Category: Durham Regional Police

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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. 

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Durham Regional Police Police Press Releases

Pervert Alert: Christopher JACKSON Arrested For Child Porn Etc.

Additional charges have been laid in a child pornography investigation where three new victims have been identified.

On Wednesday, July 31, 2024, members of the Internet Child Exploitation Unit (ICE), executed a search warrant at the residence of a male believed to be making and sharing child pornography, using the Telegram app with user names: ‘C Ja’ and “Nomey6969’.  The suspect was arrested and charged with failing to comply with the SOIRA and Christopher’s Law.  Several electronic devices were seized from the residence.

Subsequent analysis of the suspect’s electronic devices revealed a multitude of child pornographic content, including plans to travel and commit sexual acts on underage persons.

The suspect was arrested on August 30, 2024 and further charged with a number of offences.  He was held in custody.

Further investigation led to the identification of a victim in Durham Region. With the assistance of the RCMP/NCECC and the Philippines National Police, two additional victims were identified in the Philippines.

The suspect has remained in custody since August 30, 2024, and is now facing eight additional charges.

Christopher JACKSON, age 30, of Clarington is facing additional charges of: Sexual Assault; Sexual Interference; Make Child Pornography x2; Voyeurism x2; Non-Consensual Distribution of Intimate Image and Agree/Arrange – Sexual Offence Against a Child under 18.

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

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/

Anyone with information about this or similar incidents is asked to contact D/Cst. Mayhew of the Internet Child Exploitation Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5502.

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

Nurse Arrested After Sexual Assault at Long-Term Care Home

A 75-year-old registered nurse has been arrested and charged with sexual assault at a long-term care home.

On Tuesday, October 15, 2024, the suspect was employed as a nurse at Fosterbrooke Long-Term Care Home located at 330 King Avenue West in Newcastle. During his shift, the suspect was located in the room of a resident where he was touching the victim inappropriately.

Eliezer MAGDAMO, age 75, of Oshawa is charged with: Sexual Assault.

He was released on an Undertaking.

MAGDAMO previously worked at the following facilities (with approximate years of employment):

Whitby Mental Health Centre (now known as Ontario Shores) – 1980-2010

Altima Long-Term Care (now known as Glen Rouge Community/Long-Term Care) – 2011-2015

Fosterbrooke Long-Term Care – 2011 – 2024

Police are concerned there may be more victims.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact D/Cst. Mayhew of the East Criminal Investigations Bureau at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 3833.

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

Pervert Alert – Hammad ABOWATH Arrsted – Details Released

Police are concerned there may be more victims after a 21-year-old male was arrested and charged with committing sexual offences against a minor.

On Friday, February 7, 2025, members of the Durham Regional Police Service’s Human Trafficking Unit (HTU) began an investigation after it was learned a 14-year-old girl was being groomed for human trafficking.  The victim had been contacted, unsolicited, by a male on Snapchat who claimed he was 18 years old and went by the name “Ace.” The victim informed him that she was 14-years-old but the male continued to engage with her.  During this time the accused and victim met up on several occasions.

On Wednesday, February 12, 2025, a Criminal Code search warrant was executed at the male’s residence on Brimley Road in Scarborough. With the assistance of uniformed members, HTU investigators executed the warrant, and a male was arrested without incident.

Hammad ABOWATH, age 21 of Toronto, is charged with Sexual Interference with a person under 16 years of age and Invitation to Sexual Touching Under 16 years of age.

He was held for a bail hearing.

A support network for survivors of human trafficking has been established in the Region of Durham.  These services can be accessed via www.stopht.com.

Victim Services of Durham Region is available for anyone who needs free, confidential support without judgement. Visit their website at www.victimservicesdurham.ca.

Anyone who has been victimized by the accused or has any information about this or similar incidents 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.

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Durham Regional Police Police Press Releases

5Kg Meth Bust – Names Released

Almost five kilograms of crystal meth was seized during the Super Bowl RIDE line.

On Sunday, February 9, 2025 members of RIDE were conducting a RIDE checkpoint in the area of Consumers Drive and Garden Street in Whitby. The suspects entered the checkpoint in a black Volkswagen SUV and spoke with officers who detected an odour of cannabis. A search was conducted under the Cannabis Control Act, resulting in the seizure of almost five kilograms of crystal meth.  

Darren SIMPSON, age 31, of Whitby is charged with: Possession of a Schedule I Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking x2 – cocaine; crystal meth.

Adam PERSAUD, age 34, of Oshawa is charged with: Possession of a Schedule I Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking – crystal meth; Operate Motor Vehicle with Cannabis Readily Available and Operate Motor vehicle with Liquor Readily Available.

They were both held for a bail hearing.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Cst. Arafat of the Community Resource Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 2943.

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

Repeat Offenders Arrested Again

Two males from Quebec have been arrested for multiple offences after a collision in Oshawa on Sunday night.

On Sunday, February 2, 2025 at approximately 9:35 p.m., members of Central East Division responded to collision involving two vehicles in the area of Olive Street and Ritson Road South. One of the vehicles involved was an unplated black BMW SUV and the four occupants had fled on foot. Two of the suspects were located nearby and arrested.

The occupants of the other vehicle sustained minor injuries as a result of the collision.

Members from Project Attire – Auto Theft Unit and the Central East Criminal Investigations Branch, determined the BMW was associated to numerous thefts and attempted thefts of motor vehicles. The BMW was seized and a warrant is being sought.

Onyie ANDRE, age 19, of Quebec is charged with numerous offences, including: Fail to Comply with Release Order x3; Possess Electronic Device Suitable for Auto Theft for the Purpose of Auto Theft and Theft of Motor Vehicle.

Cyriaque KOFFI, age 19, of Quebec is charged with numerous offences, including: Fail to Comply with Release Order x2 and Possess Electronic Device Suitable for Auto Theft for the Purpose of Auto Theft.

They were held for bail hearings. Two suspects remain outstanding.

Suspect #1 is described as: male, wearing a black jacket, red hooded sweater, light-coloured flannel shirt, black pants and black shoes with light soles.

Suspect #2 is described as: male, wearing a black jacket, blue hooded sweater, blue track pants, white and black sneakers.

The investigation remains ongoing and anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact D/Cst. Nicholson of Project Attire – Auto Theft Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 7828

Project Attire is DRPS response to Ontario’s new Preventing Auto Thefts (PAT) Grant program, which is designed to support new and enhanced crime-fighting measures.

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

Fatal Pedestrian Collision

A female has died after being struck by a vehicle in Oshawa.

On Wednesday, February 5, 2025, at approximately 4:20 p.m., members from Central East Division were called Mary Street North, near Taunton Road for a pedestrian struck by a vehicle. The vehicle was travelling southbound on Mary Street North when it came to a stop. A female passenger exited the vehicle and was struck by the vehicle as it pulled away. The driver remained on scene. The female was transported to a local hospital where she was pronounced deceased.

Members of the DRPS – Collision Investigation Unit, attended the scene to conduct an investigation. The area of the roadway was closed for several hours while evidence was collected. This collision is still under investigation.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call Detective Constable Emily Vander Duim of the Traffic Services Branch at 905-579-1520 (toll-free 1-888-579-1520) ext. 5227.

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

79 Year Old Dead After Being Locked Out Of Assisted “Living” Facility

Additional charges have been laid in the death of a 79-year-old resident in the care of an assisted living facility in Oshawa.

On April 1, 2023, members from East Division were called to an assisted living facility in relation to a death at Aspira Traditions of Durham Retirement located at 1255 Bloor Street East. A 79-year-old female resident was located on a bench outside the facility. Paramedics attended and brought the female to the hospital where she was pronounced deceased.

An investigation revealed the vulnerable female entered a stairwell and exited the building at approximately 7:30 p.m. on March 31, 2023. Over the course of the night, the female attempted to gain access to the building but was unable because the doors were locked. She sat on a bench and was located the following morning without vital signs.

An autopsy was performed and the cause of death of the 79-year-old was as a result of exposure to the elements.

Two employees of Aspira Traditions were charged in December, 2024. Another employee, as well as the business have since been charged.

Jessica WHITE, age 32, of Whitby is charged with: Criminal Negligence Causing Death.

Aspira Traditions of Durham Retirement Living, located at 1255 Bloor Street East, Oshawa is charged with Criminal Negligence Causing Death.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact D/Cst. Peden of East Criminal Investigations Branch at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 1659.

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

Pervert Alert – 35 Year Old Arrested After Exposing Self – Name Released

A male has been arrested after committing an indecent act at Lakeview Park in Oshawa.

On Friday, January 31, 2025, at approximately 4:30 p.m., members of Central East Division responded to a sex offence call in the area of Lakeview Park Avenue and Simcoe Street South.  Passersby observed a male committing an indecent and exposing himself to vehicles as they drove by. Police arrived on scene and arrested the male without incident.

Police are concerned there may be other victims.

The suspect is described as male, White, 35 years with a slim build. He was wearing an orange and yellow construction jacket, a black hooded sweater and black pants. 

Corey Robert SZYDLOWSKI-INGRAM, age 35 from Oshawa is charged with: Commit Indecent Act in Public Place.

He was released on an Undertaking.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact D/Cst. Lisi of the Central East Division Criminal Investigations Branch at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 2769.

Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at 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

$1.4 Million Robbery – 2 Arrested

Two males are in custody after an investigation into a $1.4 million jewelry store robbery in Ajax.

On Monday, December 30, 2024, at approximately 1:10 p.m., members of West Division responded to a robbery at VP Jewellery, located on Harwood Avenue North. Two male suspects entered the store, tied up an employee and stole an estimated $1.4 million of gold, silver and jewelry. The suspects fled the area on foot prior to police arrival.

On Monday, January 20, 2025, after further investigation by the Robbery Unit, with the assistance of the Video Analysis Unit, and the Offender Management Unit (OMU), the first suspect was located in the Hamilton area.  The suspect was taken into custody without incident.

On Tuesday, January 21, 2025, members of the Robbery Unit, with the assistance of OMU, located the second suspect in North York, where he was taken into custody without incident.  Subsequently, members of the Robbery Unit conducted a warrant at the residence of the second suspect.

Andrew MCFARLAND, age 37 of No Fixed Address is charged with: Robbery, Forcible Confinement, Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000, Driving While Disqualified, Driving While Under Suspension, and Breach Probation x5.

Derek KOZAK, age 41 of Richmond Hill is charged with: Robbery, Disguise with Intent, Forcible Confinement, and Driving While Under Suspension.

Both were held for a bail hearing.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Robbery Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5355.

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

3 Year Old & Father Killed In Collision

A three-year-old female and her father have died after being struck by a vehicle in Pickering.

On Tuesday, January 21, 2025, at approximately 7:50 p.m., members from West Division were dispatched to the scene of a fail-to-remain collision at the intersection of Brock Road and Taunton Road in the City of Pickering.

A 39-year-old female from Pickering was operating her Nissan southbound through the intersection on a green light. A northbound Honda driven by a 40-year-old from Pickering turned left to go westbound on Taunton Road and struck the southbound Nissan.

The Honda continued westbound on Taunton Road for approximately 350 metres, where it left the roadway and struck a guardrail coming to a stop in the ditch.

The 40-year-old male exited his vehicle and removed his three-year-old daughter from the Honda. The male walked back up onto the roadway carrying his daughter and attempted to cross Taunton Road heading south where they were struck by a westbound BMW operated by a 52-year-old male from Ajax.

As a result of the collision, the 40-year-old male and his three-year-old daughter suffered serious life-threatening injuries. Durham EMS transported the male to a local area hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. His 3-year-old daughter was taken by Durham EMS directly to a hospital in Toronto. On arrival at the hospital, the female was treated for her injuries however she passed away a short time later.

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 several hours while evidence was collected. This collision is still under investigation.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to call DC Latour of the Collision Investigation Unit at 905-579-1520 (toll-free 1-888-579-1520) ext. 5226.

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

Armed Mugging By Gang Of 13 Year Olds

Three young males are facing charges after making threats with a knife to steal property from another youth at the Oshawa Centre.

On Sunday, January 19, 2025, at approximately 4:05 p.m., members of Central East Division responded to an armed person call at the Oshawa Centre, located at 419 King Street East.  Four young males approached a 16-year-old male and demanded his sweater and phone while making threats with a knife.  Officers searched the mall and located three of the suspects, who were taken into custody without incident.  One suspect remains outstanding.

The victim did not sustain any physical injuries.

A 13-year-old male from Whitby is charged with: Robbery.

A 13-year-old male from Whitby is charged with: Robbery.

A 13-year-old male from Whitby is charged with: Robbery.

The fourth suspect is described as: male, approximately 13-17 years-old.  He was wearing a black jacket with fur lined hood, black pants, and grey/white shoes.

The three suspects were released on an Undertaking.

Anyone with cell phone, dash cam, surveillance footage or information about this incident is asked to contact Det. Baumgartner of the Central East Division Criminal Investigations Branch at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 1705.

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.