Public Safety Alert, Man wanted in Sexual Assault investigation, Queen Street West and Yonge Street area

Toronto Police Service News Release

Public Safety Alert, Man wanted in Sexual Assault investigation, Queen Street West and Yonge Street area, Security camera images of man released, Update, Man faces six new charges for Sexual Assaults Towdros Wodajo, 56

Tuesday, April 15, 2014 - 6:00 AM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

On Wednesday, April 9, 2014, the Toronto Police Service requested the public's assistance identifying a man wanted in two Sexual Assault investigations in the Queen Street West and Yonge Street area.

On Friday, April 11, 2014, Towdros Wodajo, 56, of Toronto, was arrested for this series of Sexual Assaults. He faces the following charges:

1) Sexual Assault (two counts)

Investigation has revealed six other incidents of Sexual Assault allegedly committed by this man.

It is alleged that:

- on Wednesday, April 9, 2014, a woman, holding a baby, and a girl (approximately 13), pushing a stroller, were walking on Parliament Street south of Dundas Street

- they entered a store

- a man followed them into the store, approached the girl, and sexually assaulted her. The girl is unidentified.

- on Wednesday, April 9, 2014, a woman, 33, was walking south on Jarvis Street and Dundas Street East

- she was approached from behind and sexually assaulted by a man

- on Thursday, April 10, 2014, a woman, 43, was walking north in the Parliament Street and Carlton Street area

- a man followed her

- she went into a store and was followed inside

- the man sexually assaulted her

- the woman walked away from him

- the man followed her again

- he approached her and sexually assaulted her a second time

- he then fled down the street

- on Friday, April 11, 2014, a woman, 28, was on the sidewalk near Queen Street East and Church Street

- she saw a man approach another woman (unidentified), and sexually assault her

- she went to see if the victim needed help

- she was then also sexually assaulted by the same man

- she followed the man down the street, while calling police

- the man turned and confronted her again, while uttering threats

He now faces the following charges in this series:

1) Sexual Assault (five counts)
2) Sexual Interference
3) Utter Threats (two counts)

He was scheduled to appear in court at Old City Hall on Saturday, April 12, 2014, 10 a.m., room 101.

Police would like to speak to the young girl and woman who have been identified as victims but have not yet spoken to police.

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 defined by the Criminal Code of Canada as 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 Unit website.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable David Hopkinson, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Aleksandra Zlobicki, 51 Division

Canadian Bankers Association and TPS Hold Up appeal for assistance identifying four bank robbery suspects

Toronto Police Service News Release

Media advisory Tuesday, April 15, 2014, 12 p.m., Headquarters, media gallery, News conference, Canadian Bankers Association and TPS Hold Up appeal for assistance identifying four bank robbery suspects

Tuesday, April 15, 2014 - 5:15 AM
Hold Up:  416-808-7350

On Tuesday, April 15, 2014, at 12 p.m., in the media gallery at headquarters, the Canadian Bankers Association and TPS Hold Up are holding a news conference in relation to four different bank robbery suspects.

Suspect photographs and security camera video will be released.

Police are requesting the public's assistance with the identification of these suspects.

The conference will be broadcast on Bell TOC.


For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.


Constable Jenifferjit Sidhu, Corporate Communications, for Staff Inspector Mike Earl, Hold Up

Two men arrested in Child Pornography investigation

Toronto Police Service News Release

Two men arrested in Child Pornography investigation, Maxime Mallet, 30, Richard Molinari, 42

Friday, April 11, 2014 - 11:48 AM
51 Division:  416-808-8500

On Thursday, April 10, 2014, members of the TPS Sex Crimes Child Exploitation Section, with assistance from TPS Intelligence Services - Technological Crime, executed a search warrant in the Parliament Street and Queen Street East area.

It is alleged that:

- the two men would chat online about sexually assaulting young children

- they shared child pornography with others, online

They have both been charged with:

1) Possession of Child Pornography (two counts)
2) Make Available Child Pornography
3) Make Child Pornography
4) Accessing Child Pornography
5) Possession of a Schedule 1 Substance

They were scheduled to appear in court at Old City Hall on Friday, April 11, 2014, 10 a.m., room 101.

Police believe there may be other victims.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-8500, 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.

Reporting can also be made at Canada’s National Tipline for Reporting the Online Sexual Exploitation of Children at www.cybertip.ca.

This project has been made possible by a grant from the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services and the Ministry of the Attorney General.


For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.



Constable David Hopkinson, Corporate Communications, for Detective Paul Krawczyk, Sex Crimes - Child Exploitation Section

The Toronto Police Service is alerting the public to a "secret shopper" scam

News Release

Public Safety Alert, "Secret Shopper" scam

Friday, April 11, 2014 - 11:19 AM
23 Division:  416-808-2304

The Toronto Police Service is alerting the public to a "secret shopper" scam.

It is reported that:

- jobs are being offered to test the services of a cheque-cashing or money-transfer company

- the job promises a payment from each cheque cashed, however these cheques are fraudulent

The Toronto Police Service would like to remind the public not to accept cheques from a source you do not trust.

Be careful of job offers requiring money to be sent through a money-transfer service.

Use caution. You can be held accountable for the monetary loss by your bank.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-2304, 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.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable David Hopkinson, Corporate Communications, for Constable Christine Cooper, 23 Division

Be part of the Esplanadians' Live Movie Night!

In June and September 2014, Esplanadians will discover two very special movie nights set in Crombie Park: our plan is to "re-enact" a classic musical. In June, we're embarking with Grease. 

You've always dreamed of performing John's moves or Olivia's songs? Well, your time has come.

We're looking for people to be part of this re-enactment! Led by artists Anika Johnson and Barbara Johnston, a series of workshops all about dancing, singing and grease lightning will take place from April to June on The Esplanade. It's open to all ages, no experience needed. First workshop is this Friday, April 11th, at 6:30pm.

If you are interested in taking part in this project, or know someone who might be, do not hesitate to contact me to register...

A project in partnership with CORPUS and supported by The Ontario Trillium Foundation. 

Isorine

Isorine Marc

Executive & Programming Director

http://www.jamiiesplanade.org/file/Home.html

Sunday, April 13, 2014 Toronto Yonge Street 10K Run, Road closures

Toronto Police Service News Release

Sunday, April 13, 2014 Toronto Yonge Street 10K Run, Road closures

Friday, April 11, 2014 - 6:30 AM
Special Events Planning Office:  416-808-5076

On Sunday, April 13, 2014, the annual Toronto Yonge Street 10K Run will take place. The run will form up along Yonge Street at 7 a.m., and, at 9 a.m., will proceed over the following route:

Formation area: Yonge Street, from Lawrence Avenue to Erskine Avenue
- south on Yonge Street
- west on Richmond Street
- south on Peter Street and Blue Jays Way
- west on Front Street
- south on Bathurst Street
- west on Fort York Boulevard 
Finish line: Fort York Boulevard 

Road closures to the finish line: 6 a.m. to 2 p.m.:
Fort York Boulevard, from Bathurst Street to Lake Shore Boulevard

Road closures along race route 8:30 a.m.:
- Yonge Street, from Roselawn Avenue to King Street
- Richmond Street, from Yonge Street to Peter Street
- Peter Street and Blue Jays Way, from Richmond Street to Front Street
- Front Street from Blue Jays Way to Bathurst Street 
- Bathurst Street, from King Street to Lake Shore Boulevard 
- Fort York Boulevard, from Bathurst Street to Lake Shore Boulevard 
- Bathurst Street, from King Street to Lake Shore Boulevard 
- Fort York Boulevard, from Bathurst Street to Lake Shore Boulevard 
- Fleet Street, from Strachan Avenue to Fort York Boulevard 


TTC Diversion Route
As part of this run, the Yonge Street 97-320 bus will be diverted. 

The formation area set-up will take place from 6 a.m., to 11 a.m., buses operating on Yonge Street will be diverted in both directions using the following streets:

Northbound:
- north on Yonge Street
- east on Eglinton Avenue
- north on Mount Pleasant
- west on Lawrence Avenue
- north on Yonge Street

Southbound:
- south on Yonge Street
- east on Lawrence Avenue
- south on Mount Pleasant
- west on Eglinton Avenue
- south on Yonge Street

At 8:45 a.m., Yonge Street will be closed to all traffic between King Street and Eglinton Avenue. Buses operating on Yonge Street will be diverted in both directions using the following streets:

Northbound:
- north on Yonge Street
- west on King Street
- north on Bay Street
- west on Davenport Road
- north on Avenue Road
- east on Lawrence Avenue
- north on Yonge Street

Southbound:
- south on Yonge Street
- west on Lawrence Avenue
- south on Avenue Road
- east on Davenport Road
- south on Bay Street
- east on King Street
- south on Yonge Street

Motorists are requested to take extra caution while traveling on the above route as there will be delays.

Constable Jenifferjit Sidhu, Corporate Communications, for Constable Tee Chase, Special Events Planning Office

Police request public's assistance with Sexual Assault investigation

Toronto Police Service News Release

Police request public's assistance with Sexual Assault investigation

Wednesday, April 9, 2014 - 1:22 PM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

The Toronto Police Service is alerting the public to a sexual assault investigation and requesting the public's assistance.

On Tuesday, April 8, 2014, Michael Jourdain, 27, was arrested for a series of sexual assaults on the platform of College subway station.

It is alleged that:

- on Wednesday, March 5, 2014, at 8:53 a.m., a man approached and sexually assaulted two women

- immediately afterwards, he approached a woman, 35, and sexually assaulted her

- security cameras captured the assaults and the man

He faces the following charges:

1) Sexual Assault (three counts)

Police would like to speak with the first two women the suspect allegedly sexually assaulted.

He was scheduled to appear in court at Old City Hall on Wednesday, April 9, 2014, 10 a.m., room 101.

Police believe there may be other victims.

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 defined by the Criminal Code of Canada as 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 Unit website.


For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable David Hopkinson, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Aleksandra Zlobicki, 51 Division

Toronto Police Service celebrates International Day of Pink with students

Toronto Police Service News Release

Toronto Police Service celebrates International Day of Pink with students

Wednesday, April 9, 2014 - 10:10 AM
Corporate Communications:  416-808-7100

On Wednesday, April 9, 2014, the Toronto Police Service, in partnership with the students at Oakwood Collegiate Institute, celebrated the International Day of Pink by highlighting student-based anti-bullying initiatives and an awareness video created by members of the Service's Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans, Queer (LGBTQ) Internal Support Network.

Students at Oakwood Collegiate Institute have been spending the last several weeks developing anti-bullying campaigns that were showcased for the first time at the celebration. Projects included taking an anti-bullying pledge, creating dance and spoken-word performances, and a door-decorating contest.

"We are delighted to partner with the Toronto Police Service on initiatives that celebrate diversity," said TDSB Director of Education Donna Quan. "The TDSB is committed to providing positive spaces for all students and staff."

The Toronto Police Service video features members speaking about their personal experiences and history. It is aimed at students and youth, offers support, encouragement, guidance, resources, strategies and advice for coping with bullying and empowering those who witness bullying.

"The Toronto Police Service has included anti-bullying initiatives in almost every aspect of our service delivery," said Chief William Blair. "There is no better time to showcase these initiatives, and our partnership with the Toronto District School Board, than the International Day of Pink."

The International Day of Pink started when a Nova Scotia teen was bullied for wearing a pink shirt to school. His fellow students rallied - by all wearing pink - and showed their solidarity against LGBT-based discrimination.

The Toronto Police Service would like to thank the following community partners for their support and dedication to making this year’s International Day of Pink event a success:

- Toronto Police Service LGBTQ Community Consultative Committee
- Oakwood Collegiate Institute and the Toronto District School Board
- Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment
- Toronto Blue Jays Baseball Club & Rogers Centre

For anyone who is a victim of bullying, has witnessed bullying or who is a bully, there are resources available. Please visit any of the following websites for support:

Toronto PFLAG - http://www.torontopflag.org
Kids Helpphone - http://www.kidshelpphone.ca/teens/home/splash.aspx
SOY – Supporting our Youth - http://www.soytoronto.org
The 519 Community Centre - http://www.the519.org
Egale Canada - http://egale.ca



Constable Victor Kwong, Corporate Communications

City of Toronto works to improve roads and bridges during busy construction season

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:
==========================================

News Release:  April 7, 2014          

City of Toronto works to improve roads and bridges during busy construction season 

The City of Toronto will perform significant road work in 2014, including road resurfacing projects, to continue improving road conditions for all users.

The City will spend more than $215 million this year to improve the quality of Toronto's roads, expressways and bridges. In 2013, Toronto Council approved a 10-year rehabilitation plan that will see $30 million a year in extra funding for the rehabilitation of major roadways across the city.  

"It is critical that we continue to keep our roads and bridges in a state of good repair and Council's decision to provide more funding will allow us to fix more roads in our community," said Councillor Denzil Minnan-Wong (Ward 34 Don Valley West), Chair of the Public Works and Infrastructure Committee.

Major road work planned for 2014 includes Markham Road from Kingston Road to Lawrence Avenue, Victoria Park Avenue from Eglinton Avenue to Lawrence Avenue, Wilson Avenue from Bathurst Street to Dufferin Street, Finch Avenue from Kipling Avenue to Highway 27, and Kipling Avenue from Bloor Street to Dixon Road.  

In all, it is expected that the City will complete 185 kilometres of road resurfacing in 2014.

An additional $60 million will be spent on other work, including road work in conjunction with watermain and sewer replacement, as well as public realm initiatives such as boulevard greening and the installation of new planters and trees.    

The City also wants to minimize disruption to the travelling public while fixing the roads.

"It is important to co-ordinate the work very carefully in order to keep disruptions to a minimum," said Councillor Minnan-Wong. "We will continue our efforts to make sure that road work, sidewalk repairs and routine maintenance, as well as work performed by utility and communications companies, continue to be managed effectively by the City."

The City has repaired an average of 200,000 potholes a year over the past five years. Residents are asked to use the City's online service at http://www.toronto.ca/311 to report potholes so crews can be assigned to fix them. On that web page, simply click on "roads" to create a pothole service request or click on "open 311API and mobile apps" to download a mobile app to a smartphone.

The many special events taking place in Toronto will also contribute to the roads being busy this spring and summer. Major annual events such as the Beaches Jazz Festival, the Pride Parade and the Honda Indy will take place, along with smaller festivals, street celebrations, road races and other community events.

As a resource to make it easier for motorists to find their way around Toronto's streets, the City web page athttp://www.toronto.ca/torontostreets identifies ongoing and emergency road construction, travel conditions on City roads and special events. 

In addition, the public can use the City's T.O. INview online map at http://www.toronto.ca/inview, which shows information about planned capital construction work taking place across the city.

Toronto is Canada's largest city, the fourth largest in North America, and home to a diverse population of about 2.8 million people. It is a global centre for business, finance, arts and culture and is consistently ranked one of the world's most livable cities. Toronto is proud to be the Host City for the 2015 Pan American and Parapan American Games. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can visithttp://www.toronto.ca, call 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or follow us @TorontoComms.

- 30 -

Media contact: Steve Johnston, Strategic Communications, 416-392-4391, sjohnsto@toronto.ca 

Police request public's assistance with Fraud/Theft investigation, Man impersonating Toronto Fire Services member, Update, Man now identified, Jamie Barder, 37

Toronto Police Service News Release

Police request public's assistance with Fraud/Theft investigation, Man impersonating Toronto Fire Services member, Update, Man now identified, Jamie Barder, 37

Friday, April 4, 2014 - 3:32 PM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

Police are seeking the public's assistance identifying a man responsible for a number of thefts from employees and customers of local businesses.

He identifies himself as a member of Toronto Fire Services, or an official from an insurance company, checking on the status of the fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and sprinkler systems. Once permitted entry into restricted areas, he is reported to have stolen personal property of staff members and customers.

See previous release.

Police now have had over a dozen new victims come forward regarding this man. He has been identified as Jamie Barber, 37, of Toronto.

He is wanted on numerous charges in this, and another, parallel, investigation.

Police would like the public to be more cautious when dealing with people claiming to be fire inspectors. Any representative from Toronto Fire Services or other inspector will give prior warning before their attendance, they will be dressed in uniform and wear picture identification that is easily visible.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-5100, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online atwww.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.


For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.



Constable David Hopkinson, Corporate Communications, for Constable Amanda Annetts, 51 Division

City of Toronto kicks off annual Clean Toronto Together campaign

City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following:
==========================================

News Release:  April 4, 2014      

City of Toronto kicks off annual Clean Toronto Together campaign  

With spring here, the City of Toronto has introduced its Clean Toronto Together campaign for 2014. The annual spring cleanup brings together thousands of Toronto residents, students, businesses, organizations and community groups to keep the city clean and green.

"The Clean Toronto Together program is an important initiative for the city because everyone works together," said Mayor Rob Ford. "Whether it's students, office workers, community groups or City staff – it's great to see everyone pitch in and work together to keep our city clean."

The campaign starts with the City's interdivisional spring cleanup effort. Beginning this month, staff will be removing graffiti vandalism, cleaning up litter and hauling away dead trees and branches from City property. About 300 pieces of equipment are involved, including 50 litter vacuums, 45 sweepers, 20 front-end loaders, 50 stake trucks, 11 collection trucks and 60 pickup trucks.

Cleanup events will officially take place during Earth Week, from April 22 to 27. The Corporate and School Cleanup Day will be held on Friday, April 25. Students and office workers are encouraged to clean the area around their schools or workplaces.
  
On Saturday, April 26 and Sunday, April 27, everyone can join the Community Cleanup Days.  This is an opportunity for groups, associations and organizations to clean up a park or other public space in their local neighbourhood. 

The deadline for organizations and groups to register for their event is April 23. Registration is available online athttp://www.livegreentoronto.ca or by calling 311. Registration enables the City to arrange for litter pickup. 

New for 2014, the campaign plans to add more green to the clean. Given recent weather events, Toronto's public and private spaces need our help more than ever. Campaign participants are encouraged to learn about the tree canopy recovery effort including replanting lost trees and caring for damaged trees. 

Another area of concern this year is littered cigarette butts, which make up a large part of Toronto's littler and can take many years to break down. Smokers are asked to make use of cigarette butt receptacles instead of simply throwing the butts on the ground.

In recognition of this year's campaign, a special art installation called "Together We Can" will be displayed in the City Hall rotunda until April 17. The interactive installation, sponsored by GLAD Canada, was conceived by teacher John Notten and created by a group of Grade 9 artists from Mary Ward Catholic Secondary School to illustrate the importance of working collaboratively to Clean Toronto Together. 

For the fourth year in a row, GLAD Canada is the lead partner of the program. 

"We couldn't be more thrilled to be part of the Clean Toronto Together Program," said Soula Kioussis, Business Lead, GLAD Canada. "Today's event just goes to show how something as simple as spending a few minutes pitching in can make the difference in a community. This year, we are proud to provide participants with blue bags to encourage recycling wherever possible.”

CP24 is the broadcast partner for the event while Newstalk 1010 is the new radio partner. Other sponsors include the Toronto Sun, the Toronto Star, Tim Hortons, and Pizza Pizza.  Returning as community programming partners are Earth Day Canada and Park People. 

Toronto is Canada's largest city, the fourth largest in North America, and home to a diverse population of about 2.8 million people. It is a global centre for business, finance, arts and culture and is consistently ranked one of the world's most livable cities. Toronto is proud to be the Host City for the 2015 Pan American and Parapan American Games. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can visithttp://www.toronto.ca, call 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, or follow us @TorontoComms.

- 30 -

Media contact: Steve Johnston, Strategic Communications, 416-392-4391, sjohnsto@toronto.ca 

Public Safety Alert, Home invasion Robbery

Toronto Police Service News Release

Public Safety Alert, Home invasion Robbery

Friday, April 4, 2014 - 12:23 PM
33 Division:  416-808-3300

The Toronto Police Service would like to make the public aware of a home invasion robbery investigation

It is reported that:

- on Wednesday, April 2, 2014, at approximately 9:30 a.m., an 87-year-old woman was followed by a group of five men, from a nearby bank, to her home, in the Don Mills Road/Freshmeadow Drive area

- once at her home, the men knocked at her door

- when the woman answered the knock, after a brief moment, two of the men entered her home and demanded money

- the woman turned over her money, and the men fled

All of the men are described as white, and in their early 20s.

Residents are reminded to be vigilant if strangers knock at their door, and to call 9-1-1 immediately if they feel that they are being targeted by wrong-doers.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-3300, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online atwww.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.


For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.



Constable Victor Kwong, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Wesley Corbie, 33 Division

Homicide #17/2014, Shmar Parris, 25

Toronto Police Service News Release

Homicide #17/2014, Shmar Parris, 25

Friday, April 4, 2014 - 9:28 AM
51 Division:  416-808-7400

On Friday, April 4, 2014, at approximately 2:20 a.m., police were called to the Mutual Street/Gerrard Street East area for the reports of sound of gunshots.

While en route, police were called to the Carlton Street/Parliament Street area for the report of a collision.

Once on scene of the collision, police found a man with multiple gunshot wounds in a black Chevrolet Malibu. The man was taken to hospital and later pronounced dead.

The man has been identified as Shmar Parris, 25, of Toronto

It is reported that a light-coloured SUV was seen fleeing, then later seen driving erratically, westbound on Gardiner Expressway, west of Parliament Street.

It is believed that an altercation involving the Malibu and the SUV began on Mutual Street, and ended at the collision scene.

It is further believed that a passenger in the Malibu made her own way to hospital with a non-life-threatening gunshot wound.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-7400, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online atwww.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.


For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.



Constable Victor Kwong, Corporate Communications, for Detective Sergeant Steve Ryan, Homicide

Cops For Cancer Head Shave Fundraiser

Toronto Police Service News Release

Media advisory, Saturday, April 12, 11:30 a.m., Yorkdale Shopping Centre, 3401 Dufferin Street, Inside front of old Sears entrance, Cops For Cancer Head Shave Fundraiser

Friday, April 4, 2014 - 9:00 AM
Corporate Communications
416-808-7100

The public and the media are invited to participate in Cops for Cancer, the annual Head Shave Fundraiser at Yorkdale Shopping Centre, 3401 Dufferin Street, on Saturday, April 12, 2014, at 11:30 a.m., inside the front of the old Sears entrance.

Started in Edmonton in 1994, Cops for Cancer is a national program raising money for the Canadian Cancer Society to fund research and support patients.

The fundraiser will see dozens of members of the Toronto Police Service and the law-enforcement community, as well as members of the public, have their heads shaved and hair cut.

Hosted by emcees Frank Ferragine and Maurie Sherman, this energetic day will feature head-shaves, haircuts, the return of Jail-N-Bail, and a silent auction.

Canadian Cancer Society Senior Manager of Corporate and Community Partnerships Tonya Stewart said everyone should participate in the event once.

"Cops for Cancer is one of the Canadian Cancer Society's signature events and something every officer should do at least once. Cutting and donating your hair or shaving your head is a visible representation of your commitment to the fight against cancer and the funds you raise help us fund critical services for those fighting the disease today and innovative research into the causes and cures. The Society is so proud to partner with the Toronto Police Service, Yorkdale Shopping Centre and the community on this incredible event."

Yorkdale Shopping Centre is once again sponsoring and hosting the event.

"We are very proud to be lending our support to Cops for Cancer," said Claire Santamaria, General Manager of Yorkdale Shopping Centre. "This event highlights the tremendous community leadership of our friends at the Toronto Police Service, who inspire us every day in their work, and we hope to see lots of people at Yorkdale on April 12 to show their support in the fight against cancer."

TPS Staff Sergeant Chris Boddy will be among those shaving his head in support of the fundraiser.

"Cancer hits home for me and so many others in the community," Boddy said. "This event is a hugely positive way for the police and community to join forces in the fight against cancer."

Cops For Cancer Toronto Fundraising Web Page

Staff Sergeant Chris Boddy will be available for media interviews. Please contact him at chris.boddy@torontopolice.on.ca


For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.



Kevin Masterman, Corporate Communications, for Staff Sergeant Chris Boddy

Police seek public's assistance identifying suspects in home invasion robbery

Toronto Police Service News Release

Police seek public's assistance identifying suspects in home invasion robbery, Security camera images of suspects released

Thursday, April 3, 2014 - 12:06 PM
31 Division:  416-808-7350

On Tuesday, March 4, 2014, a man received a phone call saying he had just won a prize package that included a gift card, car detailing package, and an umbrella from a car dealership. He was advised the prize package would be delivered to his home.

A short time later, a man, wearing a mechanic's coverall uniform, bearing the car dealership logo, and clipboard, arrived at his door. As soon as the door was opened, the victim was punched in the face, and the suspect attempted to force his way into the home. The victim tried to close the door but the suspect was joined by two other men, who were wearing disguises. They forced their way in and subdued the victim. He was bound with plastic zip ties and had his eyes and mouth covered with duct tape.

The victim was kicked and struck about the head and body repeatedly, with a baton. The three men ransacked the house, took a number of items, then fled in an unknown direction. The victim was able to get outside the house where he screamed for help and police were called.

The victim sustained trauma to his head and bruising to his body, wrists and ankles. He was taken to hospital and treated.

Police are seeking the public's assistance to identify the three men in this home invasion.

1) male, brown, 20s, 5'7"-5'8"

2) male, thin build, wearing a hoodie and a disguise

3) male, wearing a black hoodie and grey disguise (possibly a scarf)

Police are warning the public to be cautious when dealing with representatives of businesses sent to their homes. Identification may be verified by calling the business directly.

Police also warn anyone who may come into contact with these three men that they are considered armed and dangerous. Do not approach them. Call 9-1-1.

Security camera video of the suspects may be viewed here.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-7350, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online atwww.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.


For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.



Constable David Hopkinson, Corporate Communications, for Staff Inspector Mike Earl, Hold Up

Public advisory, Event Ticket Fraud

Toronto Police Service News Release

Public advisory, Event Ticket Fraud

Wednesday, April 2, 2014 - 1:27 PM
Financial Crimes:  416-808-7300

With the Toronto Blue Jays' opening weekend, and the Toronto Raptors playoff appearance approaching, the Toronto Police Service would like to remind fans to be aware of the existence of fraudulent schemes involving event tickets.

Many fraudulent ticket schemes begin with ads, posted online, offering tickets for sale. The buyer contacts the person offering the tickets for sale and, upon settling on a price, the buyer is encouraged to send money electronically so the tickets can be sent. The buyer sends money, but the tickets never arrive.

The Toronto Police Service would also like to remind buyers of the existence of counterfeit tickets, often offered for sale on the street outside the venue.

Buyers are reminded that there is little recourse to recover cash paid on the street or over the internet in the secondary-ticket market. In order to mitigate risk, buyers are encouraged to:

- use ticket re-sale services which require proper registration of all parties

- use websites which offer dispute-resolution or payment-reversal in the event that the tickets provided were not as promised

- be wary of ads offering tickets for sold-out events for unusually low prices

- be wary of people requesting payment through money-transfer services (eg. Western Union, MoneyGram) or email money transfers

The safest option remains purchasing tickets directly from the original seller. Anyone purchasing tickets from a secondary source should be guided by the saying, "Let the buyer beware."


For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.



Constable Victor Kwong, Corporate Communications, for Detective Alan Spratt, Financial Crimes

Public advisory, Event Ticket Fraud

Toronto Police Service News Release

Public advisory, Event Ticket Fraud

Wednesday, April 2, 2014 - 1:27 PM
Financial Crimes:  416-808-7300

With the Toronto Blue Jays' opening weekend, and the Toronto Raptors playoff appearance approaching, the Toronto Police Service would like to remind fans to be aware of the existence of fraudulent schemes involving event tickets.

Many fraudulent ticket schemes begin with ads, posted online, offering tickets for sale. The buyer contacts the person offering the tickets for sale and, upon settling on a price, the buyer is encouraged to send money electronically so the tickets can be sent. The buyer sends money, but the tickets never arrive.

The Toronto Police Service would also like to remind buyers of the existence of counterfeit tickets, often offered for sale on the street outside the venue.

Buyers are reminded that there is little recourse to recover cash paid on the street or over the internet in the secondary-ticket market. In order to mitigate risk, buyers are encouraged to:

- use ticket re-sale services which require proper registration of all parties

- use websites which offer dispute-resolution or payment-reversal in the event that the tickets provided were not as promised

- be wary of ads offering tickets for sold-out events for unusually low prices

- be wary of people requesting payment through money-transfer services (eg. Western Union, MoneyGram) or email money transfers

The safest option remains purchasing tickets directly from the original seller. Anyone purchasing tickets from a secondary source should be guided by the saying, "Let the buyer beware."


For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.



Constable Victor Kwong, Corporate Communications, for Detective Alan Spratt, Financial Crimes

Public advisory, Event Ticket Fraud

Toronto Police Service News Release

Public advisory, Event Ticket Fraud

Wednesday, April 2, 2014 - 1:27 PM
Financial Crimes:   416-808-7300

With the Toronto Blue Jays' opening weekend, and the Toronto Raptors playoff appearance approaching, the Toronto Police Service would like to remind fans to be aware of the existence of fraudulent schemes involving event tickets.

Many fraudulent ticket schemes begin with ads, posted online, offering tickets for sale. The buyer contacts the person offering the tickets for sale and, upon settling on a price, the buyer is encouraged to send money electronically so the tickets can be sent. The buyer sends money, but the tickets never arrive.

The Toronto Police Service would also like to remind buyers of the existence of counterfeit tickets, often offered for sale on the street outside the venue.

Buyers are reminded that there is little recourse to recover cash paid on the street or over the internet in the secondary-ticket market. In order to mitigate risk, buyers are encouraged to:

- use ticket re-sale services which require proper registration of all parties

- use websites which offer dispute-resolution or payment-reversal in the event that the tickets provided were not as promised

- be wary of ads offering tickets for sold-out events for unusually low prices

- be wary of people requesting payment through money-transfer services (eg. Western Union, MoneyGram) or email money transfers

The safest option remains purchasing tickets directly from the original seller. Anyone purchasing tickets from a secondary source should be guided by the saying, "Let the buyer beware."

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Victor Kwong, Corporate Communications, for Detective Alan Spratt, Financial Crimes

Environment Day and Allan Gardens Clean up!

Man impersonating Toronto Fire Services member

Toronto Police Service News Release

Police request public's assistance with Fraud/Theft investigation, Man impersonating Toronto Fire Services member, Update, Security camera image now available

Tuesday, April 1, 2014 - 8:32 AM
14 Division: 416-808-1400

Police are seeking the public's assistance identifying a man responsible for a number of thefts from employees and customers of local businesses.

He identifies himself as a member of Toronto Fire Services, or an official from an insurance company, checking on the status of the fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and sprinkler systems. Once permitted entry into restricted areas, he is reported to have stolen personal property of staff members and customers.

See previous release.

Police now have a security camera image of the suspect.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-1400, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online atwww.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.


For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.



Constable David Hopkinson, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Ewa Sokolowska, 14 Division