releases

Guelph Police Daily Update 13Dec2024

More than $17k in phones, watches stolen

The Guelph Police Service is investigating after more than $17,000 worth of phones and smart watches were stolen from a business.

Wednesday morning, police were called to a business at Stone Road Mall after the manager arrived to find a drawer pried open and the devices missing. Surveillance video showed two males walking around the mall until after it had closed, then one entered the stand-alone business and removed the product. A crowbar was left behind.

The stolen devices were valued at $17,810.

The first suspect was described as having brown skin and a heavy build with short black hair and facial hair. He was wearing a red puffy jacket, black shirt, black pants and black shoes. The second also had brown skin, slim build with short black hair and facial hair. He was wearing a blue puffy jacket, black pants and red Nike shoes.

Anyone with information is asked to call Constable Matthew Neault at 519-824-1212, ext. 7601, email [email protected], leave an anonymous message for Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or leave an anonymous tip online at www.csgw.tips.

Sent nudes lead to child porn charges

A Guelph teen faces child pornography charges after nude photos of her ex-boyfriend were sent to his parents.

In late November a Guelph woman attended the police station to report receiving texts containing nude photos of her 16-year-old son, who had broken up with his girlfriend two days earlier. A few days later the same photos were also sent to the boy’s father.

On Thursday, a 16-year-old Guelph girl was arrested for possessing child pornography and two counts each of distributing child pornography and distributing intimate images without consent. She will appear in court in January.

This investigation was made possible by a grant from the Ministry of the Solicitor General. 

Arrest in garage break-in

A Guelph man has been arrested after a break-in at a downtown apartment building.

Approximately 2:30 a.m. November 25, two males were caught on video in the lobby of an apartment building near Woolwich Street and Eramosa Road. Neither live in the building.

The pair made their way to the entrance to the parking garage, where they were caught on video prying the door mechanism for several minutes before gaining entry to the garage. Both entered a vehicle and stole items including a small amount of cash, sunglasses and documents.

On Wednesday a 36-year-old Guelph man was located downtown and arrested for break and enter and theft under $5,000. He will appear in court January 28. Police are still looking for the second involved male.

Total calls for service in the last 24 hours – 188

Categories
OPP Police Press Releases Serpent River First Nation

Police Warn Of Drones

(SERPENT RIVER FIRST NATION, ON)- Reminder to anyone operating a drone that it is your responsibility to operate it safely and legally.

On December 11, 2024, the East Algoma Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) received a complaint about a drone flying over the homes of certain Serpent River First Nation community members, including during early mornings and late evenings. One incident involved a drone flying near a residence at 5:00 a.m., coming close to an individual’s bedroom window.

In Canada, you must follow the rules set out in the Canadian Aviation Regulations, respect the applicable Criminal Code related sections, and all municipal, provincial, and territorial laws related to trespassing and privacy.

Before flying a drone, make sure to understand the rules that apply and follow them:

All drones between 250 grams (g) and 25 kilograms (kg) in weight must be registered. This includes custom-built drones and drones built from a kit or off-the shelf.

Drones under 250 g do not need to be registered unless something is attached to it that increases its weight to 250 g or more.

Drones over 25 kg also do not need to be registered but require a special flight operations certificate instead.

Is a Licence Required?

Only if the drone is between 250 g and 25 kg, the operator must carry a valid drone pilot certificate, and the drone must be registered. If you are flying a drone that is less than 250 grams, you do not need to register the drone or get a drone pilot certificate.

Penalties

If you fly a drone without meeting these requirements, fines are:

$1000 for recreational users

$5000 for commercial users

Police are asking drone operators to respect the privacy of others, be responsible and avoid flying over private property. Everyone has a reasonable expectation of privacy. 

Categories
City Of Kawartha Lakes OPP Police Press Releases

17 Year Old Facing Explosives Charge

(CITY OF KAWARTHA LAKES, ON) – Members of the City of Kawartha Lakes Detachment, Haliburton Highlands Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), and members of the Kawartha Lakes Police Service (KLPS) have laid a charge in connection to an unknown substance being brought into a school

On December 11, 2024, KLPS officers received information regarding an unknown substance being brought into school by a student. It was determined that there was no threat to public or school safety. Members of the City of Kawartha Lakes and Haliburton Highlands OPP were notified and in conjunction with the KLPS, continued the investigation.  

As a result, a youth from Minden Hills Township has been arrested and charged for an offence related to explosives.

Out of an abundance of caution, members from the OPP Explosive Disposal Unit have attended the school and confirmed that there is no threat to public safety.

Categories
Guelph Police Service Police Press Releases

Guelph Man Arrested For Attempted Murder

A Guelph man faces attempted murder and other charges following a disturbance Thursday morning at a home near downtown.

Just before 7 a.m. a passerby reported an injured male walking along Arthur Street South. An officer located the injured male at Wellington Street East and Neeve Street.

Further investigation led officers to a nearby home, where they observed signs of a struggle and found a second male suffering from injuries to his head and face. He was transported to hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.

A 27-year-old Guelph man is charged with attempted murder, aggravated assault, robbery and breaking into a residence to commit an indictable offence. He was held for a bail hearing December 17.

The involved males are known to each other and this was a targeted incident.

Categories
Ottawa Police Service Police Press Releases

Stay Safe This Winter Season: Ice, Trail, and Winter Activity Safety Tips

(Ottawa)—With winter in full swing, the Ottawa Police Service reminds residents to exercise caution during seasonal activities and follow essential precautions to stay safe. 

Ice Safety 

Ottawa’s waterways are beautiful but unpredictable, especially during the winter months. Despite freezing temperatures, ice thickness can vary greatly, presenting serious hidden dangers. 

Everyone, even strong swimmers, are at risk in icy water due to its frigid temperatures, which can lead to hypothermia and make self-rescue nearly impossible. 

  • Avoid venturing onto icy waterways: Ice is inherently dangerous and unpredictable, particularly at this time of year. Always stay away from rivers, ponds, creeks, and ditches, even if they appear frozen. 
  • Supervise children and pets: Children are naturally curious and may wander toward icy areas, which can be life-threatening. A child can drown in less than two inches of water. Keep pets leashed near waterways, as rescuing a pet can place you in danger. 
  • Do not attempt a rescue: If someone or a pet ventures onto thin ice and falls through, do not follow them. Call 9-1-1 immediately for professional help. 

Skaters should, consult the City of Ottawa’s Skating Safety & Regulations page  or the National Capital Commission (NCC) Rideau Canal Skateway page for public skating locations. Always check conditions and respect any barriers or closure signs. 

Trail Safety 

Winter trails offer great opportunities for recreation, but they come with their own set of risks. During the winter, you will find the Ottawa Police Marine Dive and Trail (MDT) officers on many trails in our area doing education and enforcement with drivers of off-road vehicles and snowmobiles. 

To stay safe: 

  • Stay on designated trails and avoid waterways, even if they appear frozen. 
  • Adjust your driving to the changing conditions.  Trail conditions will change over the course of a day due to weather, traffic, and other conditions.   

Motorized Snow Vehicles (Snowmobiles): 

  • Always wear proper safety equipment. 
  • Carry proof of valid insurance, ID, and a trail pass.  
  • Stay on designated trails and avoid trespassing or venturing onto ice or water. 
  • Drive sober and obey posted speed limits. 
  • Operate snowmobiles during daylight hours when visibility is better. 

Check the Ontario Federation of Snowmobile Clubs (OFSC) website for trail openings, updates, training and more. 

Sledding and Tobogganing Safety 

For families enjoying sledding or tobogganing, follow these safety tips: 

  • Only sled on hills that are free of obstacles like trees, rocks, and fences. Respect any city signs or barriers. 
  • Avoid icy hills or those near roads, railways, or bodies of water. 
  • Always wear a helmet. Hockey or ski helmets are recommended for their impact resistance and cold-weather design. 
  • Supervise children at all times.  
  • Avoid sledding after dark. 

General Winter Safety 

Whatever activity you choose, always recognize the risks and stay aware of your surroundings. 

  • Tell someone your plan: Inform someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back. Ensure your cell phone is fully charged but recognize that reception may vary depending on your location. 
  • Help us find you in an emergency. Download the What3Words app. 

Whether you’re skating, sledding, or enjoying the trails, planning and taking precautions will help ensure a safe and memorable winter season. 

Categories
Police Press Releases Toronto Police

Two Men Arrested and Gun Seized in Theft of Vehicle Investigation,Warden Avenue and Bridletowne Circle area

The Toronto Police Service is making the public aware of an arrest made in a Theft of Motor Vehicle investigation.

On Thursday, December 12, 2024, at approximately 12 p.m., police responded to a call for a located stolen vehicle in the Warden Avenue and Bridletowne Circle area.

It is alleged that:

  • officers received a call for a stolen vehicle in the area
  • officers attended and blocked the vehicle in a parking spot
  • the driver of the vehicle then collided with an unmarked police vehicle
  • the two suspects then attempted to flee the area on foot
  • after a foot pursuit, officers arrested both parties

It is further alleged that:

  • a firearm and magazine were located on one of the suspects
  • tools used in the commission of auto thefts were also located

Images have been released. 

Abdul Anjam, 23, of Brampton, has been arrested and charged with:

  1. Theft of Motor Vehicle
  2. Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Exceeding $5000
  3. Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle
  4. Occupy Motor Vehicle with a Firearm
  5. Possess a Restricted Firearm with Ammunition
  6. Possess Firearm Without a License
  7. Possess Restricted Weapon Knowing no Authority
  8. Possess Prohibited Device
  9. Possess Firearm Other than Restricted Firearm Knowingly Not Holding a License
  10. Possess Electric Device for Motor Vehicle Theft

He is scheduled to appear at the Toronto Regional Bail Centre, 2201 Finch Avenue West, on Friday, December 13, 2024, at 10 a.m., in room 103.

Jahid Golan, 24, of Mount Hope, has been arrested and charged with:

  1. Theft of Motor Vehicle
  2. Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Exceeding $5000
  3. Occupy Motor Vehicle with a Firearm
  4. Possess Firearm Without a License
  5. Possess Restricted Weapon Knowing no Authority
  6. Possess Prohibited Device
  7. Possess Firearm Other than Restricted Firearm Knowingly Not Holding a License
  8. two counts Possess Firearm while Prohibited
  9. Possess Electric Device for Motor Vehicle Theft
  10. Escape Lawful Custody

He is scheduled to appear at the Toronto Regional Bail Centre, 2201 Finch Avenue West, on Friday, December 13, 2024, at 10 a.m., in room 103.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-42, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), or at www.222tips.com.

Categories
OPP Police Press Releases Wasaga Beach

William HATTON – Drunk Driving

(TOWN OF WASAGA BEACH, ON) – The Huronia West Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have charged an individual with impaired driving related charges because of a traffic tip.

On December 12, 2024, at approximately 3:50 p.m., Huronia West OPP officers responded to a traffic tip of a possible impaired driver on County Road 10, heading westbound towards Wasaga Beach.

At approximately 4:10 p.m., officers attended the registered owners address in Wasaga Beach where they located the vehicle approaching. Officers conducted a traffic stop and noticed an odour of alcohol on the driver’s breath which led into an impaired driving investigation. As a result, William HATTON, 39-year-old of Wasaga Beach, was arrested and has been charged with the following:

·      Operation while Impaired – Blood Alcohol Concentration (80 Plus)

·      Dangerous Operation

The accused is scheduled to appear in court at a later date.

Drivers and members of the public are reminded to respect our communities, comply with all laws, and not jeopardize the safety of our citizens or our neighborhoods with risky, illegal, and dangerous actions.

Categories
Collingwood OPP Police Press Releases

24 Year Old Facing Impaired Charge

(COLLINGWOOD, ON) – On the afternoon of December 12, 2024, members of the Ontario Provincial Police responded to a call for service about a male sitting in a motor vehicle parked in a public lot.

The officers of the Collingwood OPP located the vehicle and investigated the male driver for drug impairment. Ultimately, the 24-year-old Collingwood resident was taken into custody and charged with:

  • Operation while Impaired – alcohol and drug (Criminal Code)
  • Having Care or Control of a motor vehicle with Open Container of Liquor
  • Having Care or Control of vehicle/boat with cannabis in open baggage

A KANWARDEEP SINGH was released from custody and is set to appear in Collingwood court on January 21st, 2025. 

Categories
Caledon OPP Police Press Releases

Meth Bust – Lance CAINES Arrested

(CALEDON, ON) – Members of the Caledon Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have laid charges in connection to a stolen vehicle investigation.

In December 2024, the Caledon OPP Community Street Crime Unit (CSCU) conducted an investigation into stolen vehicles at a rural property in the area of McLaughlin Road and Old School Road in the Town of Caledon. The investigation led officers to execute a search warrant at that location. Two stolen vehicles were recovered, as well as an amount of methamphetamine.

As a result, Lance CAINES, 40, of Caledon, was charged with:

• Possession property obtained by crime over $5000

• Possession of a Schedule I substance – Methamphetamine

The accused is scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice in Orangeville on January 30, 2025, to answer to the charges.

If you suspect illegal activity in your neighbourhood, call 1-888-310-1122. You can also provide information anonymously by contacting Peel Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.peelcrimestoppers.ca. When you contact Crime Stoppers, you stay anonymous, and you never have to testify.

Categories
Haliburton OPP Police Press Releases

7 Distracted Drivers In 2 Days

(HALIBURTON COUNTY, ON) – Members of the Haliburton Highlands Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have charged seven drivers with distracted driving related charges in two days.

Between December 12 – December 13, 2024, members of the Haliburton Highlands OPP laid numerous traffic related charges. Officers conducted R.I.D.E. spot checks as well as conducting traffic enforcement with a focus on the “Big Four” which included impaired driving, distracted driving, speeding, and lack of seatbelt use.

The statistics speak for themselves in relation to distracted driving. Seven drivers were charged with driving while on their cellphones. The fine for driving while using a handheld communication device as outlined in the Highway Traffic Act results in a total payable fine of $615 and 3 to 6 demerit points.

While you are driving, including when you are stopped in traffic or at a red light, it is illegal to:

·        Use a phone or other hand-held wireless communication device to text or dial – you can only touch a device to call 911 in an emergency.

·        Use a hand-held electronic entertainment device, such as a tablet or portable gaming console.

·        View display screens unrelated to driving, such as watching a video.

·        Program a GPS device, except by voice commands.

You are allowed to use hands-free wireless communications devices with an earpiece, lapel button or Bluetooth. You can view GPS display screens as long as they are built into your vehicle’s dashboard or securely mounted on the dashboard.

The OPP and Traffic Safety partners remain committed to saving lives on our roads. For safety and crime prevention tips, please visit our website at www.opp.ca.

The Haliburton Highlands OPP is committed to serving our province, including Haliburton County. If you have any information about crime in our community, please contact the OPP at 1-800-310-1122 or submit your information online at www.khcrimestoppers.com. Should you wish to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS). Crime Stoppers does not subscribe to call display, and you will remain anonymous. You will not testify in court and your information may lead to a cash reward up to $2000. 

Categories
Blind River OPP Police Press Releases

Head On Collision – Ryan FREE Charged

(BLIND RIVER)- OPP respond to a motor vehicle collision involving two vehicles.

On December 10, 2024, at approximately 3:00 p.m., the East Algoma Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and the Algoma Paramedic Services responded to a motor vehicle collision within the 200 block of Causley Street in the Town of Blind River.

Investigation determined a westbound white SUV collided head on with an eastbound black car. The driver of the black car suffered non-life-threatening injuries.

The driver of the white SUV, Ryan FREE, 52 years-old from Elliot Lake, was charged with:

  • Operation while prohibited under the Criminal Code
  • Careless driving

The accused is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Elliot Lake on February 6, 2025.

Categories
OPP Police Press Releases Wellington North

46 Year Old Charged With Assault

(WELLINGTON NORTH TWP, ON) – The Wellington County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) charges a local resident with two criminal charges in relation to an intimate partner violence investigation.

On December 12, 2024, at approximately 6:45 p.m., members of the Wellington County Ontario Provincial Police were dispatched to a report of a disturbance at an address in Wellington North Township.

As a result of the investigation, a 46-year-old of Wellington North Township, has been charged under the Criminal Code with the following:

  • Assault – Spousal (two counts)

The accused has been released from police custody and is scheduled to appear in the Ontario Court of Justice – Guelph at a later date.

The OPP will not release names to protect the identity of the victims.

Victims of intimate partner violence and sexual assault are not alone. If you, or someone you know, needs support, there are local resources listed below that are available to help:

·        Victim Services Wellington: 519-824-1212

·        Sexual Assault / Domestic Violence Care and Treatment Centre: 519-837-6440

·        Guelph-Wellington Women in Crisis: 519-836-1110 or 1-800-265-7233

The OPP can be reached anytime, anywhere in the Province of Ontario at 1-888-310-1122. If you wish to remain anonymous you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) where you may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $2000.