Category: Durham Regional Police

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Durham Durham Regional Police Police Press Releases

$2.5 Million Con: Interactive Brokers Ruse Ends in Arrest Of PEKALA #FraudExposed #CrimePaysWell

A male is in custody after fraudulently collecting over $2.5 million for an investment scam.

In June 2024, the DRPS Financial Crimes Unit (FCU) began an investigation into a male who told two victims he was a financial trader and could guarantee high returns on investments using the platform ‘Interactive Brokers’.

Between March 2023 and March 2024, the suspect persuaded the victims to transfer him large sums of money to be invested.  The suspect told the victims to open accounts via ‘Interactive Brokers’, where the suspect would have sole control over trading.

The suspect enticed the victims to transfer funds by driving luxury high end cars, and showing them forged investment return statements.  During this period, the suspect collected over $2.5 million in funds from the victims, which he used to finance his extravagant lifestyle.

On Sunday, September 21, 2025, investigators from the FCU completed their investigation and took the suspect into custody.

Alex Noah PEKALA, age 23 from Oshawa is charged with: Fraud Over $5000 x2.

He was held for a bail hearing.

Anyone with information about this or similar incidents is asked to contact Det. Jaciuk of the Financial Crimes Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5353.

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 $2,000 cash reward.

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Durham Regional Police OPP Pickering

Police Investigating After Male Shot in Pickering

Police are investigating after a male was shot in a residential neighbourhood in Pickering.

On Saturday, September 20, 2025, at approximately 3:40 a.m., members of West Division responded to the area of Woodview Avenue and Hogarth Street for an armed person call. Information was received that someone had been shot and a sedan was seen leaving the area. Officers arrived and located an adult male suffering from a gunshot wound. Officers also located a vehicle which had a bullet hole.

The victim was transported to a Toronto-area trauma centre and remains in stable condition.

At this time, police believe this to be an isolated incident.

Police are appealing for any witnesses or anyone with video footage, including dashcam, in either of the locations, to contact police.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Det. Obront of the West Crime Team at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5858

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 $2,000 cash reward.

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Durham Durham Regional Police Police Press Releases

Police: Vehicle Drove Toward Students, Fled Along Waterfront Trail

A male is facing charges after driving dangerously through a high school field and a nearby walking trail in Oshawa.

On Friday, September 19, 2025, at approximately 3:40 p.m., members of Central East Division responded to reports of a vehicle driving dangerously through the parking lot and sports field of G.L. Roberts Collegiate Vocational Institute (CVI).  The vehicle was seen driving dangerously toward students in the area before fleeing along an adjacent waterfront trail.  Police attended the area and located debris from the vehicle nearby. 

The driver was identified as the parent of a student at the school, who had driven through the property after learning their child had been involved in an altercation with other students at the school.  Officers attended the suspect’s residence and took him into custody without incident.

No persons suffered any physical injuries.

A 31-year-old male of Oshawa is charged with: Dangerous Operation of a Conveyance, and Assault with a Weapon.

The accused was released on an Undertaking.

The identity of the accused is being withheld to protect the identity of the student.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Det. Price of the Central East Division Criminal Investigations Branch at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 3963.

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 $2,000 cash reward.

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Durham Durham Regional Police

Woman Found Deceased With Signs Of Trama – Homicide Squad Investigating

Police are investigating after a female was found deceased with obvious signs of a trauma at a residence in Newcastle.

On Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at approximately 9:10 a.m., members of East Division responded to an unknown trouble call at a residence in the area of Farrow Avenue and Highway 2.  Officers located a female with obvious signs of trauma, who was pronounced deceased.

At this time, this is believed to be an isolated incident.

The Homicide Unit has taken over the investigation and is urging anyone with information to contact police.

Anyone who was in the area or may have witnessed suspicious activity is urged to contact police. If you have any information about this incident, please contact Det. Green of the Homicide Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5319.

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 $2,000 cash reward.

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Durham Regional Police Police Press Releases

Homeless Repeat Offender Arrested After Stabbing #3Strikes #DeathPenalty

Police have arrested a 32-year-old male in relation to a stabbing in Oshawa.

On Saturday, August 16, 2025, at approximately 1:30 p.m., members from Central East Division were called to Albert Street and Albany Street after two people were located injured on the sidewalk.  Officers arrived on scene and determined the two victims had been stabbed.  Both victims were transported to a local hospital where they remain in stable condition. 

Investigators were able to identify a suspect and issue an arrest warrant. On Wednesday August 20, 2025 at approximately 2:25 a.m. officers from Central East Division were responding to a suspicious person call in the area of Simcoe Street South and Olive Avenue when they located the suspect and he was arrested without incident.

Treven GREEN, age 32, of No Fixed Address, is charged with multiple offences, including: Aggravated Assault x2; Assault with a Weapon x2 and Breach Probation x4.

He was held for a bail hearing.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Det. Baldini of the Central East Division Criminal Investigations Branch at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 2765.

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Durham Regional Police Police Press Releases

Woman Rescued From Ramone STEWART – Police Fear More Victims #DeathPenalty

A 35-year-old male is facing multiple charges after a human trafficking investigation involving a young woman being coerced into the sex trade.

In early June 2025, DRPS Human Trafficking Unit (HTU) launched an investigation into a male who was believed to be trafficking a female victim. The victim was transported by the accused to multiple countries for the purpose of trafficking.

On Tuesday, August 19, 2025, members of the DRPS HTU executed a Criminal Code search warrant at a residence in Oshawa. The accused was taken into custody without incident. During the search, several items were seized including cellphones, travel documents and banking information, as well as a quantity of drugs, and drug paraphernalia.

The Human Trafficking Unit is concerned there may be more victims and are releasing the accused’s photo.  Anyone who has been victimized or has any information is encouraged to contact the Human Trafficking Unit directly.

Ramone STEWART, age 35, of Oshawa is charged with numerous offenses including: Trafficking in Persons; Material Benefit from Sexual Services; Procuring; Withhold Identity Documents; Exercise Control/Direction/Influence; Possession Cocaine for the Purpose of Trafficking.

He was held for a bail hearing.

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Durham Regional Police Police Press Releases

Drug & Weapons Bust

Four males are facing firearm charges after a traffic stop in Oshawa.

On Thursday, August 21, 2025, at approximately 1:30 a.m., officers from Central East Division conducted a traffic stop while on proactive patrol in the area of Albany Street and Simcoe Street South. Officers detected a strong odour of cannabis from the vehicle and conducted a search. During the search, officers located a loaded firearm. Four male suspects were arrested without incident.

Edward BRANNAN, age 42 of Oshawa is facing several charges including: Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm in a Vehicle; Possess Loaded Regulated Firearm; Careless Storage of Firearm; Contravention of Storage Regulations; Possession of Controlled Substance for Purpose of Trafficking; Drive Vehicle with Cannabis Readily Available.

Malik DIABY, age 23 of Whitby is facing several charges including: Possess Prohibited or Restricted Firearm Knowingly Not Holding a Licence; Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm in a Vehicle; Possess Loaded Regulated Firearm; Careless Storage of Firearm; Contravention of Storage Regulations; Possession of Controlled Substance for Purpose of Trafficking x2 and Possession of Firearm While Prohibited x2

Geethan THIRUVARULSELVAN, age 20 of Ajax is facing several charges including: Possess Prohibited or Restricted Firearm Knowingly Not Holding a Licence; Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm in a vehicle; Possess Loaded Regulated Firearm; Careless Storage of Firearm; Contravention of Storage Regulations and  Possession of Controlled Substance for Purposes of Trafficking x3

Cyeth ALLEN, age 21 of no fixed address is facing several charges including: Possess Prohibited or Restricted Firearm Knowingly Not Holding a Licence; Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm in a Vehicle; Possess Loaded Regulated Firearm; Careless Storage of Firearm; Contravention of Storage Regulations and Possession of Controlled Substance for Purposes of Trafficking x2

All accused were held for a bail hearing.

Anyone with any new information is asked to contact Cst Moran-Weekes of Central East Division at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 2067

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 $2,000 cash reward.

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Durham Regional Police Police Press Releases

Motorcyclist Serious Injured

A motorcyclist has been seriously injured after a collision in Clarington.

On Monday, May 26, 202,5 at approximately 3:00 p.m., members from East Division attended a motor vehicle collision on Lakeshore Road east of Stephenson Road.  A black Chevrolet pick-up was eastbound on Lakeshore Road going up a grade, the driver moved over the centre line in order to avoid a parked vehicle.  As the pick-up went over the crest, a westbound Suzuki motorcycle being operated by a 61-year-old male from Oshawa had crested the grade. As a result, a collision occurred between the black Chevrolet and the motorcycle in the westbound lane, and the motorcycle rider was ejected from his bike.

The motorcycle rider suffered serious, life-threatening injuries and was transported by Durham EMS to a local area hospital. ORNGE Air Ambulance attended and transferred the male to a Toronto-area Trauma Centre where he remains in the Critical Care Unit with serious life-threatening injuries.

The operator of the pick-up cooperated with Police and was uninjured.

Members of the DRPS – Collision Investigation Unit, attended the scene and investigated the circumstances of the incident. The area of the roadway was closed for a period of time while evidence was collected. This collision is still under investigation.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call DC Kollaard at 905-579-1520 (toll free 1-888-579-1520) ext. 5267.

Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 and tipsters may be eligible for a $2,000 cash reward. 

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Durham Regional Police Police Press Releases

House Vs Drunk Driver – One Arrested

A male is facing impaired driving charges after crashing into a home in Whitby.                                             

On Saturday May 24, 2025 at approximately 11:50 p.m., members from Central West Division attended the area of Carnwith Drive East and Watford Street after a motor vehicle left the roadway and struck a house.

A white Chevrolet pick-up was travelling northbound on Watford Street at a high rate of speed when he failed to stop for the stop sign and crashed into a home. The collision caused significant structural damage to the residence.

The driver of the pick-up truck fled the scene on foot. Officers searched the area with the assistance of Air1 and located the male not far from the scene of the incident. The male was arrested and taken to Central East Division to provide breath samples.

Lucas DESBOIS age 25, of Whitby is charged with: Impaired Operation of a Conveyance, Impaired Operation Exceed Blood Alcohol Concentration, Dangerous Operation of a Conveyance and Fail to Remain at the Scene of an Accident.

He was released on an Undertaking.

Due to the significant damage to the residence, members of the DRPS – Collision Investigation Unit attended the scene and investigated the incident. The area of the roadway was closed for a period of time while evidence was collected. This collision is still under investigation.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call Constable Travale at 905-579-1520 ext. 2998.

Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 and tipsters may be eligible for a $2,000 cash reward. 

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Durham Regional Police Police Press Releases

Fatal E-Bike Collision

A 50-year-old male has died after a collision with a motor vehicle in Oshawa.

On Sunday, May 25, 2025, at approximately 12:30 p.m., members from Central East Division responded to a report of a collision at Harmony Road North and Storie Avenue.  A southbound e-bike and a northbound Buick Encore, which was making a left-hand turn, collided. A 50-year-old male e-bike rider sustained serious injuries and was pronounced deceased at a local area hospital. The driver of the Buick was not injured, remained at the scene, and cooperated with Police.    

Members of the DRPS Collision Investigation Unit attended the scene to conduct an investigation. The roads in the area were closed for several hours while evidence was collected. 

Anyone with information about this incident or who witnessed this collision is asked to call Detective Constable Kollaard at 905-579-1520 ext. 5267 (toll free 1-888-579-1520).

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.

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Durham Regional Police Police Press Releases

Pervert Alert: James DAW Arrested

A 72-year-old is facing charges following a child luring investigation.

On Tuesday, April 8, 2025, members from the DRPS Internet Child Exploitation Unit (ICE) concluded an investigation concerning an adult male communicating with whom he believed was a 13-year-old girl. The male sent sexually explicit messages and images to the girl, asking her to send him photos.

A Criminal Code search warrant was executed at two residences in Hamilton and the suspect was taken into custody without incident.

The suspect communicated with the username: “JuniorJohnson”. 

Police are concerned there may be other victims and are requesting anyone with information to come forward.

A photo of the suspect is attached and can be viewed at www.drps.ca

James DAW, age 72, of Hamilton is charged with: Luring a Person Under 16 to Facilitate the Offence of Sexual Assault; Luring a Person Under 16 to Facilitate the Offence of sexual Interference; Luring a Person Under 16 to Facilitate the Offence of Exposure; Luring a Person Under 18 to Facilitate the Offence of Making Child Pornography and Make Sexually Explicit Material Available to a Person Under 18 for the Purpose of Making Child Pornography.

He was held for a bail hearing.

Anyone with information about this or similar incidents is asked to contact D/Cst. Tyrell of the Internet Child Exploitation Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5544.

For more information on our ICE unit and resources that are available please visit our website at https://www.drps.ca/community-safety-and-support/crime-prevention/internet-safety-and-child-exploitation/

The Durham Regional Police would like to acknowledge the assistance of the Canadian National and Ontario Provincial Strategies to Protect Children from Sexual Abuse and Exploitation on the Internet. This project has been made possible by a grant from the Ministry of the Solicitor General.

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.

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Durham Regional Police Police Press Releases

Marten WOODS Was Arrested

A male has been arrested for pointing a firearm at a victim in Whitby.

On Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at approximately 2:40 p.m., members of Central West Division responded to an armed person call in the area of Dundas Street West and Frances Street. It was reported that the suspect pointed a firearm at the victim and threatened to shoot them. The suspect fled the area before police arrived.

Officers were able to locate the suspect and arrested him without incident. The firearm involved is believed to be a replica.

Marten WOODS, age 37, of No Fixed Address is charged with: Uttering Threats to Cause Death or Bodily Harm; Point a Firearm and Breach of Probation.

He was held for a bail hearing.

Anyone with information about these incidents is asked to contact Cst. Petschenig of Central West Division at 1-888-579-1520 at ext. 2448.

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.

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Durham Regional Police Police Press Releases

Woman Scams Money Mart Out Of $30,000

A woman is facing fraud charges after obtaining over $30,000 from a Money Mart.

On December 4, 2024, at approximately 5:20 p.m., a female suspect visited a Money Mart in Oshawa, where she successfully cashed a fraudulent cheque, receiving over $30,000 in cash. The Financial Crimes Unit took over the investigation and were able to identity the female responsible.

Further investigation revealed the female was also involved in a separate incident where she obtained a vehicle by fraudulent means.  

On Wednesday, February 26, 2025, she was arrested for both incidents.

Rebecca Anne GARDINER, age 36 of Peterborough is charged with Fraud Over $5000 x2, Utter Forged Document and Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000.

She was released on an undertaking.

Anyone with information about this or similar incidents is asked to contact D/Cst. Reeves of the Financial Crimes Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5241.

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 $2,000 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. 

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Durham Regional Police Police Press Releases

“Massage” Therapist Arrested For Sexual Assault

A 59-year-old registered massage therapist (RMT) has been charged with sexual assault.

On Monday, January 27, 2025, the suspect was employed as an RMT at a Physiotherapy and Wellness Clinic located in the area of Wilson Road North and Taunton Road East in Oshawa. During a massage, the suspect touched the victim inappropriately. The suspect was arrested and charged on February 17, 2025.

Franklin JIMENEZ, age 59, of Oshawa is charged with: Sexual Assault.

He was released on an Undertaking.

JIMENEZ has worked as an RMT for over 20 years in a number of clinics across Durham and the Greater Toronto Area.  He is no longer employed at the Wilson Road North and Taunton Road East location.

Police are concerned there may be more victims.

A photo of JIMENEZ is attached and can be viewed at www.drps.ca

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact D/Cst. Cronin of East Criminal Investigations Branch at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 1649.

 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.

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Durham Regional Police Police Press Releases

14 Year Old Arrested After Stabbing

A 14-year-old male is facing charges after a stabbing in Oshawa.

On Friday, February 14, 2025, at approximately 10:40 p.m., members of Central East Division responded to a stabbing in the area of Rideau Street and Saguenay Avenue. A male and female were in the backyard of a residence when the homeowner confronted them. The owner chased the pair at which point the male stabbed him. The victim suffered a stab wound to the upper arm and attended a local hospital with serious injuries.

The male suspect was located in the area and arrested.

A 14-year-old male from Oshawa is charged with: Assault with a Weapon and Assault Cause Bodily Harm.

He was released on an Undertaking.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact D/Cst. Wade of Central East Criminal Investigation Bureau at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 2740.

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.