New Year's Eve Celebration, Nathan Phillips Square, Road closures

New Year's Eve Celebration, Nathan Phillips Square, Road closures

Friday, December 28, 2018 - 10:00 AM
Emergency Management & Public Order:  416-808-5046

On Monday, December 31, 2018, the City of Toronto will be hosting a New Year’s Eve celebration at Nathan Philips Square. The events start with a skating party at 8 p.m. until 10 p.m. Live performances are from 8 p.m. to midnight. The event will conclude with a pyrotechnic show from the towers at City Hall.

Road closures will be in effect from Monday, December 31, 2018 at 5 p.m. to Tuesday, January 1, 2019, at 2 a.m.

- Elizabeth Street closed between Foster Place to Hagerman Street
- Hagerman Street closed between Elizabeth Street to Bay Street
- Albert Street closed between James Street to Bay Street
- James Street closed between Queen Street West to Albert Street
- Bay Street closed between Dundas Street West to Richmond Street West
- Queen Street closed between Yonge Street to University Avenue
- York Street closed at Queen Street West

501 Queen Street streetcar and the 6 Bay Street bus will be diverted from the area.

Motorists are advised to avoid the area and consider alternate routes.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Katrina Arrogante, Corporate Communications, for Constable Susan Guadagnano, Emergencey Management and Public Order

Holiday On-Street Parking Enforcement

Holiday On-Street Parking Enforcement

Thursday, December 20, 2018 - 11:00 AM
Parking Enforcement:  416-808-6600

The Toronto Police Service Parking Enforcement Unit will not be enforcing the following on-street parking bylaws during the upcoming holidays.

Dates:

- Christmas Day on Tuesday, December 25, 2018
- Boxing Day on Wednesday, December 26, 2018
- New Year’s Day on Tuesday, January 1, 2018

Locations:

• Pay-and-Display/Metered Areas
• Rush-Hour Routes
• Posted signs indicating Monday to Fridayregulations

All other areas and parking offences will continue to be enforced.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable David Hopkinson, Corporate Communications, for Supervisor Brian Moniz, Parking Enforcement

There are no files attached to this release. 

Man wanted in Fraud investigations, Andrew Hainsworth, 40, Photograph released

Man wanted in Fraud investigations, Andrew Hainsworth, 40, Photograph released

Monday, December 10, 2018 - 11:25 AM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

The Toronto Police Service requests the public's assistance locating a man wanted in a number of ongoing Fraud investigations.

It is alleged that:

- the man has been using his employment position with a process server company to defraud a number of people

- he accepted money for services not rendered

Police are concerned there may be more victims.

Andrew Hainsworth, 40, of Toronto, is wanted for:

1. Four counts of Fraud Under
2. Contempt of Court

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-5100, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, online on our Facebook Leave a Tip page, or text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637). Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Katrina Arrogante, Corporate Communications, for Constable Sean Imrie, 51 Division

man wanted in ongoing Fraud investigations, Andrew Hainsworth, 40, of Toronto

Joint Statement from the Toronto Police Services Board and the Toronto Police Service Regarding the Ontario Human Rights Commission’s Interim Report into the Inquiry Concerning Racial Discrimination and Racial Profiling of Black Persons by the Toronto Police Service

Joint Statement from the Toronto Police Services Board and the Toronto Police Service Regarding the Ontario Human Rights Commission’s Interim Report into the Inquiry Concerning Racial Discrimination and Racial Profiling of Black Persons by the Toronto Police Service

Monday, December 10, 2018 - 10:30 AM
Corporate Communications:  416-808-7100

The Toronto Police Services Board (the Board) and Toronto Police Service (the Service) have each had an opportunity to review the Ontario Human Rights Commission’s Interim Report. We understand that the report’s preliminary findings, as well as its recommendations, require a thoughtful and comprehensive response from us that builds on the hard work we have been doing already to confront issues of systemic bias.

Members of the Toronto Police Service are dedicated, professional and fair. They take pride in their role as officers of the law. They take pride in their service to our city. As Board Chair and Chief, we are equally proud of the courage and commitment shown by the women and men in uniform who work tirelessly to keep our city the best and safest place to be. We also recognize that the job of the police is a hard one.

We recognize that there are those within Toronto’s Black communities who feel that, because of the colour of their skin, the police, including when it comes to use of force, have at times, treated them differently. We understand that this has created a sense of distrust that has lasted generations. We – the Board and the Service – know that only by acknowledging these lived experiences can we continue to work with our community partners to achieve meaningful changes.

The Board and the Service acknowledge that no institution or organization, including the Toronto Police, is immune from overt and implicit bias. We have seen examples of other organizations, which are, by their nature, composed of people, dealing with the same challenges that we face. Nevertheless, we acknowledge that a unique obligation is required from those of us who are charged with upholding the law and protecting all of our city’s people. And, while we may be confronting these challenges with resolve today, we are committed to doing even better.

Some may raise questions about the approach, methodology and statistical basis of this report, and it is important that all of these issues be scrutinized to ensure the fullest and fairest analysis and accounting. In the meantime, this interim report offers five recommendations, three of which apply to the Board and the Service. We accept these recommendations, recognizing that one of them will require further study. Specifically, the Board will refer its existing Policy concerning data collection to its Anti-Racism Advisory Panel (ARAP) – comprised of Board members, community members, experts and Service members – and ask for recommendations to improve the Policy. This work will consider the legitimate concerns surrounding the impact of race-based data collection on interactions between police and members of Toronto’s communities, and look to collect this data in a manner that will strengthen our connection to the communities we serve.

It should also be noted that we did not suddenly arrive upon these issues. We have been working for several years to confront these challenges in a variety of ways and with a variety of partners. Indeed, our continued work will be shaped and informed by a wide number of steps already undertaken and underway.

Finally, we hope that this Interim Report is seen in its broader context, causing bigger questions to be asked and real solutions to be identified. Questions about poverty, social exclusion, inequality in our neighbourhoods and the root causes of crime and violence. Because once the police are involved, it is often after all other systems have failed. This is not to say that this explains even a perceived disproportionate use of force by police; but it does highlight the reality that once the police have been called, the incident is often one of crisis.

Our police service has a specific responsibility that we accept. We will continue to be open to exploring the overall approach to police use of force, as well as critically examining the specific cases where it has been employed. However, in order to find meaningful and lasting remedies, other institutions, organizations and levels of government will need to take this most important mandate on with us. We are ready, willing and actively doing the hard work that is required of us.

There is a fundamental principle that must always guide our thinking and our actions: bias is impossible to deny, but it must never be accepted as inevitable. The Board and the Service believe in that principle and it will guide us as we continue to build a city of mutual respect and trust that is safe for all.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Meaghan Gray, Corporate Communications

Homicide #92/2018, George Street and Gerrard Street East, Jeffrey Parker, 35, Man arrested, Tyler Reynolds, 22, Charged with Second-Degree Murder

Homicide #92/2018, George Street and Gerrard Street East, Jeffrey Parker, 35, Man arrested, Tyler Reynolds, 22, Charged with Second-Degree Murder

Friday, December 7, 2018 - 6:24 PM
Homicide:  416-808-7400

On Thursday, December 6, 2018, at 4:41 p.m., police responded to a call for a Stabbing in the area of George Street and Gerrard Street East.

Once on scene, officers located a man suffering from serious trauma. He was rushed to hospital, but later succumbed to his injuries.

The victim has been identified as Jeffrey Parker, 35, of Toronto.

Tyler Reynolds, 22, of Toronto, was arrested at the time of the incident. He has been charged with:

1. Second-Degree Murder

He is scheduled to appear in court at College Park, on Thursday, December 13, 2018, at 10 a.m., in room 505.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-7400, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, online on our Facebook Leave a Tip page, or text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637). Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Allyson Douglas-Cook, Corporate Communications, for Detective Sergeant Katherine Stephenson, Homicide

Public Safety Alert, Vehicle Warm Up Thefts

Public Safety Alert, Vehicle Warm Up Thefts

Monday, December 3, 2018 - 3:30 PM
42 Division:  416-808-4200

The Toronto Police Service is warning members of the public that the arrival of extreme cold temperatures will result in the theft of their vehicles if they are left unattended and warming up in driveways.

During periods of extreme cold weather, thieves will quickly enter and steal vehicles that are left alone and running in driveways.

The Toronto Police Service is strongly advising members of the public not to leave their vehicles unattended and running at any time.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-4200, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, online on our Facebook Leave a Tip page, or text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637). Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.
Constable Caroline de Kloet, Corporate Communications, for A/Inspector Jim Gotell, 42 Division

Distraction Theft Alert, Woman wanted, Downtown core

Distraction Theft Alert, Woman wanted, Downtown core

Monday, December 3, 2018 - 12:00 PM
14 Division:  416-808-1400

The Toronto Police Service would like to make the public aware of a series of distraction theft investigations.

Over the past few weeks officers have responded to numerous calls for distraction thefts in the area bounded by College Street, Bathurst Street, Dundas Street West and Dufferin Street.

It is reported that:

- in all cases a 40-50 year-old woman approaches elderly women

- the victims have all been walking in the neighbourhood

- the suspect engages them in conversation

- she talks about religion, her sick mother or asks for directions

- she gives them a gift of a necklace that she places around their necks

- she removes the victim's jewelry in the process

She is described as white, with an olive complexion, 5'1", with a medium build and long dark hair. She has been seen getting out of a vehicle driven by another person, returning to the vehicle after the interaction and leaving.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-1400, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, online on our Facebook Leave a Tip page, or text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637). Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable David Hopkinson, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Leena Patel-Asner, 14 Division

Public Safety Alert, CRA Telephone Tax Scam

Public Safety Alert, CRA Telephone Tax Scam

Wednesday, November 28, 2018 - 1:45 PM
Financial Crimes:  416-808-7300

The Toronto Police Service Financial Crimes Unit would like to warn the public about the ongoing Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) telephone scam.

It starts with someone calling claiming to be with the CRA and saying you owe overdue taxes. The callers are aggressive and often claim you can be arrested if the money is not paid immediately. The callers insist the money be paid by way of Bitcoin or other crypto currencies, gift cards, credit card, or through Western Union. In some cases the fraudsters use a program to display the telephone number of either the revenue agency or local police on the victim's caller ID display.

Numerous residents have continued to receive telephone calls from these scammers. The public should be aware that police do not collect money for the Canada Revenue Agency. Although everyone is at risk of falling victim to these scams, elderly people are among the most vulnerable.

The CRA will not do the following:

• send email with a link and ask you to divulge personal or financial information.
• ask for personal information of any kind by email or text message
• request payments by prepaid credit cards, gift cards or through Bitcoin or any form of crypto-currency
• give taxpayer information to another person, unless formal authorization is provided by the taxpayer
• leave personal information on an answering machine
• or send the police after you

What should you do?

• Hang up the phone immediately! It's not rude, and could help protect you.
• Don't give out any personal information, including identification numbers, passwords or financial information.

Who should you contact?

• If you or a family member has fallen victim to this fraud, please report it to your local police service, as well as the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC).
• There are two ways to make a report to the CAFC; either by phone at 1-888-495-8501 (9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Eastern Time) or through their online reporting tool at www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/.
• Anyone who thinks they have fallen victim to this scam can contact their local police service.
• If you would like to learn more about the CRA scam please click on the following link:http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/on/scams-fraude/index-eng.htm.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Caroline de Kloet, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Diane Kelly, Financial Crimes Unit

Personal Injury Collision, King Street East and Sackville Street

Personal Injury Collision, King Street East and Sackville Street

Monday, November 26, 2018 - 5:06 PM
Traffic Services:  416-808-1900

On Saturday November 24, 2018, at 6:55 p.m., police were notified about a collision at King Street East and Sackville Street where a person had suffered serious injuries.

It is reported that:

- a 34-year-old woman was walking across King Street East at Sackville Street using the pedestrian crossover

- a 55-year-old female driver of a motor vehicle was travelling east on King Street East and struck the 34-year-old woman causing life threatening injuries.

Police are asking local residents, business, and drivers, who may have security or dash camera footage of the area or incident, to contact investigators.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-1900, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, online on our Facebook Leave a Tip page, or text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637). Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Allyson Douglas-Cook, Corporate Communications, for Superintendent Scott Baptist, Traffic Services

51 Division's Annual Food and Toy Drive - until December 24th

Homicide #91/2018, Queen Street East and Sherbourne Street

Homicide #91/2018, Queen Street East and Sherbourne Street

Monday, November 19, 2018 - 4:50 PM
51 Division:  416-808-7400

On Friday, November 16, 2018, at 3:30 p.m., officers responded to a call for an Unknown Trouble at Queen Street West and Sherbourne Street.

Reports indicated a man had been assaulted. Officers located a man suffering from serious trauma. He was taken to hospital but later succumbed to his injuries.

The victim has been identified as Paul Tonya, 47, of Toronto.

A post-mortem examination has yet to be scheduled.

Trevor Clarke, 45, of Toronto, was arrested at the time of the incident. He is charged with:

1. Manslaughter

He appeared in court at College Park on Monday, November 19, 2018, at 10 a.m., in room 501.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-7400, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, online on our Facebook Leave a Tip page, or text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637). Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable David Hopkinson, Corporate Communications, for Detective Paul Worden, Homicide

Homicide #63/2018, Man wanted, Update, Kyler Johnson, 23, Arrested

Homicide #63/2018, Man wanted, Update, Kyler Johnson, 23, Arrested

Friday, November 16, 2018 - 9:48 AM
51 Division:  416-808-7400

The Toronto Police Service would like to inform the public of an arrest made in a homicide investigation.

On Sunday, August 19, 2018, at approximately 2 a.m., police responded to a shooting call on the fourth floor of a residential building in the Adelaide Street East and Parliament Street area.

See previous release.

On Thursday, November 15, 2018, Kyler Johnson, 23, of Toronto, was arrested in London, Ontario. He is charged with:

1. First Degree Murder

He will appear in court at College Park on Friday, November 16, 2018, at 10 a.m., in room 501.

The Toronto Police Service would like to thank the London Police Service for their assistance bringing this incident to a safe and successful conclusion.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-7400, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, online on our Facebook Leave a Tip page, or text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637). Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable David Hopkinson, Corporate Communications, for Detective Katherine Stephenson, Homicide

Santa Claus Parade, Sunday, November 18, 2018, 12:30 p.m., Road closures

Santa Claus Parade, Sunday, November 18, 2018, 12:30 p.m., Road closures

Friday, November 16, 2018 - 9:00 AM
Public Safety - Major Events:  416-808-5043

The 114th annual Santa Claus Parade will take place on Sunday, November 18, 2018, at 12:30 p.m.

Road closure times are as follows:

- Bloor Street West, from Ossington Avenue to Christie Street, at 8 a.m.
- Bloor Street West, from Christie Street to Bathurst Street, at 10 a.m.
- Bloor Street West, from Bathurst Street to Bay Street, at 10:45 a.m.
- Avenue Road/Queen’s Park, from Davenport Road to College Street, at 10:45 a.m.
- University Avenue, from College Street to Dundas Street, at 11 a.m.
- University Avenue, from Dundas Street to Front Street, at 11:15 a.m.
- Wellington Street, from University Avenue to Jarvis Street, at 11:30 a.m.
- Front Street, from Bay Street to Jarvis Street, at 11:45 a.m.
- Front Street, from Jarvis Street to Sherbourne Street, at 11 a.m.

Vehicles parked along the parade route will be relocated to neighbouring streets starting at 6 a.m. on Sunday, November 18, 2018. To locate your vehicle, please call 416-808-6600.

At 11:45 a.m., the "Holly Jolly 5km Fun Run" will take place along the parade route. For the safety of runners and parade attendees, spectators are asked to ensure that children and all personal belongings are off the roadway by 11:30 a.m.

The parade will start at 12:30 p.m., and will proceed along the following route:

- start: Bloor Street West and Christie Street
- eastbound on Bloor Street West
- southbound on Queen's Park Crescent East
- southbound on University Avenue
- eastbound on Wellington Street West
- southbound on Yonge Street
- eastbound on Front Street East
- finish: Front Street East and Jarvis Street

Motorists travelling in the area can expect significant delays and should try to avoid the parade route.

Spectators attending the parade are advised to use public transportation. The TTC will be providing full subway and streetcar service.

The duration of the parade is approximately 2.5 hours, and will take place regardless of weather conditions.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Caroline de Kloet, Corporate Communications, for Constable Jennifer Ladouceur, Public Safety – Major Events

Homicide #63/2018 Update, Man Wanted, Kyler Johnson, 23, Photograph Released

Homicide #63/2018 Update, Man Wanted, Kyler Johnson, 23, Photograph Released

Wednesday, November 14, 2018 - 5:15 PM
51 Division:  416-808-7400

The Toronto Police Service requests the public's assistance locating a man wanted in a Homicide investigation.

On Sunday, August 19, 2018, at approximately 2 a.m., police responded to a shooting call on the fourth floor of a residential building in the Adelaide Street East and Parliament Street area.

See previous release

The suspect has been identified as Kyler Johnson, 23, of Toronto.

He is wanted on a warrant for:

1. First Degree Murder

He is considered to be armed and dangerous. Call 9-1-1 immediately.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-7400, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, online on our Facebook Leave a Tip page, or text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637). Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Katrina Arrogante, Corporate Communications, for Detective Robert Choe, Homicide

Kyler Johnson, 23, of Toronto

Remembrance Day Parade, Sunday, November 11, 2018, 10 a.m., Road Closures

Remembrance Day Parade, Sunday, November 11, 2018, 10 a.m., Road Closures

Saturday, November 10, 2018 - 5:00 PM
Public Safety - Major Events:  416-808-5043

Sunday, November 11, 2018, marks the 100-year anniversary of the end of World War 1. Thirty-two Brigade will host a Canadian Forces Military parade to commemorate this significant date.

The Remembrance Day Parade will start at 10:10 a.m., from Maple Leaf Square, travel northbound on York Street to northbound on University Avenue. At Dundas Street, the Parade will splinter into two separate routes.

One Parade will proceed eastbound on Dundas Street to southbound on Bay Street, arriving at Old City Hall for a ceremony at 10:45 a.m.

The second Parade will continue northbound on University Avenue to northbound Queens Park Crescent West, arriving at the Queens Park Legislature for a ceremony at 10:45 p.m.

Road closures begin in the formation area at 9:30 a.m., and continue along the route from 10:10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

The public is being asked not to park within the parade route after 7 a.m.

Traffic diversions and delays can be expected along the parade route commencing 10 a.m. until 11 a.m.

Motorists are advised to keep this information in mind when making travel plans.

The road closures are as follows:

- Bremner Boulevard, Maple Leaf Square will be closed from 15 York Street to Lakeshore Boulevard

Local traffic and parking garage access will be permitted on Bremner Boulevard via York St.

Parade route:

- start Maple Leaf Square
- westbound on Bremner Boulevard, westbound lanes
- northbound on York Street, northbound lanes
- northbound on University Avenue, northbound lanes
- Parade splits at Dundas Street into 2 routes

One Parade continues:

- northbound on University Avenue, northbound lanes
- northbound on Queens Park Crescent West, southbound lanes
- dispersal at Queens Park Legislative Building, Ceremony site

The second parade route:

- eastbound Dundas Street, eastbound lanes
- southbound Bay Street, southbound lanes
- dispersal at Old City Hall, Ceremony site

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Allyson Douglas-Cook, Corporate Communications, for Constable Tee Chase, Public Safety – Major Events

Public Safety Alert, Water heater scam targeting the elderly

Public Safety Alert, Water heater scam targeting the elderly

Thursday, November 8, 2018 - 1:15 PM
42 Division:  416-808-4200

The Toronto Police Service would like to make the public aware of a theft investigation that is targeting two senior citizens.

It is reported that:

- on Sunday, November 4, 2018, a resident who lives in the area of Brimley Road and McNicoll Avenue received a telephone call from a man advising that her water heater needed to be inspected

- the man stated that if she did not have her water heater inspected, she would be fined $1,000 by the Province of Ontario

- arrangements were made for the man to attend her residence on Monday, November 5, 2018, to inspect her water heater

- on Monday, November 5, 2018 at 4 p.m., two men attended the residence to inspect the water heater

- the two men went to the basement and checked the water heater, replaced a furnace filter and then went upstairs

- one of the men advised that he had to check the attic and went into the attic

- the man then advised he needed to check second floor and he went upstairs alone

- the two men then left the home and offered to return the next day to place more insulation in the attic

- after the men left, the resident discovered that the money kept in the house was taken

The Toronto Police Service urges homeowners to exercise caution when dealing with people who solicit business by phone or door-to-door in neighbourhoods. The public is reminded that in commercial transactions they should always verify the identity of a person or business before deciding to trust that person or business and invite them into their home.


Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-4200, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, online on our Facebook Leave a Tip page, or text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637). Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Jenifferjit Sidhu, Corporate Communications, for A/Inspector Jim Gotell, 42 Division

TPS Takes Parking Complaints Online, Decreasing call volumes for low risk incidents, like parking complaints, means increased service levels for emergency calls

TPS Takes Parking Complaints Online, Decreasing call volumes for low risk incidents, like parking complaints, means increased service levels for emergency calls

Monday, November 5, 2018 - 2:05 PM
Strategy Management:  416-808-7018

Starting today, the Toronto Police Service is taking parking complaints online. Now, members of the public can go online, report their parking complaint and get the assistance they need without having to place a telephone call to Toronto Police. Moving to an online parking complaint process is a better business delivery model and is in line with the ongoing implementation of the Service’s modernization plan.

"The call statistics for 2017 show 158,000 parking complaints were registered at Communications Services, which translates into roughly 2,400 hours for my Call Takers. These parking complaints come into our non-emergency and emergency lines," explained Toronto Chief of Police, Mark Saunders. "Anytime we can decrease call volumes for low risk incidents, like parking complaints, means increased service levels to people who call 9-1-1 for emergencies that require immediate Police, Fire or Ambulance to attend."

The Service will continue to seek out alternative reporting options for low risk incidents - those that do not require a police officer to immediately respond.

To file an online parking complaint, click here.

About the Action Plan: The Way Forward
Mandated to look beyond the way policing is currently done in Toronto; the Transformational Task Force (TTF) proposed a modernized policing model for the city that is innovative, sustainable, and affordable. The final report - Action Plan: The Way Forward – contains 32 recommendations and was accepted by the Toronto Police Services Board in February, 2017 as the Service’s Business Plan for the next three years. The Toronto Police Service is now implementing its modernization plan. The new model will place communities at its core, be intelligence-led, optimize the use of resources and technology, and embrace partnerships as a means of enhancing capacity and capability.

To read more about this and the entire Action Plan: The Way Forward, click here.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Meaghan Gray, Corporate Communications

Assistance sought identifying man wanted in a bank robbery investigation, Security photographs released

Assistance sought identifying man wanted in a bank robbery investigation, Security photographs released

Thursday, October 25, 2018 - 3:25 PM
Hold Up:  416-808-7350

The Toronto Police Hold Up Squad is seeking the public's assistance in identifying a man wanted in a bank robbery investigation.

It is alleged that;

- on Monday, October 15, 2018, at 12:45 p.m., a man walked into a bank branch in the Yonge Street and Wellesley Street area

- the man approached a teller and with his left hand he held up a hold up note

- the note made a demand for a specific quantity of money and stated he had a weapon

- the man retrieved a quantity of money and fled

The man is described as between 35 to 38 years old, approximately 5'8"-5'9", 170 lbs, medium build, wavy red shoulder length hair, beard and moustache. He was wearing a bright red puffy winter jacket and blue jeans.

To view video click here.


Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-7350, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, online on our Facebook Leave a Tip page, or text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637). Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Jenifferjit Sidhu, Corporate Communications, for Constable Christine Warner, Hold Up Squad

2018 Winter Coat Drive

Dundas and Sherbourne Area Safety Survey

Do you live, work &/or visit the Dundas & Sherbourne area? R U a service provider? Please complete our safety survey & encourage your neighbours, co-workers & clients 2 complete the survey - its anonymous.

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/Dundas_and_Sherbourne_Area_Safety_Survey

Wednesday, October 10, 2018, at 1 p.m., Cyber Security Awareness Month, #Fraudchat

Wednesday, October 10, 2018, at 1 p.m., Cyber Security Awareness Month, #Fraudchat

Wednesday, October 10, 2018 - 8:00 AM
Financial Crimes: 416-808-7300

Canadians are among the highest users of internet-enabled computer technology. A priority of the Toronto Police Service – Financial Crimes Unit is to make the public aware of issues of security and safety and help Canadians stay safe from cyber threats.

#Fraudchat is running a five-week series during Cyber Security Awareness Month with our special guest the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. These chats will cover the following topics:

Week 2, October 10: Buy Secure
Week 3, October 17: Our Data is Valuable
Week 4, October 24: Our Critical Eye and the Internet
Week 5, October 31: Our Future in Cyber Security

To follow #Fraudchat, members of the public simply need to log on to Twitter from 1 p.m., to 2 p.m., EST, and follow the #Fraudchat hashtag. An application such as “Tweetdeck,” which allows users to separately view tweets containing this hashtag, is also helpful in following the chat.

About #Fraudchat

#Fraudchat is an online program that seeks to educate and exchange ideas with the public about financial crimes and fraud. The moderators for this program are Gail Regan @ReganFCU, and Diane Kelly @DKellyFCU of the Financial Crimes Unit, along with Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre @Canantifraud.

For more information about #Fraudchat, please contact the Financial Crimes Unit at 416-808-7300.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Gary Long, Corporate Communications, for Detective Gail Regan, Financial Crimes

Thanksgiving Holiday On-Street Parking Enforcement

Thanksgiving Holiday On-Street Parking Enforcement

Saturday, October 6, 2018 - 12:00 PM
Parking Enforcement:  416-808-1600

The Toronto Police Service Parking Enforcement Unit will not be enforcing the following on-street parking bylaws during the Thanksgiving public holiday on Monday, October 8, 2018:

• Pay-and-Display/Metered Areas
• Rush-Hour Routes
• Posted signs indicating Monday to Friday regulations

All other areas and parking offences will continue to be enforced.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable David Hopkinson, Corporate Communications, for Brian Moniz, Operations Supervisor, Parking Enforcement Unit

Public safety alert, Break and enters reported in and around the Agincourt area

Public safety alert, Break and enters reported in and around the Agincourt area

Wednesday, October 3, 2018 - 2:45 PM
42 Division:  416-808-4200

The Toronto Police Service would like to warn the public about an increase in break and enters occurring in and around the Agincourt area, located in the northeast corner of the city.

It is reported that:

- residential homes are being broken into during daytime hours while the occupants are away at work

- entry into the home is gained by breaking a window or forcing open the front door

- the suspects ring the doorbell to determine whether or not there is someone in the home at the time

- if someone answers the door, the suspects create an excuse for ringing the doorbell, in some instances they have been known to offer yard work

Toronto Police urge members of the community to remain vigilant, to be aware of strangers in their neighbourhood, and to be cautious when people approach their doors and offer to do unsolicited work. Members of the community are advised to call police if they are concerned by suspicious or unknown people in their neighbourhood.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-4200, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, online on our Facebook Leave a Tip page, or text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637). Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Allyson Douglas-Cook, Corporate Communications, for Detective Sergeant Jim Gotell, 42 Division Criminal Investigations

Public Safety Alert, Downtown core, Wireless payment terminal thefts

Public Safety Alert, Downtown core, Wireless payment terminal thefts

Thursday, September 20, 2018 - 8:17 AM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

The Toronto Police Service is issuing an alert to businesses who utilize wireless payment terminals during the course of their business in the downtown core.

Recent reports suggest an increase in wireless payment terminal thefts which are, in turn, used to facilitate fraud.

The Toronto Police Service is recommending that wireless payment terminals are securely stored away when not in use and that staff supervise the terminals when they are being utilized.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-5100, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, online on our Facebook Leave a Tip page, or text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637). Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Jenifferjit Sidhu, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Elliott Lee, 51 Division

Toronto Police Service launches Full Body Scanner pilot project

Toronto Police Service launches Full Body Scanner pilot project

Tuesday, September 11, 2018 - 3:35 PM
Communities & Neighbourhoods Command:  416-808-7100

On Monday, September 10, 2018, the Toronto Police Service became the first police service in Canada to test a Full Body Scanner, when members of 14 Division began a six-month pilot project.

This technology gives officers the ability to conduct Level 3 Searches and locate evidence, contraband and/or items of concern, without having to conduct a physical strip search. It allows the Service to ensure the safety of everyone involved by reducing intrusiveness and increasing the dignity of those being searched.

In keeping with the mandate of the Transformational Task Force (TTF), the Full Body Scanner is being introduced as an innovative way of using technology to modernize existing policing practices. With refined training and procedures, created in line with the historical feedback on the issue of Level 3 Searches, the Full Body Scanner technology speaks to the Service’s goals of becoming more trusted, transparent and accountable.

Since August 2017, a project team has been exploring the feasibility of implementing this technology and has consulted with the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario, the Ministry of the Attorney General, the Ontario Human Rights Commission, the Special Investigations Unit, and the Office of the Independent Police Review Director.

After releasing a Request for Expressions of Interest in May 2018, the Service received submissions from two companies that provide the type of technology required for the pilot project. Equipment from both companies will be tested for the next six months.

At the conclusion of the pilot project, a review will be conducted and recommendations will be made for next steps.

Further information about the pilot project and Level 3 Searches can be found in the Frequently Asked Questions document.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Meaghan Gray, Corporate Communications, for Deputy Chief Peter Yuen, Communities and Neighbourhoods Command

Police request assistance identifying suspect in Assault investigation, Yonge Street and Carlton Street, Photographs of suspect released

Police request assistance identifying suspect in Assault investigation, Yonge Street and Carlton Street, Photographs of suspect released

Tuesday, September 4, 2018 - 12:38 PM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

The Toronto Police Service is requesting assistance identifying a suspect in an Assault investigation.

It is reported that:

- on Monday, April 23, 2018, at 8:30 p.m., a man approached another man, 34, who was in a wheelchair in the Shopper’s Drug Mart at Yonge Street and Carlton Street

- the man, 34, was assaulted by the suspect in the store

The male suspect is described as 45-50, 5'9"- 5'10", heavy build, olive complexion, blue eyes. He was last seen wearing all-black clothes with “Ellis Don” on the front of a hooded sweatshirt.

Photographs of the suspect have been released.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-5100, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, online on our Facebook Leave a Tip page, or text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637). Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Gary Long, Corporate Communications, for Detective Dave Wallace, 51 Division

Homicide #63/2018, Adelaide Street East and Parliament Street area, Jesse Graham-Richter, 22

Homicide #63/2018, Adelaide Street East and Parliament Street area, Jesse Graham-Richter, 22

Thursday, August 23, 2018 - 3:59 PM
51 Division:  416-808-7400

On Sunday, August 19, 2018, at approximately 2 a.m., police responded to a shooting call on the 4th floor of a residential building in the Adelaide Street East and Parliament Street area.

Responding officers located a man with an apparent gunshot wound. He was pronounced at the scene.

The victim has been identified as Jesse Graham-Richter, 22, of Toronto.

The male suspect is described as black, light skin, approximately 5’10”, approximately 20, wearing black jacket, dark pants.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-7400, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, online on our Facebook Leave a Tip page, or text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637). Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Katrina Arrogante, Corporate Communications, for Detective Robert Choe, Homicide

Public Safety Alert, Distraction Thefts/Robberies targeting seniors in 31 Division

Public Safety Alert, Distraction Thefts/Robberies targeting seniors in 31 Division

Tuesday, August 21, 2018 - 9:39 AM
31 Division:  416-808-3100

The Toronto Police Service is warning the public to be vigilant following a series of Distraction Thefts targeting seniors. Some of the Distraction Thefts have escalated into Robberies.

It has been reported that:

- these have occurred within the boundaries of 31 Division: Steeles Avenue to the north, Finch Avenue to the south, Highway 400 to the west and Sentinel Road to the east

- an unknown driver and two women, in a car, have been approaching seniors on the street in residential neighbourhoods

- the two women will then place jewellery on the victim, removing the victim’s existing jewellery in the process or one woman will embrace the victim, removing their jewellery in the process

- the victim usually realizes, after the fact, that their jewellery has been stolen

- if the victim realizes their jewellery is being removed, the suspects will resort to violence, pushing the victims to the ground

- there is no consistent suspect description other than two women and a driver of a silver/grey vehicle

Similar Distraction Thefts have been taking place across the Toronto area.

The public is reminded to be vigilant for these suspects in their neighbourhoods and to report any suspicious behaviour to police.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-3100, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, online on our Facebook Leave a Tip page, or text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637). Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Gary Long, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Russell Keveza, 31 Division Major Crime