Monday, September 30, 2019

Chief Saunders' Midpoint Update on Project Community Space 525 Charges, 240 Arrests


Chief Saunders' Midpoint Update on Project Community Space 525 Charges, 240 Arrests

Monday, September 30, 2019 - 10:30 AM
Corporate Communications:  416-808-7100

Toronto Police Service Chief Mark Saunders provided an update today on the first six weeks of Project Community Space.

The mandate of the 11-week, intelligence-led operational plan is to increase the safety of those communities dealing with increased gun violence and street gang activity this past summer.

The program includes monitoring bail compliance, enhanced engagement with communities, and increasing police presence and visibility in areas frequently associated with street gangs and gun violence.

“The members of the Toronto Police Service, under the direction of the Integrated Gun and Gang Task Force, have been extremely effective in implementing this operational plan and increasing the safety of Toronto communities,” said Chief Saunders.

“Officers laid 525 charges in the first six weeks of the project with firearm-related offences accounting for 35% of the charges, and failure to comply or breach of conditions accounting for 17% of charges laid. Eleven percent of these charges were for violent offences including assault, robbery and sexual offences. A further 8% of arrests were for outstanding warrants,” he continued.

In the first six weeks of the Project, 12 individuals who were free on bail for firearm-related offences were re-arrested.

In addition to failure to comply, they faced a variety of new firearm and violence-related charges including possession of firearms which had serial numbers tampered with, possession of prohibited and restricted firearms, and assault with a weapon.

“At the midpoint of Project Community Space, there was a 30% decrease in shooting events compared to the six weeks prior to the start of the Project,” said Chief Saunders.

The results support the Project being intelligence-led in that officers are in key areas and able to get to scenes quickly. Time onsite processing complaints was 15% shorter, allowing officers to address the issue and move on to the next call.

“Being community-focused is a key element of the Service’s modernization, and this enhancement has allowed our officers to be where communities need us most,” he continued. “The increased visibility of officers, in their patrol cars and on foot in areas where street gangs are prevalent has been effective as a deterrent.”

Toronto Police officers led a bail enforcement surge and checked 876 individuals who are currently out on bail.

Communities have consistently informed our team members that they noticed an increased presence of officers in their neighbourhoods in the last six weeks and that they feel safer in their communities. Toronto Police also made 38 referrals of which 17 were to a gang exit program.

The Integrated Gun and Gang Task Force has hosted six of 31 planned gang prevention town halls, aimed at educating and supporting families who live in areas most affected by gang activity.

The Project received funding from all three levels of government. It is scheduled to end on October 31, 2019.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca

Allison MacNeil Sparkes, Corporate Communications, for the Office of the Chief



Sunday, September 29, 2019

Homicide #50/2019, George Hislop Park, Robin Besito, 50, Update, Date, Time, and Photograph added


Homicide #50/2019, George Hislop Park, Robin Besito, 50, Update, Date, Time, and Photograph added

Sunday, September 29, 2019 - 10:05 PM
51 Division:  416-808-7400

On Tuesday, September 24, 2019, at approximately 10:00 p.m., police and paramedics responded to a medical call at George Hislop Park.

Officers arrived and located a man with obvious trauma.

On Friday, September 27, 2019, the man succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased in hospital.

Homicide unit are investigating.

The man has been identified as Robin Besito, 50, of no fixed address. His photograph is attached.

The incident that led to the homicide, occurred on Tuesday, September 24, 2019.

Police are making an appeal to anyone with dash cam video, who may have been in the George Hislop Park area bounded by the following streets:

  • Charles Street to the north
  • Yonge Street to the west
  • Wellesley Street to the south
  • Church Street to the east
Side streets will include:
  • Isabella Street
  • Gloucester Street
  • Dundonald Avenue
  • Wabenose Lane
Anyone with information is asked to call investigators 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 Alex Li, Corporate Communications, for Detective Amanda Thornton, Homicide



Homicide #50/2019, Robin Besito, 50

Saturday, September 28, 2019

Homicide #50/2019, George Hislop Park, Robin Besito, 50


Homicide #50/2019, George Hislop Park, Robin Besito, 50

Saturday, September 28, 2019 - 6:05 PM
51 Division:  416-808-7400

On Tuesday, September 24, 2019, at approximately 11:40 a:m., Police and Toronto Paramedics responded to a medical call at George Hislop Park.

Officers arrived and located a man with obvious trauma.

He was taken to hospital by paramedics. At hospital, the man's condition deteriorated and his injuries were deemed to be life-threatening.

On Friday, September 27, 2019, the man succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced deceased.

He has been identified as Robin Besito, 50, of no fixed address.

Homicide has taken carriage of the investigation.

Investigators are appealing to anyone who may have been in the area of George Hislop Park, during the late morning hours on Tuesday, September 24, 2019, who heard or saw anything out of the ordinary 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 Amanda Thornton, Homicide



Wednesday, September 25, 2019

Coffee With A Cop - Thursday October 3, 2019, 11am-1pm


Suspicious incident, Men targeting seniors to offer fraudulent home repairs


Suspicious incident, Men targeting seniors to offer fraudulent home repairs

Wednesday, September 25, 2019 - 5:00 PM
53 Division:  416-808-5300

The Toronto Police Service would like to advise the public of a fraudulent scheme targeting seniors.

On Tuesday, September 24, 2019, police were called to the area of Bayview Ave and Blythwood Road.

It is reported that:

- one to three men were approaching homes occupied by seniors and convincing them that they need roof, driveway, or some sort of home renovation

- the men provided a list of repairs and usually quoted a price

- after allegedly starting some repairs, the men prepared a list of more work required and increased the price before demanding payment

- the men accepted mostly cash and go with the victim to a nearby bank machine to withdraw money and take the payment

- it is believed that no actual repairs are required or completed

The men are described as follows:
Suspect #1: white, 5'10", short dark hair, medium build and with a heavy Scottish accent
Suspect #2: white, 5'10", fair skin, athletic build, blue eyes and with a heavy Scottish accent
Suspect #3: white, 5'10", late thirties, dark short hair and muscular build

They may be driving a white van or truck.

Police are encouraging people to be extra cautious if approached for unsolicited home repairs and to phone police to report any suspicious solicitation for home repairs.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-5300, 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 Staff Sergeant Scott Bradbury. 53 Division


Fraud/Theft Investigation, Wanted Man Posing As Maintenance Worker


Fraud/Theft Investigation, Wanted Man Posing As Maintenance Worker

Wednesday, September 25, 2019 - 4:30 PM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

The Toronto Police Service would like to make the public aware of an ongoing Fraud and Theft investigation.

It is alleged:

- a man has been attending businesses in the downtown core

- the man identifies himself as a maintenance worker tasked with checking the sprinkler systems and/or fire extinguishers

- once he is permitted entry into the businesses, the man is reported to have stolen personal property from staff members

As part of several parallel investigations a man has been identified as Jamie Barber, 43, of Toronto.

He is wanted on numerous charges.

Police would like to remind the public to be vigilant when dealing with people claiming to be maintenance workers. Businesses in particular should ensure that they confirm with building management before allowing access to any person coming unannounced to perform maintenance work in their offices.

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 Thomas Comeau, 51 Division



Jamie Barber, 43, of Toronto, is wanted in a fraud investigation.

Thursday, September 19, 2019

Public Safety Alert, Sexual Assault Investigation, Cherry Beach


Public Safety Alert, Sexual Assault Investigation, Cherry Beach

Thursday, September 19, 2019 - 6:20 PM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

The Toronto Police Service would like to make the public aware of a Sexual Assault investigation in the Cherry Beach area.

It is reported that:

- on Sunday, September 15, 2019, between 4 a.m. and 5 a.m., a woman was walking on the Martin Goodman Trail between Cherry Beach and Regatta Road

- at this time she was sexually assaulted by an unknown man

It is further reported that:

- earlier in the month on Sunday, September 1, 2019, in the early morning hours, another woman was sexually assaulted by an unknown man in the same area

The suspect is described as 25 to 30 years-of-age, 5’7” – 5’8”, with a brown skin tone, stocky build, round face, clean shaven, with brown eyes and full lips. In at least one instance he was wearing a grey hooded sweatshirt with the hood up and dark-coloured track pants.

Police are seeking help identifying this man.

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 Allyson Douglas-Cook, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Anthony Hampton, 51 Division


Monday, September 16, 2019

Coffee With A Cop


Coffee With A Cop

You are invited to sit down for a cup of coffee with a member of the Toronto Police Service. Residents will have the opportunity to talk about issues that matter to them in a relaxed environment.

The event will be held in Tim Hortons located at 323 Richmond Street East. The casual setting of the meeting is an effort by police, to break down the barriers between law enforcement and civilians in the hopes of giving voice to those who may otherwise be afraid to speak up. The event is scheduled to take place from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM on September 19, 2019.

Several officers will be attending the meet-up, sitting down with members of the community to engage in informal discussion about community issues and help build relationships over a free cup of Tim Horton's coffee.


Thursday, September 12, 2019

Enhancements to Neighbourhood Community Officer Program


Enhancements to Neighbourhood Community Officer Program

Thursday, September 12, 2019 - 10:45 AM
Community Partnerships and Engagement Unit
416-808-0185

Chief Mark Saunders announced enhancements to the Neighbourhood Community Officer Program (NCOP) at a news conference on Thursday, September 12, 2019.

Watch the News Conference



Currently, there are 44 Neighbourhood Community Officers - including four Sergeants - operating with enhancements in 41, 42, 11 and 22 Divisions. These enhancements will now be adopted by all remaining 83 Neighbourhood Community Officers, bringing the total to 127 NCOs, servicing 35 City of Toronto Neighbourhoods.

The Neighbourhood Community Officer enhancements, include:

- standardized mandate to focus on building partnerships in the community and working towards long-term solutions to public safety and disorder issues
- community-centric training specific to their role
- assigned to each neighbourhood for at least four years
- identified as NCOs on uniforms and vehicles
- access their work environment through a mobile device allowing officers to spend more time in their assigned neighbourhoods

Watch Neighbourhood Community Officer introduction video




Chief Mark Saunders said the Neighbourhood Community Officer role is important to TPS strategy to be where the community needs police most.

"The program puts community at the heart of our work. It’s important because it’s also a commitment we made in The Way Forward. We know success here is about trust. It’s about building and keeping trust in our day-to-day policing."

Humber College Faculty of Community and Social Services Professor Doug Thomson said a new report on community and police perspectives about the program will be ready in 2020.

"So far, the results we have collected from Toronto communities show neighbourhood residents feel safer in their communities and are less afraid of crime and the threats of gangs. The results also show community members see the Neighbourhood Community Officers as important members of their communities, and feel comfortable approaching them."

For more information and videos on the program, visit the NCOP webpage.

Kevin Masterman, Corporate Communications, for Superintendent David Rydzik, Community Partnerships and Engagement Unit


Friday, September 06, 2019

Sexual Assault Alert, Cherry Beach – Regatta Road


Sexual Assault Alert, Cherry Beach – Regatta Road

Friday, September 6, 2019 - 5:15 PM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

The Toronto Police Service requests the public's assistance identifying a man involved in a sexual assault that occurred in the Cherry Beach - Regatta Road area.

It is reported that:

- on Sunday, September 1, 2019, between 1 a.m. and 2 a.m., a woman walking alone on the Martin Goodman Trail between Cherry Beach and Regatta Road was assaulted by a man

The suspect was described as a male with brown skin, 5'7"–5'8", stocky build, round face, clean shaven, brown eyes, and full lips. He wore a grey hooded sweatshirt with the hood up, dark coloured track pants.

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, text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637), or Leave A Tip on Facebook. Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

A sexual assault is any form of unwanted sexual contact. It includes, but is not limited to, kissing, grabbing, oral sex and penetration. To learn more about sexual assault, including how to report a sexual assault, please visit our Sex Crimes website.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Caroline de Kloet, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Anthony Hampton, 51 Division