 By Staff
November 15th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
On November 14th 2018 shortly after midnight, police responded to simultaneous alarms from Starbucks and Pita Pit located at 3051 Walkers Line (near Dundas St.) in Burlington.
 Upon arrival, officers observed the glass doors to both businesses smashed and confirmed break and enters had occurred and the suspects were no longer present. The investigation revealed that both entries were done at the same time by two separate suspects who targeted cash registers however both left empty handed.
At approximately 12:20 AM, an observant officer located a suspicious male near a closed restaurant in the area of Appleby Line and Dundas Street. The male was arrested and found to be in possession of keys to a GMC Savanna van which was quickly located unoccupied behind another plaza in the area of Appleby Line and Taywood Dr.
After further investigation, it was determined that the van had been recently stolen from a U-Haul business in Brampton and that the man arrested was the same man that broke into Starbucks.
Christopher Michael HANN (35-Yrs) of Brampton was held for bail charged with break & enter, possession of break-in instruments, theft of motor vehicle, possession of property obtained by crime over $5000 and two counts of breaching probation.
The suspect that broke into Pita Pit was not located however he is believed to be involved in a subsequent break and enter. At approximately 12:37 AM, police received a call from a witness who observed a silver or light blue SUV smash into the rear glass doors of Mindy Nail Salon located at 414 Plains Rd. E in Burlington.
Two men were observed entering the business and stole $270 worth of equipment including nail dryers, fingernail fan and files before fleeing the scene in the vehicle.
Suspect #1 (also believed to be involved in the Pita Pit entry) is described as a white male, approximately 6′ tall, medium build, wearing a light coloured zipped hoodie, black pants, white shoes and thin gloves.
Suspect #2 is described as a white male, approximately 6′ tall, medium build, wearing an orange construction safety style shirt with florescent yellow X pattern on the front and back, black pants, dark shoes, toque and thin gloves.
Anyone with information is asked to contact D/Cst. Dave Griffiths of the Burlington Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4747 Ext. 2350.
Tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers “See Something? Hear Something? Know Something? Contact Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca .
 By Staff
November 14th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
In the blink of an eye, any impaired driver can ruin lives forever. Horrific and heartbreaking headlines of impaired driving aftermath never seem to end, and it affects us all. Worst of all, it is completely preventable. Crime Stoppers can help.
With the recent legalization of cannabis in Canada, the potential for drug impairment on our roads, trails, and waterways may increase – driving high is no different from driving drunk or driving under the influence of other drugs. Impaired is impaired.
 According to Halton Police, there have been 500 impaired driving arrests in Halton Region so far this year. That number will, unfortunately, only increase as we head into the busy holiday season.
If you suspect an impaired driver on the road, please call 9-1-1 to report it directly and immediately to police.
So how can Crime Stoppers help? If you know of, or suspect, an habitual impaired driver (whether alcohol, cannabis, or other drugs) and wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers. So far this year, impaired driving tips to Halton Crime Stoppers have resulted in license suspensions, criminal charges, vehicle impoundments, and several other Highway Traffic Act offences. Those tips directly helped improve the safety of our roads and communities, and they may have prevented the next horrific and heartbreaking headline.
David Wood, director of Halton Crime Stoppers, said this is just one opportunity for the community and Crime Stoppers to drive community safety in Halton.
“Our mission is to reduce crime in Halton Region through community education and engagement in partnership with the public, the police, and the media and by providing citizens the ability to provide information with guaranteed anonymity to deter and solve crime, with rewards offered for tips that lead to an arrest,” Wood said.
“We appreciate the impaired driving tips we receive from the public and are proud that these tips can and do directly translate into effective action by Halton Police to get impaired drivers off our roads”.
Wood said Crime Stoppers is a citizen-run charitable organization that has helped police maintain Halton as one of the safest regions in Canada. “Our board routinely authorizes reward payments for anonymous tips that solve or deter crime,” Wood added. “We want the public to know that Crime Stoppers operates 24 hours a day, 365 days per year, so people in the community can anonymously provide information that police may need to solve and deter crime. Callers are never asked to identify themselves and never have to testify in court because their anonymity is guaranteed.”
Wood said Crime Stoppers is only successful because people make the effort to call the tip line to provide information that can help solve crime and keep our keep our communities safe.
 Detective Constable Jodi Richmond, Coordinator, Crime Stoppers of Halton Tips can be submitted Halton Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or by visiting www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca.
For more information, please contact:
Contact: Detective Constable Jodi Richmond
Coordinator
Crime Stoppers of Halton
By Staff
November 14th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police along with other area police services were experiencing a rash of roof-top commercial break and enters into various retail businesses.
Since October 4th 2018, there have been 13 reported entries or attempted entries between Halton, Peel, York, Waterloo and Hamilton.
Investigators from the involved police services have been working closely and sharing information which ultimately led to the identification of three persons responsible for many of these entries.
On November 12th 2018, Halton Regional Police investigators arrested three men and executed three search warrants on homes and a rental car that resulted in the seizure of stolen property, break and enter tools and a large quantity of cash.
The investigation is ongoing to determine if others persons are involved and/or if additional charges are to be laid.
Armend HYSENI (25-yrs) of Hamilton and Flamur HAZIRI (30-yrs) of Kitchener are both charged with six counts of break and enter while Milaim BRANTON (34-yrs) of Hamilton is charged with six counts of break and enter and one count of possession of break-in instruments.
All three men were released on a Promise to Appear with an Undertaking and will appear in Milton Court on December 12th 2018.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Clay Gillis the Burlington Criminal Investigations Bureau – Commercial Crime Team at 905-825-4747 Ext. 2307.
Tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers “See Something? Hear Something? Know Something? Contact Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca .
By Staff
November 12th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) has a new tool to help identify suspects of retail thefts occurring in the Region. The HRPS is the first service in Ontario to leverage a website dubbed ‘Retail C.O.P.’ (Cameras on Patrol).
Images of suspects in retail thefts are uploaded to the secure site, along with brief suspect descriptions.
 Retail security cameras capture the data – police can analyze and frequently identify suspects. These images are typically gathered from retail store surveillance cameras. Loss prevention officers are then provided access to the website in hopes of helping to identify suspects. Any tips are sent to the HRPS Retail Theft Unit for investigation.
To date, the HRPS has invited and trained more than one hundred loss prevention officers from across Ontario to take part in the program.
This program provides retailers, security, loss prevention and law enforcement agencies opportunities to identify offenders and through education, reduce and prevent organized retail crime, and prosecute identified offenders.
How is it working so far? “Fantastic” said Inspector Bob Gourley, 3 District Operations. “. By tapping into the knowledge and experience of the loss prevention officers on the ground in stores across Halton we are taking advantage of a previously underutilized resource.”
 Security cameras capture some of the thefts – the information is shared with retail security people who can aid the police in arrests. Retail theft costs Canadians $4 billion every year, with costs being passed on to consumers. This year to date, there have been more than one thousand occurrences of retail theft reported to police in Halton.
By Staff
November 3rd, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police Service Set to Launch 2018 Crime Prevention Week – Help Us Help You
The Halton Regional Police Service will be kicking off Ontario’s annual Crime Prevention Week, which runs between November 4 and 10, 2018. The week-long promotion of crime prevention is supported by the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police (OACP), the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services, and all police services across Ontario.
 Halton Regional Police Senior Command cutting a celebratory cake during the opening of the new police HQ. From the left are: Roger Wilkie and Deputy Chief of District Operations Nishan Duraiappah, Deputy Chief Regional operations and Chief Stephen Tanner. Police Chief Stephen Tanner said: “We know from experience that crime prevention works. When police partner with community agencies and engage with their residents to stop crime in its tracks, everyone wins.
“We are proud that Halton Region has maintained the lowest crime severity index in Canada for 13 straight years. But the bolstering of community safety and well-being takes hard work and collaboration.
“That’s why the Halton Regional Police Service is proud to partner with government, community leaders, young people, and businesses to prevent crime throughout our community.”
By Staff
November 2nd, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police Service provides Police Record Checks to all residents of the Region of Halton, for volunteer or employment purposes. This service is most efficiently obtained ONLINE or you may attend one of our five police facilities.
On November 1, 2018, the Police Record Checks Reform Act will come into force, ensuring a clear, consistent and comprehensive set of standards to govern how police record checks are conducted and disclosed in Ontario.
The Halton Regional Police Service offers three types of Police Record Checks for the members of the public who reside in the Halton Region. If you are unsure as to which Record Check you need to complete, please see our website.
• Criminal Record Check – Learn more or apply online now.
• Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check – Learn more or apply online now.
• Vulnerable Sector Check – Learn more or apply online now.
The Impact on Youth Record Checks
These standards also include how police services release Police Record Checks containing youth records to applicants. Up until now, police services have released a Police Record Check containing youth records directly to the applicant who then provides the Police Record Check to the organization or volunteer agency. The federal and provincial government has found this approach to be contrary to the Federal Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA).
 As of November 1, 2018, youth can only apply for a Police Record Check if:
A. The youth is applying for purposes of employment or volunteering directly with:
• the Government of Canada;
• the Government of a province; or
• a Municipality;
OR
B. The youth requires their own youth records for their own personal information (Privacy Request).
The Halton Regional Police Service will only provide Police Record Checks to applicants under the age of 18 for government positions.
What does this mean for Non-Government Agencies and Youth Seeking to work or volunteer at these organizations?
Effective November 1, 2018, non-government agencies are not authorized to receive any youth Police Record Check results. Similarly, youth are no longer required to undertake a Police Record Check for volunteer or paid employment with these agencies. To require applicants to apply and pay for a Police Record Check when no results will be released is not in the best interest of the applicants, the police service or the community.
Non-government agencies will now have to proceed with alternative application steps, such as interviews and references for youths, and not rely on, either in part or solely, a Police Record Check, as they may have in the past.
For more information about Police Record Checks, please visit our website:
You are also invited to contact our office directly with your inquiries:
Information and Records Services
2485 North Service Road West
Oakville, ON L6M 0Y3
P: 905-825-4777 ext. 4712
By Staff
October 31st, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
On October 25th 2018 members of the Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Unit concluded their investigation with the identification of the male party responsible for committing the sexual assault.
Donald Williams, 75 years of age and lived in Burlington, was arrested and charged with one count of sexual assault. He was released from custody with a November court date.
It should be noted that the accused is employed by Burlington Taxi, and met the victim while driving for the company.
If you have additional information regarding this incident, you are asked to contact the Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Unit; Detective Sergeant Chris Newcombe at 905-465-8965 or Detective Constable Mark Werner at 905-465-8947.
Tips can also be submitted 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
In an earlier media release the Halton Regional Police Service reported they were investigating a sexual assault that occurred on Claridge Road, in the City of Burlington. On July 27th 2018 at approximately 7:00 PM, the male suspect attended the adult female victim’s apartment complex and made contact with her. The two parties had spoken on one occasion prior to the incident, so the male was invited into the victim’s residence, at which point she was sexually assaulted.
The male initially introduced himself as “Bernie”, and then stated that his name was actually “Martin”. He stated that that he lived in the area.
The police were successful in finding the suspect and charges were laid.
By Staff
October 26th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
Car thefts and catching the criminals has kept the Burlington detachment of the Regional Police busy.
On October 19th 2018, at approximately 12:30 AM, a uniformed patrol officer located a Mazda CX-5 reported stolen out of Peel Region was located in the rear parking lot of the Motel 6 at 4345 North Service Road in Burlington.
Officers identified a room linked to the stolen vehicle and upon approaching the room, a man and women fled on foot. The woman was quickly arrested exiting the motel while the male was arrested as he was trying to enter a Ford pick-up truck that was driving though the front lot.
The pickup truck sped away but was quickly stopped by an officer whose vehicle was positioned in a manner that blocked the truck from exiting the lot. A female driver and two male passengers were arrested.
A subsequent search of the involved vehicles, room and arrested persons resulted in the seizure of a small quantity of crystal meth, stolen property (dealer licence plate, gift cards, credit/debit cards & car keys) and break-in tools (window punch, bolt cutters, walkie-talkies & headlamps).
The subsequent investigation determined the five persons arrested were responsible for breaking into cars throughout Halton and Peel Regions.
Arrested and charged are:
Fernando MUCCI (20-yrs) of No Fixed Address (formerly of Brampton) was held for bail and remanded into custody. He will appear next by video on November 5th 2018 charged with:
• Theft of vehicle
• Theft under $5000 (15 counts)
• Use stolen credit card (7 counts)
• Possession of property obtained by crime under $5000
• Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000 (5 counts)
• Fraud under $5000
• Possession of a controlled substance (crystal meth)
• Fail to comply with probation (6 counts)
Catherine EDWARDS (20-yrs) of No Fixed Address (formerly of Mississauga) was released on a recognizance of bail to appear in Milton court next on November 14th 2018 charged with:
• Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000
• Possession of a controlled substance (crystal meth)
• Assault peace officer
• Fail to comply with undertaking
Tyrone MORGAN (31-yrs) of Mississauga was held for bail and subsequently released on an undertaking to appear in Milton Court on November 14th 2018 charged with:
• Obstruct peace officer
• Possession of property obtained by crime under $5000
• Possession of break in instruments
• Fail to comply with undertaking
Essam HAJJAR (38-yrs) of Oakville was held for bail and subsequently released on an undertaking to appear in Milton Court on November 14th 2018 charged with:
• Possession of property obtained by crime under $5000
• Possession of break in instruments
• Fail to comply with undertaking
Michelle Nadine GARCIA (27-yrs) of Toronto was held for bail and subsequently released on a recognizance of bail to appear in Milton Court on November 14th 2018 charged with:
• Possession of property obtained by crime under $5000
• Possession of break in instruments
On October 24th 2018, at approximately 12:10 AM, a uniformed patrol officer located a stolen Infiniti G37X from Peel Region in the parking lot of the Knights Inn at 517 Plains Rd. E in Burlington.
Officers identified a room linked to the stolen vehicle that resulted in three persons subsequently being arrested. A search of the stolen vehicle resulted in the seizure of property believed to have been stolen from residential break and enters and theft from autos in Halton and Peel Regions. Items recovered are car keys, identification, cell phones, I-pods, change, medication and jewelry.
Arrested and charged are:
Catherine EDWARDS (20-yrs) of Mississauga was held for bail charged with:
• Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000
Jonathan BASTA (30-yrs) of Mississauga was released on a recognizance of bail to appear in Milton Court on November 21st 2018 charged with:
• Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000
Stephanie MONIZ (24-yrs) of Hamilton was released on a recognizance of bail to appear in Milton Court on November 21st 2018 charged with:
• Possession of property obtained by crime under $5000
Police are still investigating the seized property and additional charges are expected.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Burlington Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4747 Ext. 2316.
By Staff
October 22, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
 They get to you by email – your only protection is to be super vigilant. RE: BMO Account Report
This sounded pretty official:
On October 22, 2018 we received a letter from FCIB, MBA.
We included in this email copies of the quarterly statements issued for the period June 21, 2018 to September 2018. The document describes notes placed in a locked pension protected by the Canada Pension Standart Act 1985, for more information please check documents included in this email.
Sincerely, Tim Trenblay
Note: FCIA – is a designation -Fellow of the Canadian Institute of Actuaries; MBA usually stands for Master of Business Administration.
The spelling error was an early clue. The attached file was an Excel file, why would a bank send me one of those?
The address the email came from was the biggest clue: BMO Financial Group noreply@bmodoc.com
Follow the rule: If in doubt – don’t.
By Staff
October 22, 2013
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police Three District Criminal Investigation Bureau have arrested and charged two Personal Support workers for committing various financial offences against an elderly 82 year old victim from Burlington.
Between April 4th and July 25th 2018, the two arrested persons used stolen cheques and credit cards belonging to the victim to amount of $6048.53.
Both persons arrested worked as Personal Support workers for the victim at separate times. There is no further risk to the public.
Melissa Watson (28 yrs) of Acton was released on a promise to appear in Milton Court on November 14th 2018 charged with the following offences:
• Fraud Under $5000,
• Uttering a forged document
• Possession of Property Obtained by crime
Sarah Taylor Mackenzie (25 yrs) of Burlington was released on a promise to appear in Milton Court on November 14th 2018 charged with the following offences:
• Fraud Over $5000
• Uttering a forged document
• Possession of property obtained by crime
• Unauthorized use of stolen credit card (two counts)
Halton Residents who have Personal Support Workers working in their homes should be aware of their Personal Support Worker’s identity, and have a detailed schedule from the agency providing care. Most Agencies and Personal Support Workers providing support in the home, unless specifically contracted to do so, are mandated to not complete any financial transactions, purchase items, or use the financial cards or cheques belonging to the patient or client receiving care.
Payments for services go directly to the company, who in turn pays the employee. If you have Personal Support Workers into your home, all valuables and financial items should be properly secured.
Persons who are Power of Attorney for their family members should complete regular audits of the family member’s finances and be aware of large, uncommon withdrawals from their accounts.
Halton Police contact: Detective Constable Derek Gray of the Burlington Criminal Investigations Bureau – Seniors Liaison Team at 905-825-4747 ext. 2344.
Tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers “See something, Hear something, Say something” at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca, or by texting “Tip201” with your message to 274637 (crimes).
Anyone charged with a criminal offence is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
By Staff
October 18th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
The cheek!
Scammers from somewhere out there try to lure me into their operation and add a note that if I don’t respond – they are going to ding me $20.
We are aware of people that have been pulled into scams like this. It is a very painful experience and usually takes months to get your on line business operations back up and running the way you need them.
Be vigilant. At some point the banks will find a way to prevent this kind of thing – getting the technology to work for us would be nice.
By Staff
October 19th, 2018
BURLINGTON. ON
Crime Stoppers not only pays people who help solve crime, but the program gives residents an anonymous way to identify offenders and make our communities safer.
Recently, the effectiveness of Crime Stoppers in Halton was evidenced after tipsters provided crucial details that helped Halton Regional Police Child Abuse and Sexual Assault investigators identify and arrest an individual accused of sexual assault.
Halton Regional Police issued a public appeal for information after a brazen daylight sexual assault on a residential street in Burlington. That appeal resulted in anonymous tip submissions to Halton Crime Stoppers, which ultimately led to the swift identification and arrest of the suspect.
 Jan Westcott, chair of Halton Crime Stoppers Jan Westcott, chair of Halton Crime Stoppers, said this is just one of numerous occasions through the years where residents have called the anonymous tip line to help police solve crime.
“We very much appreciate those individuals who provide information that allows investigators to identify perpetrators or locate people who have committed crimes in our communities,” Westcott said.
“Crime Stoppers of Halton has operated a tip line in the region since 1988 when various Chamber of Commerce groups and residents in the region requested a method for people to provide police with information anonymously that could allow them to solve crime,” he said. “At the time there were a number of Crime Stoppers programs operating successfully in neighbouring communities and other cities across Ontario.”
Westcott said through the cooperation of citizens calling the tip line almost 2,200 cases have been solved since the program began and more than 1,000 individuals arrested. Tips to Crime Stoppers have also been responsible for the seizure of more than $18 million in illegal drugs and the recovery of almost $3 million of stolen property.
“People definitely make a difference when they call Crime Stoppers to provide valuable information to police to help them solve crime,” he said. “Tips like the one which helped quickly identify this sexual assault suspect demonstrate how Crime Stoppers not only assists with arrests, but shows how anonymous callers can prevent further crimes from being committed in the community and consequently making our streets safer for everyone.”
Westcott said Crime Stoppers is a citizen-run charitable organization and has helped police maintain Halton as one of the safest regions in Canada.
 Jan Westcott “Our board routinely authorizes payments for anonymous tips that solve various crimes,” Westcott added. “We want the public to know that Crime Stoppers operates year round, 24 hours a day, so people in the community can anonymously provide information that police may need to solve any crime. Callers are never asked to give their names and do not have to testify in court since their anonymity is guaranteed.”
Westcott said Crime Stoppers is only successful because people are calling the tip line and providing information that will help solve crime and keep our keep our communities safe.
Related news story:
Teacher arrested.
By Staff
October 18th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
As a result of an investigation conducted by the Halton Regional Police Service – Internet Child Exploitation Unit, Christopher ROLLO (52 years) of Burlington was arrested on October 17th, 2018 and charged with:
Luring a Child Via a Computer (2 counts) ,
Possession of Child Pornography and Personation with Intent.
The victims in this matter were between 12-15 years of age.
Rollo is currently employed by the Halton District School Board as an elementary school teacher at Joshua Creek PS in Oakville, and had previously been a hockey coach with the Burlington Girls Hockey Club (2010-2015), Burlington City Rep Hockey Club (2005-2006) and the Flamborough Girls Hockey Club (2016-2017).
Investigators have determined that the accused was communicating with the victim’s online via Facebook, Instagram and Omegle, using the name: Cody Clarke and @clarkie1833
The accused was held pending a bail hearing.
Anyone who may have any additional information pertaining to this investigation is asked to contact D/Sgt Chris Newcombe 905-465-8965 or Det. Todd Martin 905-465-8983 of the Halton Regional Police Service Internet Child Exploitation Unit (I.C.E.).
These investigations have been funded and made possible through a grant from the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services.
Tips can also be submitted 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
Anyone charged with a criminal offence is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law
By Pepper Parr
October 18th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
It isn’t supposed to be like this.
 Ken White Ken White, a candidate for the ward 6 city council seat, was out picking up a take out meal at the Indian Palace. He parked his cat in the layby near Thomas Alton and Tim Dobbie.
Walked into the Indian Place for the takeout and returned to find his car had been vandalized. Thee damage wasn’t serious. He will be able to wipe it off with a light solvent.
 The vandalized car – belonged to Ken White, a ward 6 candidate. Why is this kind of thing happening now in Burlington?
Has the city lost that sheen of civility we need to get along with each other?
White said on his Facebook page: If you support me thank-you but please do not call Candidates names, generally disparage them or graffiti someone’s property.
Normally I’d think it was kids but sickeningly I’m certain it’s an adult.
I’m leaving this on my car as a reminder to canvass even harder so the Weirdo’s we live among have absolutely no impact on this election.
By Staff
October 17th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
If you saw this email – you would be stunned.
And if you do a lot of your bill paying and invoice processing on line – you would be heading to the on-line bank account to see what this is about.
If you are a small business you know what your payables are – and you wouldn’t recognize this one. You might be tempted to click on that View the invoice – and at that point they’ve gotcha.
Which is the point behind the email.
You have to be careful – pay attention.
Here is what the email said:
Thanks! Your payment has been processed.
$459.15 CAD
Best Network Recruitment
Invoice # 16236125
Your charges: September 2018 Advertising on Indeed.com
$459.15 CAD
You may also wish to
View billing history
Update payment method
This email was loaded with trouble.
By Staff
October 15th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
As of October 17, 2018, the legislation that governs the possession, consumption, sale and cultivation of cannabis will be substantially changing.
The Halton Regional Police Service has collaborated closely with our Municipal and Regional partners to ensure a consistent service delivery response for members of the public, in all areas of the Region, once cannabis becomes legalized.
We recognize that after October 17, there will be a period of transition and social adjustment that will require flexibility and consideration as the community, the Service and the Courts react to the new laws.
Enforcement Role of the Halton Regional Police Service
The Halton Regional Police Service remains committed to the safety and well-being of our community.
In this regard, the Service will continue to respond to and investigate complaints involving:
• The alleged illegal sale and distribution of cannabis, particularly occurrences involving the sale of cannabis to youth;
• Incidents of drug-impaired driving;
• Youth (under the age of 19) who are possibly possessing or consuming cannabis, regardless of the location; and
• Cannabis consumption in a motor vehicle or on a vessel (boat).
The Halton Regional Police Service will not be responding to incidents where the sole complaint is that of nuisance cannabis smoke or cannabis consumption not involving youth or a motor vehicle/boat.
The Halton Region Health Department will be responsible for enforcing requirements of the amended Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017, which is expected to come into force on October 17, 2018. The Act would prohibit the smoking of cannabis in the same places where the smoking of tobacco is prohibited. These places include enclosed workplaces, enclosed public places and other specified places such as school property, recreational facilities, sports fields, children’s playgrounds, hospital grounds and restaurant patios.
Halton residents who wish to report complaints about cannabis use in prohibited places that don’t involve youth or a motor vehicle are directed to contact the Halton Region Health Department at 311.
Where Can Residents Access Additional Information
If you wish to learn more about the new legislation, please refer to our Cannabis Resources on our website. We have included information about the consumption, sale, possession and cultivation of cannabis, as well as the detection and enforcement of drug-impaired driving. For your convenience, there is also a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page where you can find answers to common questions.
How Can Residents Navigate Cannabis-Related Conflict
We understand that the legalization of cannabis may cause conflict in the community.
It is important that our residents know that once legislation is in place, there is no lawful authority for our officers to respond to complaints regarding nuisance cannabis smoke. If you are concerned about nuisance cannabis smoke (for example your neighbor is smoking cannabis on their deck and you can smell it in your backyard), we would encourage you to engage in a respectful conversation with the person or ask for the assistance of a third party (another neighbor).
We ask that members of the community remain patient and respectful, particularly in the period of transition after cannabis is legalized.
Commitment to Consistency
We anticipate that members of our community will be reaching out with questions and complaints regarding cannabis once it is legalized. We have provided enhanced training to our call takers and dispatchers in our Communications Bureau, and have collaborated diligently with our Municipal and Regional partners to ensure that you get consistent responses, regardless of where you direct your inquiry.
 We are going to have to get used to the stuff. Legislative Summary
Two new pieces of legislation come into effect on October 17, 2018.
The Federal Cannabis Act — this piece of legislation decriminalizes the possession and cultivation of cannabis for personal use in Canada. The Act has defined legal possession levels for the various forms that cannabis can take (i.e. seeds, dried cannabis, fresh plants). However, the Act also creates a series of criminal offences for unlawful possession, trafficking, and cultivation.
The Cannabis Control Act, 2017 — this new legislation will govern where and how individuals can purchase, transport and consume cannabis in the Province of Ontario. This new act is very similar in terms of wordings and authorities to the Liquor Licence Act. The new act defines the legal age for possession of cannabis (in Ontario) as 19 years of age or older. The Act also includes some offences relating to sale and distribution of cannabis. Those who commit offences under this act will receive Provincial Offence Notices with a set fine, or be summonsed to appear in court if the charge is more serious.
In addition, the amended Smoke-Free Ontario Act, 2017 is expected to come into effect on October 17, 2018. This legislation would prohibit the smoking of cannabis in the same places where the smoking of tobacco is prohibited.
Please direct any inquiries to Inspector Kevin Maher at kevin.maher@haltonpolice.ca.
By Staff
September 25th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
We expect a 15 year old girl and a 17 year old boy to be in school completing an education.
Two young people who cannot be identified because of their age were arrested yesterday when police apprehended them driving an SUV that had been stolen in Guelph earlier and was noticed by Headon Forest residents who noticed it driving erratically with a flat tire.
Just before 9:00 am yesterday Halton police arrest two youths in the stolen vehicle.
Citizen observed several youths driving this vehicle with one flat tire.
Police quickly located the Nissan SUV in the area. As police investigated the stopped vehicle, the male driver accelerated away as an officer approached the vehicle causing the officer to jump to the side. The officer did not suffer any injuries. Police attempted to pull over the Nissan SUV which led police on a low speed pursuit over a very short distance while driving on flat tire. Police quickly arrested two youths after the Nissan SUV stopped after hitting a curb.
A 17-year-old male young person from the City of Hamilton who cannot be identified due to his age was held for a bail hearing and will appear next in Milton Youth Court on September 25th 2018, and will be charged with the following:
• Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000
• Dangerous operation of a motor vehicle
• Flight while pursued by peace officer
• Failure to comply with probation order (four counts).
A 15-year-old female young person from the City of Hamilton who cannot be identified due to her age was held for a bail hearing and will appear next in Milton Youth Court on September 25th 2018, and will be charged with the following:
• Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000
• Failure to comply with recognizance (two counts).
The prognosis for these two is not very promising.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Detective Constable Mark Urie of the Burlington Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4747 Ext. 2338.
ips can also be submitted 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 24th, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police Service has received a number of inquiries about the condition of the two officers who were involved in the early morning incident in Burlington on Saturday, September 22, 2018.
 Police mobile command vehicle on site at the shootout. One of the two injured officers has been released from hospital, and we anticipate the second officer being released from hospital in the coming days.
 Chief thanks community for their support. “The outpouring of support and concern for all of the men and women who serve the community of Halton has been overwhelming. Please know that we hear you, and we can’t thank you enough,” said Chief Stephen Tanner.
By Staff
September 23rd, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
The Halton Regional Police Service release reports on criminal activity on a regular basis.
In their September 23rd report on Impaired Driving Offenses Within Halton Region they focused on arrests they made based on information given to them by the public who called the police when they saw driving behaviour they thought was suspicious.
The three drivers reported here could have continued driving while under the influence and go on to do serious damage and perhaps even end the life of anyone they struck with their vehicle.
 911 calls go directly to the Communications Centre where the civilian operators can be in touch instanly with police cruisers in the area the incident is reported from. If they are given license plate number of the vehicle the officer in the cruiser will know in seconds everything they need to know about the driver and what kind of action they need to take to apprehend that driver. On September 17, 2018 just before 12:00 am, Halton Police officers responded to a citizen-initiated complaint near the intersection of Main Street South and Maple Avenue in Georgetown. As a result of an investigation, Philip CHYLINSKI (24) of Georgetown was charged with care or control over 80 mgs.
On September 20, 2018 just before 10:30 am, Halton Police officers responded to citizen-initiated complaint near the intersection of Main Street East and Court Street in Milton. As a result of an investigation, Joseph WEADGE (68) of Milton was charged with care or control over 80 mgs.
On September 20, 2018 shortly after 10:30 pm, Halton Police officers responded to a citizen-initiated complaint near the intersection of Upper Middle Road and Sutton Drive in Burlington. As a result of an investigation, Amy SMITH (36) of Burlington was charged with driving over 80 mgs.
The Halton Regional Police Service remains committed to road safety through prevention, education and enforcement initiatives.
Members of the public are reminded that driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol is a crime in progress and to call 9-1-1 immediately to report a suspected impaired driver.
The Service’s Twitter and Facebook accounts should not be used for this purpose as they are not monitored 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
People charged with an offence are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
By Staff
September 22, 2018
BURLINGTON, ON
At approximately 5:00 a.m. on Saturday, September 22, 2018, the Halton Regional Police Service responded to an incident at a gas station located at 875 Appleby Line in Burlington.
Two Halton Police officers were injured during this incident and have been transported to hospital where they are receiving treatment for non-life-threatening gunshot wounds.
There is no ongoing related risk to public safety.
The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) is on scene and has invoked its mandate.
 Police mobile command vehicle and Special Investigations Unit vehicle at the site of a shoot out early Saturday morning. A Burlington resident who reports frequently for the Gazette reports that after a minor accident on the QEW the driver of a vehicle entered the Esso station at Appleby and Harvester and locked himself in the washroom.
The Esso attendant called police. Police arrived – police noticed the damaged car. Gun fire followed the suspect was killed.
Body was removed later on.
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