Homicide #53/2015, Mark Ernsting, 39, Calvin Michael Nimoh, 21, charged with Second-Degree Murder, Update

Homicide #53/2015, Mark Ernsting, 39, Calvin Michael Nimoh, 21, charged with Second-Degree Murder, Update, Connection made to Robbery investigation, Further arrests made

Tuesday, December 29, 2015 - 3:15 PM

51 Division:  416-808-7400

On Tuesday, December 15, 2015, at 9:27 p.m., police responded to a call for a stabbing on McGill Street.

Excerpt of previous news release.

It is alleged that:

- once on scene, officers located a man with apparent stab wounds
- he was taken to hospital where he succumbed to his injuries a short time later.

He has been identified as Mark Ernsting, 39, of Toronto.

It is further alleged that:

- several witnesses came forward and provided suspect descriptions and a direction of travel.

At 10:26 p.m., a man was arrested in the Summerhill Avenue/Yonge Street area.

Calvin Michael Nimoh, 21, of Toronto, has been charged with:

1) Second-Degree Murder

He is scheduled to appear in court at College Park on Wednesday, December 16, 2015.

It is further alleged that:

- just prior to the homicide, at approximately 7:45 p.m., a 65-year-old woman was walking in the Yonge Street/Summerhill Avenue area

- the woman was approached by Calvin Michael Nimoh, and two women, who stabbed and robbed her of her purse

On Thursday, December 24, 2015, the women were arrested. A then-17-year-old, and Tia Thompson, 24, both of Toronto, are each charged with:

1) Robbery

2) Aggravated Assault

3) Possession of Property Obtained by Crime - Under

Tia Thompson is also charged with, in relation to the homicide:

4) Accessory after the Fact to Murder

5) Obstruct Peace Officer

The 18-year-old is scheduled to appear in court on Thursday, December 31, 2015, at 311 Jarvis, at 9 a.m., in courtroom 1.

Tia Thompson appear in court on Thursday, December 24, 2015, at College Park Courts, in courtroom 501.

Calvin Michael Nimoh, is scheduled to appear in court on Thursday, January 7, 2016, at College Park Court, in courtroom 505.

He will also be charged in relation to the robbery with:

2) Robbery
3) Assault with a Weapon
4) Weapons Dangerous

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

Please download the Toronto Police Service Mobile App for iOS or Android.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Victor Kwong, Corporate Communications, for Detective Paul Worden, Homicide

Public Safety Alert, Police warning on social network scam

Public Safety Alert, Police warning on social network scam

Thursday, December 24, 2015 - 10:59 AM
52 Division:  416-808-5200

The Toronto Police Service would like to make the public aware, once again, of an ongoing scam targeting male users of social networks.

It is reported that:

- male users on social networks that have messaging features, such as WeCHAT, Facebook, Skype, and Kijiji, to name a few, receive a request to privately message them

- the person requesting either is, or purports to be, female, and suggests moving from private messages to video chat

- the video chats become sexual in nature

- the requester then records the video chats of the male in compromising acts

- the requester then uploads the video to YouTube and sends the male a link

- the male is then extorted to send money or gift-cards under the threat of releasing the video publicly

It is believed the requesters are not from Canada.

People should be aware of the potential of internet scams, and should never disclose anything on non-secure/non-trusted sites.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-5200, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637). Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

Please download the Toronto Police Service Mobile App for iOS or Android.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Craig Brister, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Robert Stibbe, 52 Division

Parking regulations, Public holiday enforcement

Parking regulations, Public holiday enforcement

Thursday, December 24, 2015 - 10:46 AM
Parking Enforcement:  416-808-1600

Members of the public are reminded that most parking regulations will be in effect and enforced during the upcoming public holiday season.

The following offences will not be enforced on 

• Friday, December 25, 2015 (Christmas Day), 
• Saturday, December 26, 2015, (Boxing Day), and 
• Friday, January 1, 2016 (New Year’s Day), as by-law exemptions are in effect:

On-street meter and Pay-and-Display Offences: Payment is not required at on-street parking meters and pay-and-display machines on statutory holidays.

No Stopping and No Parking Rush Hour Routes Offences: No Stopping and no parking rush hour routes where signs indicate a time period (e.g. 3 p.m. - 7 p.m.) and also indicate Monday to Friday.

No Stopping and No Standing Offences - Except Public Holidays: No stopping and no standing offences where signs stipulate "Except Public Holidays."

Enforcement of all parking regulations will continue at all other times including Monday, December 28, 2015.

Please download the Toronto Police Service Mobile App for iOS or Android.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Caroline de Kloet, Corporate Communications, for Brian Moniz, Operations Supervisor Parking Enforcement West

Omar Nathan McLeod, 24, arrested in Harassment and Assault investigation, Police believe there may be other victims

Man arrested in Harassment and Assault investigation, Omar Nathan McLeod, 24, faces six charges, Police believe there may be other victims

Saturday, December 19, 2015 - 5:59 AM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

The Toronto Police Service is requesting the public's assistance with a Harassment and Assault investigation.

It is alleged that:

- in spring 2014, a man met a woman via an online dating site

- in autumn 2015, the man met another woman on the same site

- in both instances, the man engaged in stalking and assaultive behaviour

On Thursday, November 26, 2015, Omar Nathan McLeod, 24, of Toronto, was arrested. He was charged with:

1) Harassment
2) Assault
3) Overcome Resistance - Choke
4) two counts of Forcible Confinement
5) Uttering Threats

He appeared in court at College Park on Thursday, November 26, 2015.

Police believe there may be other victims.

His photograph has 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, 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.

Please download the Toronto Police Service Mobile App for iOS or Android.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Craig Brister, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Trevor Howard, 51 Division

An attachment to this release is available on our website. 

Omar Nathan McLeod, 24, arrested in Harassment and Assault investigation,
Police believe there may be other victims

MPP Glen Murray Moss Park Free Public Skate

Beginning on January 13th, The MPP Glen Murray Free Public Skate will begin another year of providing fun and physical activity to children and adults in Toronto Centre. Every Wednesday from 4PM-5PM in Moss Park Arena, skates, helmets, and ice time will be provided to whoever wants to use them. Be sure to show up right at four to make the most of the ice time and celebrate winter by enjoying a free skate! Also, due to the popularity of this event in the past, some of our skates are starting to suffer from some wear and tear! If anyone knows of any individual or organization that will be willing to donate some gently used kids or adults skates, give our office a call at 416-972-7683, or shoot us an email at gmurray.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org.

MPP Glen Murray E-Newsletter

Announcing the MPP Glen Murray Moss Park Free Public Skate
Beginning on January 13th, The MPP Glen Murray Free Public Skate will begin another year of providing fun and physical activity to children and adults in Toronto Centre. Every Wednesday from 4PM-5PM in Moss Park Arena, skates, helmets, and ice time will be provided to whoever wants to use them. Be sure to show up right at four to make the most of the ice time and celebrate winter by enjoying a free skate! 

Also, due to the popularity of this event in the past, some of our skates are starting to suffer from some wear and tear! If anyone knows of any individual or organization that will be willing to donate some gently used kids or adults skates, give our office a call at 416-972-7683, or shoot us an email at gmurray.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org.   

News From Queens Park 

New Global Climate Change Agreement
MPP Glen Murray has recently attended the successful COP21 climate change conference in Paris. MPP Murray represented Toronto Centre and Ontario at many events, including delivering a keynote address at the One Million Climate Jobs Forum, and attending a sub national leaders' Session with UN Secretary General Ban Ki Moon to secure official recognition for key regional initiatives.

The leaders at the conference set a strong goal of limiting climate change to an average global rise of 1.5 degrees Celsius, which will require communities all across Canada to come together and do their part, so Canada can do its part on the world stage.

PRESTO System Being Introduced on TTC Streetcars 
By the end of December, all legacy and new streetcars in the TTC fleet will be PRESTRO enabled, a new payment service that allows you to pay for boarding via card. By the end of 2016, the PRESTO fare card will be available in all TTC buses, streetcars and subway stations.

The availability and implementation of the PRESTO system should make getting around the city via public transportation a faster and more appealing process.

Building an Electric Vehicle Charging Network in Ontario 
The province of Ontario has announced its intention to launch a 20 million dollar grant program, where it will work closely with the public and privates sectors to build Ontario into a world leader in electric vehicles.The grants will encourage the building of a network of fast charging stations for electric vehicles across Ontario, encouraging efficient, economical, and environmentally safe methods of travel in the province. 

The full program details for this initiative will be available later in the month.

How You Can Help With The Refugee Crises in Syria 
The government of Ontario has released a new website aimed at those who want to help with the Syrian refugee crises in what ever way they can. The website contains information on how/where to volunteer, donate, sponsor, or even use your professional skills to help with the incoming refugees.

Up to 10,000 new Ontarians will be arriving within the next few months, so it is imperative that Ontarians are able to help in an effective and organized way. Click HERE to find out what you can do to help!

Community News
   
Regent Park Employment Services Relocating 
Regent Park Employment Services is moving from its current location at 530 Dundas Street East to the new regent Park Community Centre at 402 Shuter street when it opens up in January. Regent Park Employment services will also be partnering with Dixon Hall Neighborhood services which will be joining Regent Park Employment Services in the move! The new centre will be home to a gym, teaching kitchen, climbing wall, roof top garden and much more. 

This new centre will provide coordinated and integrated employment services utilizing the tools of both Dixon Employment Services as well Regent Park employment Services. 

Child-struck personal injury collision, Parliament Street at Winchester Street

Child-struck personal injury collision, Parliament Street at Winchester StreetFriday, December 18, 2015 - 12:48 PM
51 Division:  416-808-1900

The Toronto Police Service is requesting assistance locating a woman wanted in a Fail-to-Remain collision investigation.

On Tuesday, December 15, 2015, at approximately 8:45 a.m., police responded to a call for a personal injury collision at Parliament Street and Winchester Street.

It is reported that:

− a 11-year-old girl was attempting to cross Parliament Street, on the south side of Winchester Street

− a woman driving a Acura TL, northbound on Parliament Street, collided with the child as she attempted to cross the road

− the child was knocked to the ground

− the woman exited the vehicle, then got in to a verbal dispute with a witness who was sitting in a wheelchair on the southeast corner of the intersection

− the woman returned to her vehicle, making no attempt to speak to, or assist, the child who had been struck

- the woman also failed to surrender any information to the child

- the child was taken to hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

- the driver of the Acura TL is now wanted for failing to remain at the scene of an accident

- she is described as white, 30-40, medium build, with reddish-blonde shoulder-length hair, wearing a light-green jacket, dark pants and driving a white, four-door 2004-2006 Acura TL.

Police are also seeking the man who was seated in a wheelchair on the southeast corner of the intersection at the time of the collision.

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

Please download the Toronto Police Service Mobile App for iOS or Android.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable David Hopkinson, Corporate Communications, for Constable Clint Stibbe, Traffic Services

Child-struck personal injury collision, Parliament Street at Winchester Street

Public Safety Alert, Parliament Street and Dundas Street West area

Thursday, December 17, 2015 - 11:38 AM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

On Tuesday, December 16, 2015, at 6:50 p.m., a woman left her two young children in a vehicle, while she went into a store in the Parliament Street and Dundas Sreet West area.

It is reported that:

- an unknown man observed the woman leaving the vehicle

- as soon as the woman went into the store the man climbed into the vehicle and drove it away with the children still in the rear passenger seats

- moments later the woman returned to where she had left the vehicle and discovered the car and the children were gone

- the woman called police

- police located the car a few blocks away, with the children inside, unharmed

- the man had fled the area and the investigation is ongoing

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). Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

Please download the Toronto Police Service Mobile App for iOS or Android.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Allyson Douglas-Cook, Corporate Communications, for Detective Michelle Campbell, 51 Division

Seniors' Safety Town Hall - February 17, 2016

Good information for everyone but with a focus on seniors!

Special Guests:
• TPS Crime Prevention
• TPS Fraud Experts
• Ontario Securities Commission
• Canadian Association of Retired Persons

FREE Registration at 

https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/seniors-safety-town-hall-tickets-20594794585?ref=estw

Homicide #53/2015, Mark Ernsting, 39, Calvin Michael Nimoh, 21, charged with Second-Degree Murder

Homicide #53/2015, Mark Ernsting, 39, Calvin Michael Nimoh, 21, charged with Second-Degree Murder

Wednesday, December 16, 2015 - 9:21 AM
51 Division:  416-808-7400

On Tuesday, December 15, 2015, at 9:27 p.m., police responded to a call for a stabbing on McGill Street.

It is alleged that:

- once on scene, officers located a man with apparent stab wounds

- he was taken to hospital where he succumbed to his injuries a short time later.

He has been identified as Mark Ernsting, 39, of Toronto.

It is further alleged that:

- several witnesses came forward and provided suspect descriptions and a direction of travel.

At 10:26 p.m., a man was arrested in the Summerhill Avenue/Yonge Street area.

Calvin Michael Nimoh, 21, of Toronto, has been charged with:

1) Second-Degree Murder

He is scheduled to appear in court at College Park on Wednesday, December 16, 2015.

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

Please download the Toronto Police Service Mobile App for iOS or Android.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Victor Kwong, Corporate Communications, for Detective Sergeant Hank Idsinga, Homicide

Personal injury collision #61/2015, Queen Street East and Victoria Street

Personal injury collision #61/2015, Queen Street East and Victoria Street

Monday, December 14, 2015 - 12:22 PM
51 Division:  416-808-1900

On Saturday, December 12, 2015, at 6:45 a.m., police responded to a call for a personal injury collision at Queen Street East and Victoria Street.

It is reported that:

− a 40-year-old woman was on the ground in the westbound lanes of Queen Street East and Victoria Street

− a 46-year-old man was driving a 2013 Dodge Ram pick-up truck, westbound on Queen Street East, approaching Victoria Street

− the pick-up truck struck the woman

The 40-year-old woman was taken to hospital.

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

Please download the Toronto Police Service Mobile App for iOS or Android.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable David Hopkinson, Corporate Communications, for Constable Clint Stibbe, Traffic Services

Have you had contact with a police officer wearing a body-worn camera? We need your feedback

Have you had contact with a police officer wearing a body-worn camera? We need your feedbackMonday, December 14, 2015 - 8:44 AM
Area Field:  416-808-7769

We need your help to evaluate body-worn cameras.

In May 2015, the Toronto Police Service began a pilot project to evaluate the use of body-worn cameras. Approximately 100 frontline police officers are currently wearing the cameras while performing their regular duties. The pilot project is scheduled to conclude in March 2016.

As part of the evaluation of this pilot project, the Service is asking for feedback from community members who have interacted with officers wearing body-worn cameras. Having experienced the use of body-worn cameras, firsthand, this input will provide a valuable perspective.

Until the conclusion of the pilot project in March 2016, survey packages will be mailed to randomly selected community members who have had contact with an officer wearing a body-worn camera. The survey package will include a one-page survey and a business reply envelope.

The feedback received through these surveys will assist the Service greatly in the evaluation process.

Please download the Toronto Police Service Mobile App for iOS or Android.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Victor Kwong, Corporate Communications, for Mary Zisis, Area Field

Proud to be part of Honest Ed's final turkey giveaway!! Thx Aux S/Sgts INCE & MAIOLA @TPSAux13Div @TPSAux14Div pic.twitter.com/PJ3KCuZQMv

— TPS Auxiliary 51 Div (@TPSAux51Div) December 13, 2015

Generous donations of food from 51 Community and Loblaws to The Good Shepherd Centre

Generous donations of food from 51 Community and Loblaws to The Good Shepherd Centre pic.twitter.com/Ja4G7CSYMr

— Peter Troup (@petertroup_1626) December 12, 2015

You're invited on December 14th!

Toronto Centre M.P. Bill Morneau at Daniels Spectrum to celebrate our community, our country, and the volunteers who helped make a real difference on October 19th. 

Refreshments and entertainment will be provided.

Traffic safety continues to be a priority for the Toronto Police Service

R.I.D.E. spot check results, Kingston Road/Danforth Road, Friday, December 11, 2015, 6 a.m. - 11 a.m.

Friday, December 11, 2015 - 3:32 PM
Traffic Services:  416-808-1900

Traffic safety continues to be a priority for the Toronto Police Service.  

On Friday, December 11, 2015, from 6 a.m. to 11 a.m., Traffic Services performed a R.I.D.E. spot check at Kingston Road and Danforth Road.

During this spot check, drivers were identified as operating a motor vehicle after consuming alcohol. The results of the spot check are noted below:

Officers assigned: 7
Vehicles stopped: approximately 1,250
Screening tests performed: 2
Screening test - PASS: 1
Screening test - WARN: 1
Screening test - FAIL: 0

While far fewer people are choosing to drink and drive, more are getting into their cars in the morning after consuming quantities of alcohol the night before. Many do this without realizing they could still be impaired due to their blood-alcohol level. You cannot speed up the process of getting sober, not matter what you do, so a cold shower, an open window or an energy drink will not help. Only time will.

The Toronto Police Service is encouraging citizens to assist police in the war against impaired driving by calling 9−1−1 if they believe another driver may be impaired.

Another daytime R.I.D.E spot check will occur during the week of December 14-18, 2015. For further information, contact Constable Clint Stibbe at 416-808-1920.

Please download the Toronto Police Service Mobile App for iOS or Android.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Victor Kwong, Corporate Communications, for Constable Clint Stibbe, Traffic Services

Our Week 49 Crime Map
Posted by 11 Division - Toronto Police Service on Thursday, 10 December 2015

The Toronto Police Service would like to make the public aware of an arrest in a Sexual Assault investigation involving a 14-year-old boy.

Wednesday, December 9, 2015 - 2:43 PM
Sex Crimes:  416-808-2922

The Toronto Police Service would like to make the public aware of an arrest in a Sexual Assault investigation involving a 14-year-old boy.

It is alleged that:

- some time between January 2015 and May 2015, a 14-year-old boy was in the Wellesley Street East/Sherbourne Street area

- a man approached the boy, introduced himself as "Mike," engaged him in conversation, and invited him up to his apartment

- the man then sexually assaulted the boy

- after the initial encounter, the boy was sexually assaulted several other times within that period

- on one occasion, the man threatened the boy’s life

In December 2015, the boy notified the Toronto Police Service's Child Youth Advocacy Centre.

On Tuesday, December 8, 2015, Mervyn Fitzgerald Duncan, 52, of Toronto, was arrested. He is charged with:

1) Sexual Assault
2) Sexual Interference with a Person Under 16
3) Uttering Threats – Death

He appeared in court at College Park on Tuesday, December 8, 2015.

Police believe there may be other victims. Mervyn Fitzgerald Duncan is known to frequent the Wellesley Street and Sherbourne Street area.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-2922, 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.

The CYAC is a partnership among local community and government agencies. It is comprised of specialized child abuse investigators from the Toronto Police Service in partnership with Boost Child & Youth Advocacy Centre, Children’s Aid Society of Toronto, Catholic Children’s Aid Society of Toronto, Native Child & Family Services, Jewish Family & Child, SAFE-T Program (Halton Trauma Centre), Child Development Institute, the Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect Program (The Hospital for Sick Children) and the Victim Witness Assistance Program.

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.

Please download the Toronto Police Service Mobile App for iOS or Android.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Victor Kwong, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Conrad Wong, Sex Crimes

An attachment to this release is available on our website. 

Sexual Assault Alert,
Mervyn Fitzgerald Duncan, 52Wellesley Street East/Sherbourne Street area,
Man charged with Sexual Assault on boy, 14,
Police believe there may be other victms

Public assistance sought identifying man wanted for Attempt Murder, Security camera images of man released

Public assistance sought identifying man wanted for Attempt Murder, Security camera images of man released

Wednesday, December 9, 2015 - 1:57 PM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

The Toronto Police Service is seeking the public’s assistance identifying a man wanted for Attempt Murder.

It is reported that:

- on Monday, December 7, 2015, at 8:53 a.m., a 38-year-old man was walking in the Queen Street East/Church Street area

- he was approached from behind by another man

- armed with a knife, the other man stabbed the man in the neck

The man was taken to hospital.

The other man is described as 5’10”, 160 lbs., bald, with a beard. He was wearing a bucket hat, a black, three-quarter-length jacket, a black shirt underneath, and faded blue jeans with ripped patches on the front.

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). Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

Please download the Toronto Police Service Mobile App for iOS or Android.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Victor Kwong, Corporate Communications, for Detective Phil Hibbeln, 51 Division

Attachments to this release are available on our website. 

Arrests in $93M US pyramid scheme, Toronto and Vancouver men charged

Arrests in $93M US pyramid scheme, Toronto and Vancouver men charged

Wednesday, December 9, 2015 - 10:39 AM
Financial Crimes:  416-808-7300

The Mass Marketing Section of the Toronto Police Service Financial Crimes Unit is a member of the Toronto Strategic Partnership against Cross-Border Fraud. The partnership represents a combined enforcement strategy, specializing in the investigation of mass marketing fraud in, or originating from within the province of, Ontario with cross-border implications.

In January 2013, the Financial Crimes Unit started an investigation into an alleged pyramid scheme. The Toronto Police Service was assisted by investigators from the RCMP, Competition Bureau of Canada, Ministry of Government and Consumer Services, Ministry of Finance, U.S. Federal Trade Commission, FINTRAC, and the Canada Revenue Agency.

It is alleged that:

- between October 2010 and March 2013, a pyramid scheme known as “Banners Broker” was operated out of a Church Street address in Toronto

- the scheme offered participants the opportunity to double their money by investing in an advertising company that had access to a “globally renowned network”

- participants were led to believe their investments were being applied towards a program that offered payment for the direction of web traffic via referral links

- the program's existence was entirely dependent upon the fee-based entry of new members and little or no real product or service was provided

- new investors were drawn into the scheme via a series of false or misleading representations

- by the end of 2012, over $93 million US was obtained from thousands of participants, of which approximately $45 million was paid back to participants in the scheme

- the remaining funds were funneled to a number of offshore accounts in Belize, St. Lucia, Cyprus, and others

On Wednesday, December 9, 2015, Christopher George Smith, 45, of Toronto, and Rajiv Dixit, 45, of Vancouver, were arrested. They are charged with:

1) Defraud the Public - Over ($5000)
2) Possession of Proceeds of Crime
3) Launder Proceeds of Crime
4) Operate Scheme of Pyramid - Selling (Competition Act)
5) Make False or Misleading Representations (Competition Act)

The were scheduled to appear in court at Old City Hall on Wednesday, December 9, 2015,. The proceedings are subject to a publication ban.

Watch the news conference here.

Please download the Toronto Police Service Mobile App for iOS or Android.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Victor Kwong, Corporate Communications, for Detective Sergeant Ian Nichol, Financial Crimes

Police request assistance with Robbery investigation, Front Street and George Street area, Security camera images of man and woman released

Police request assistance with Robbery investigation, Front Street and George Street area, Security camera images of man and woman released

Tuesday, December 1, 2015 - 9:38 AM
52 Division:  416-808-5200

The Toronto Police Service would like to make the public aware of a Robbery investigation in the Front Street and George Street area.

It is reported that:

- on Tuesday, November 17, 2015, at approximately 3:45p.m., a man who was an employee in a building, entered the bathroom to clean it.

- shortly after, an unknown man also entered the bathroom

- the man was robbed at knifepoint by the unknown man who immediately left the bathroom

The unknown man is described as 6', with short brown hair and a heavy build. He was wearing a long, black, leather coat, blue hooded sweatshirt, blue jeans and black shoes.

He was with a woman. Investigators are attempting to identify both people.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-5200, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637). Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

Please download the Toronto Police Service Mobile App for iOS or Android.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Allyson Douglas-Cook, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Ryan Fardell, 52 Division

Attachments to this release are available on our website. 

Public Safety Alert, Thorncliffe Park Drive and Overlea Boulevard area, Tainted dog treats

Public Safety Alert, Thorncliffe Park Drive and Overlea Boulevard area, Tainted dog treats

Monday, November 30, 2015 - 9:54 AM
53 Division: 416-808-5300

The Toronto Police Service would like to make the public aware of a Public Mischief which may cause harm to pets.

It is reported that:

- on Friday, November 27, 2015, at 12:30p.m., a man was walking his dog in a park in the Thorncliffe Park Drive and Overlea Boulevard area

- the man noticed that his dog had a green stick-like object in its mouth

- recognizing it to be a dog treat, the man removed the object from his dog's mouth before the animal could consume the entire thing

- on returning home, the dog became violently ill

- suspecting the cause of the illness to be as a result of what his dog had consumed earlier, the man returned to the park

- there, he located several of the green stick-like objects on the ground within the park

- the treats are 13 cm long green sticks that have a very strong chemical smell

If located, there is a concern that other pets or children may consume the treats and become ill.

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

Please download the Toronto Police Service Mobile App for iOS or Android.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Allyson Douglas-Cook, Corporate Communications, for Detective Frank Olsen, 53 Division

An attachment to this release is available on our website. 

Shooting investigation, Gerrard Street East and Parliament Street area

Monday, November 30, 2015 - 10:54 AM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

The Toronto Police Service is requesting the public’s assistance with a shooting investigation

On Thursday, November 19, 2015 at 6:15p.m., police responded to a shooting at Gerrard Street East and Parliament Street.

It is reported that:

- two loud bangs were heard

- a bullet went through a parked car

- the possible suspect was seen fleeing the area

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). Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

Please download the Toronto Police Service Mobile App for iOS or Android.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Allyson Douglas-Cook, Corporate Communications, for Detective Sergeant Anne-Marie Bishop, 51 Division

Public Safety Alert, Distraction theft targeting Chinese female senior, Gerrard Street East and Logan Avenue area

Public Safety Alert, Distraction theft targeting Chinese female senior, Gerrard Street East and Logan Avenue area
Monday, November 30, 2015 - 10:22 AM
55 Division:  416-808-5500

Police would like to make the public aware of a distraction theft that targeted a Chinese female senior.

It is reported that:

-on Saturday, November 28, 2015, at 2:30 p.m., a Chinese female senior was approached on foot by three unknown women in the Gerrard Street East and Logan Avenue area.

- the three women engaged the senior woman in conversation in Cantonese

- they discussed various health ailments, and encouraged the senior woman to tell them about some of her ailments

- once she did so, the woman was convinced that her ailments were as of a result of a curse, and that she should see a "doctor" who could bless her and remove this curse

- as instructed, the senior woman then went to her home and returned to the area with a large sum of money, as well as gold coins and jewelry

- she then handed over the valuables to one of the unknown women who had waited in the area, and was advised to wait while they took the valuables to be blessed

- the unknown woman returned a short time after and handed the bag back to the woman, advising her not to look in the bag for a number of days or the items would lose their blessing

- the senior woman took her bag and walked away from the unknown woman

- she became suspicious and decided to look in her bag

- she discovered that all of her valuables were gone and had been replaced by fruit

- the unknown women were no longer in the area

The female suspects are described as:

- Asian, mid 40s, wearing a long red coat, jeans and a hat,
- Asian, mid 40s, wearing a short red coat,
- Asian, no further description.

Investigators believe that there may be other victims and are urging them to contact police. We would like to remind members of the public that the Toronto Police Service has translators available through the 9-1-1 emergency system, 24 hours day, seven days a week. Police appeal to citizens who have been victimised by these types of crimes to report them to police.

We ask people to educate their family members, especially those who do not speak English and are seniors, and make them aware of this type of crime. We also ask you, if you come in contact with anyone you believe is committing these crimes, to try to take down their licence plates, descriptions and to call police immediately.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-5500, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637). Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

Please download the Toronto Police Service Mobile App for iOS or Android.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Allyson Douglas-Cook, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Kurt Lindell, 55 Division

Public Safety Alert, Canada Revenue Agency scam

Public Safety Alert, Canada Revenue Agency scamFriday, November 27, 2015 - 9:21 AM
31 Division:  416-808-3100

The Toronto Police Service would like to make the public aware of an ongoing scam where people are receiving calls from unknown individuals claiming to be employees of the Canada Revenue Agency.

The Canada Revenue Agency does not ask for immediate payments to be made through the following venues:

1) Western Union, Money Gram or wire-to-wire bank transfers to people who are from another province or country

2) Purchasing pre-paid credit cards or any gift cards only to provide the card information over the phone

If you have been contacted by someone claiming to be an agent for the Canada Revenue Agency, please be aware and cautious regarding the information you are providing. Ask for any credentials and ask for a phone number to call once you have confirmed all the credentials. Please contact your local police to report the incident.

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

Please download the Toronto Police Service Mobile App for iOS or Android.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Jenifferjit Sidhu, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Erwin Mendoza, 31 Division Fraud

Police seeking assistance identifying man in Sexual Assault investigation, TTC northbound, Dundas subway station

Police seeking assistance identifying man in Sexual Assault investigation, TTC northbound, Dundas subway station, Security camera images releasedFriday, November 27, 2015 - 8:57 AM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

The Toronto Police Service is requesting the public's assistance with a Sexual Assault investigation.

It is reported that:

- on Tuesday, September 17, 2015, at approximately 5:30 p.m. a 32-year-old woman boarded the northbound subway train at Dundas station

- while on the subway train, an unknown man approached the woman

- the unknown man sexually assaulted the woman

- the woman exited the subway at Lawrence station

- the man also exited the subway at Lawrence station and followed the woman

- the woman remained at the collector's booth and the man left the subway station

The unknown man is described as 20-26, 5'6", 125 lbs., dark eyes, thin build, clean-shaven with full lips. He was wearing a grey toque with thick forehead brim, green T-shirt with a repetitive circular pattern.

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). Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

Please download the Toronto Police Service Mobile App for iOS or Android.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Jenifferjit Sidhu, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Paul Shanly, 51 Division

Police seeking assistance identifying man in Sexual Assault investigation, TTC northbound, Dundas subway station

Police seeking assistance identifying man in Sexual Assault investigation, TTC northbound, Dundas subway station

Ontario’s police chiefs launch provincial "Lock It OR Lose It" crime prevention campaign

Media advisory, Tuesday, November 24, 2015, 10 a.m., GO Transit Scarborough Station, 3615 St. Clair Avenue East (at Midland Avenue), Ontario’s police chiefs launch provincial "Lock It OR Lose It" crime prevention campaign

Tuesday, November 24, 2015 - 4:59 AM
Corporate Communications:  416-808-7100

On Tuesday, November 24, 2015, at 10 a.m., police leaders and officers from the Toronto Police Service, GO Transit and other police services will be joined by campaign supporters to kick off the OACP’s annual province-wide crime prevention campaign targeting auto thefts and valuables in unsecured vehicles.

Officers will be going out into the Scarborough GO Transit parking lot to check on vehicles following the media event.

The following will be speaking at the event and will be available to the media:

- Chief Jeff McGuire, Niagara Regional Police Service and President of the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police

- Inspector Dave Saunders, Toronto Police Service

- Steve Harvey, Inspector of Operational, GO Transit

- Rick Dubin, Vice-President, Investigative Services, Insurance Bureau of Canada

- Steve Sanderson, President, Accident Support Services International Ltd.

- Mark Sullivan, Head – Fraud Market Management, Interac Association/Acxsys Corporation

Under the "Lock It OR Lose It" crime prevention campaign, police officers throughout Ontario will examine parked vehicles to confirm they are locked and that no valuables have been left in plain view.

For more information, please contact Joe Couto, OACP Director of Government Relations & Communications, at 416-926-0424 ext. 22, 416-919-9798, or media@oacp.ca

Members of the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police serve their communities as the senior police leaders in municipal, regional, provincial national, and First Nations police services across Ontario. You can connect with the OACP on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.

Please download the Toronto Police Service Mobile App for iOS or Android.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Meaghan Gray, Corporate Communications, for the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police