53 Division News

Cram-A-Cruiser

Tue, 28 Apr 2026 19:09:46 GMT

5 District General Information Session on April 28, 2026

Fri, 24 Apr 2026 12:55:07 GMT

5 District General Information Session

on April 28, 2026

Learn more about Opportunities with the TPS. Connect directly with the recruitment team, meet members , and learn more about career opportunities with the Toronto Police Service.

Student Leadership Bursary Awards 2026

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 13:15:05 GMT

53 Division CPLC is excited to announce it is now accepting applications for the 2026 Student Leadership Bursary Awards.

Coffee with a Cop

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 11:52:32 GMT

Painting with Cops

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 14:22:11 GMT

Cupcakes & Cops

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 14:21:11 GMT

Coffee with a Cop

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 18:33:42 GMT

Project Re-Cycle 2026

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 17:12:24 GMT

53 Division NCOs have started collecting bicycles for Project Re-Cycle for 2026!

Drop off bikes at 53 Division or the Gateway Bike Hub, or contact to arrange pick up.

Festive Holiday Fundraiser

Thu, 11 Dec 2025 12:16:14 GMT

53 Division Community Police Liaison Committee (CPLC) host Festive Holiday Fundraiser at Cumberland Private Wealth

The purpose of this event was to raise funds for the CPLC Student Leadership B ursary at 53 Division. Additionally, it aimed to foste r community engagement between the police and the public.

We are thrilled to announce that the event was a resounding success. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to everyone who attended our event, showing their commitment to the 53 Division Student Scholarship program.

We must emphasize that this event would not have been possible without the remarkable support of all our sponsors, community partners and especially all of our volunteers.

Sponsors

2nd Annual Toronto Police Pumpkin Challenge

Tue, 04 Nov 2025 18:32:11 GMT

2nd Annual Toronto Police Pumpkin Challenge

53 Division participated and WON the 2nd Annual Toronto Police Pumpkin Challenge, hosted by the Rogers Road BIA.

Festive Holiday Fundraiser 2025

Tue, 30 Sep 2025 11:09:40 GMT

Cram-A-Cruiser

Thu, 18 Sep 2025 16:04:48 GMT

Save the Date

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 10:52:13 GMT

Pickleball with a Cop

84575@tps.ca — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 16:49:18 GMT

53 Division Open House

84575@tps.ca — Thu, 29 May 2025 13:49:13 GMT

Save the Date!

Join us for a station tour, sweet treat and some fun and games!

Cram-A-Cruiser

84575@tps.ca — Thu, 29 May 2025 13:46:10 GMT

Ride the Track

Wed, 14 May 2025 14:15:31 GMT

53 Division Prayer Walk 2025

Wed, 14 May 2025 11:47:29 GMT

53 Division Prayer Walk

On May 8, 2025 53 Division participated in the Annual Prayer Walk.

The prayer-walk started in North Etobicoke 2005 by the established “Etobicoke Strategy” with the present leaders, Dr. Andrew King and Dr. Carmen Lewis in collaboration with Division 23 (Sup. Tavener). The initiative was to aid in the reduction of incident crime and continues once-a-month.

This year all Division across the GTA participated in the initiative to establish greater awareness and improve relations among TPS Divisions and local Faith-Leaders as “bridge builders” to the community, and to encourage an ongoing “Strategy” through prayerful relations.

Coffee with a Cop

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 13:17:25 GMT

Thank you to everyone who came out to La Barista Cafe on Wednesday April 23. It was great to see so many community members come out and connect over some coffee to talk about a shared vision for our community.

Box with a Cop

Thu, 10 Apr 2025 13:41:02 GMT

CPLC meeting - March 3, 2025

84575@tps.ca — Thu, 27 Feb 2025 18:09:09 GMT

Suppers for Seniors

84575@tps.ca — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 13:22:37 GMT

Supper for Seniors

53 Division NCOs and Auxiliaries braved the snow storm and delivered meals to Seniors.

Project Re-Cycle 2025

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 14:29:30 GMT

53 Division NCOs have started collecting bicycles for Project Re-Cycle for 2026!

Drop off bikes at 53 Division or the Gateway Bike Hub, or contact to arrange pick up.

First CPLC meeting of 2025

Tue, 14 Jan 2025 13:56:16 GMT

Cram-A_Cruiser

Wed, 18 Dec 2024 17:27:48 GMT

53 Division Auxiliaries host

Cram-A-Cruiser Toy Drive

53 Division Auxiliaries hosted a Cram-a-Cruiser Toy drive in partnership with Canadian Tire in support of Toy Mountain this past Saturday December 15th.

Special thank you to all the community members that supported the cause and helped fill 2 cruisers with a mountain of toys to make a positive impact on the lives of local families in need this holiday season.

Festive Holiday Fundraiser

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 12:39:03 GMT

53 Division Community Police Liaison Committee (CPLC) host Festive Holiday Fundraiser at BMO

The purpose of this event was to raise funds for the CPLC Student Scholarship Program at 53 Division. Additionally, it aimed to foste r community engagement between the police and the public.

We are thrilled to announce that the event was a resounding success, generating over $15,000 in support of our Student Scholarship program. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to everyone who attended our event, showing their commitment to the 53 Division Student Scholarship program.

We must emphasize that this event would not have been possible without the remarkable support of all our sponsors, community partners and especially all of our volunteers.

Coffee with Law Enforcement in Yorkville

84575@tps.ca — Mon, 26 Aug 2024 13:09:48 GMT

Thank you to everyone who came out to Starbucks on Saturday August 24th. It was great to see so many community members come out and connect over some coffee and treats to talk about a shared vision for our community.

CP Month

84575@tps.ca — Thu, 06 Jun 2024 13:33:18 GMT

53 Division Open House

84575@tps.ca — Wed, 15 May 2024 18:59:12 GMT

Save the Date

Bike With Us

84575@tps.ca — Wed, 15 May 2024 16:29:30 GMT

Smile Cookie Week

84575@tps.ca — Mon, 06 May 2024 11:31:49 GMT

Smile Cookie Week

The first-ever Smile Cookie campaign in 1996 raised funds to support Hamilton Children's Hospital. Since then, the annual charitable campaign has raised a total of more than $111 million for charities and community groups that are selected every year by Tim Hortons restaurant owners. Last year, Smile Cookie raised a record-breaking $19.7 million, supporting over 600 charities and community groups across Canada and in the United States. Recipients include local hospitals, community care organizations, food banks and schools.

53 Division NCOs volunteered at the newly opened Tim Horton's at Yonge and Yorkville, decorating cookies and promoting the campaign. #SmileCookie

Coffee with Law Enforcement

84575@tps.ca — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 11:02:33 GMT

Thank you to everyone who came out to Starbucks on Thursday April 18th. It was great to see so many community members come out and connect over some coffee and treats to talk about a shared vision for our community.

53 Division Prayer Walk

markt@beaconcreative.ca (Mark Tenaglia) — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 13:15:45 GMT

53 Division Prayer Walk

On April 11, 2024 53 Division participated in it's first Prayer Walk.

Out of Sight Out of Landfills

84575@tps.ca — Thu, 11 Apr 2024 14:55:02 GMT

A sustainable initiative “ Out of Sight Out of Landfills ” is happening at East York Town Centre for the month of April.

They are collecting eyeglasses (prescription / readers) and sunglasses that are no longer in use.

The drop off bin is located in center court.

This sustainable initiative is in partnership with the Lions Club of Canada. They will determine those that are usable or unusable, processed and place in inventory for distribution to optical missions around the world.

Coffee with a Cop

Tue, 02 Apr 2024 12:31:25 GMT

Coffee with a Cop

Thank you to everyone who came out to La Barista on Thursday October 28th. It was great to see so many community members come out and connect over some coffee and treats to talk about a shared vision for our community.

World Autism Awareness Day

Tue, 26 Mar 2024 13:12:45 GMT

World Autism Awareness day in Thorncliffe Park coming Tuesday April 2, 2024, 4 - 6 pm in R.V.Burgess park.

This year's theme declared by the United Nation is "Moving from surviving to thriving: importance of the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for autistic people to be able to thrive".

The focus is on Early Years intervention and Early Years Diagnosis, as this is very crucial and time-sensitive for kids to be able to diagnosed on-time and start receiving services asap .

Looking forward to a wonderful gathering for a good cause, supporting autism families in vibrant communities.

Bicycle Donations for Project Re-Cycle

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 13:04:10 GMT

53 Division NCOS are collecting donated bicycles from community members as well as from other Police officers. The bicycles will be fixed by Gateway Bike Hub at their facility, and the bicycles will be handed out to local residents through Project Re-Cycle at the end of May.

Student Leadership Bursary Awards

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 12:57:40 GMT

53 Division CPLC is excited to announce it is now accepting applications for the 2024 Student Leadership Bursary Awards.

Holiday High Tea

Tue, 12 Dec 2023 13:11:53 GMT

53 Division Community Policing Liaison Committee (CPLC) host First Fundraising High Tea at Parc Ave.

The purpose of this event was to raise funds for the CPLC Student Scholarship Program at 53 Division. Additionally, it aimed to foste r community engagement between the police and the public.

We are thrilled to announce that the event was a resounding success, generating over $8,000 in support of our Student Scholarship program. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to everyone who attended our event, showing their commitment to the 53 Division Student Scholarship program.

We must emphasize that this event would not have been possible without the remarkable support of all our sponsors, community partners and especially all of our volunteers.

Leaside Toy Drive

Thu, 23 Nov 2023 19:23:24 GMT

Leaside Toy Drive

53 Division NCOs with the support of local businesses and individuals collect toy donations to such a worthy cause of bringing smiles to hundreds children during this holiday season.

World Kindness Day 2023

Tue, 14 Nov 2023 18:00:54 GMT

World Kindness Day 2023

53 Division NCOs and Auxiliaries delivered meals to Seniors for World Kindness Day.

Crime Prevention Week

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 18:46:00 GMT

Crime Prevention Week 2023

On Monday, November 6, the Community Partnerships and Engagement Unit partnered with the Province and key organizations to announce the launch of Crime Prevention Week from TPS Headquarters.

The announcement led by Chief Demkiw, who will be joined by the Solicitor General Michael Kerzner, OACP Executive Director Jeff McGuire, Chair Ann Morgan TPSB, and Carly Kalish of Victim Services Toronto.

This year’s themes emphasize collaboration, resiliency, “awareness, engagement, and prevention”.

Crime Prevention Week provides an opportunity to showcase successful collaborative efforts between police services and community organizations. It emphasizes the importance of a partnered response to local crime and education initiatives.

#CPWeek2023

CPLC makes a donation to the Lancebotics Team

Tue, 07 Nov 2023 14:35:59 GMT

Lance botics

53 Division Officers and members of the CPLC visited the Lancebotics team at Leaside H.S and presented the team with a cheque to support their efforts to return to post-pandemic competition, representing the Leaside community, Toronto and Canada, at the Vex 2023 - 2024 competitions.

Coffee with Law Enforcement

Tue, 17 Oct 2023 12:11:15 GMT

Coffee with Law Enforcement Event

Thank you to everyone who came out to Starbucks on Friday October 13th. It was great to see so many community members come out and connect over some coffee and treats to talk about a shared vision for our community.

High Tea Fundraiser

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 17:38:08 GMT

The 53 Division CPLC is proud to

present our first Fundraiser of 2023.

Join us for an elegant high tea in support of the 53 Division Student Leadership Bursary Awards. Tickets are on sale until November 19th, 2023. Get Yours Today!

Run with Us

Tue, 10 Oct 2023 13:23:23 GMT

New 53 Division NCO

Running Program Launch

53 DIVISION OPEN HOUSE

Wed, 26 Apr 2023 17:19:51 GMT

53 Division 2023 Open House

Station Tours - Various Police Units on Display - Coffee and Treats - Face Painting

Come and meet your local Officers

Project Breezy

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 22:34:12 GMT

Gateway Bike Hub is a community project that aims at reducing waste in landfills by collecting and fixing bicycles that may otherwise end up at a local dump

Officers collected donated bicycles from community members as well as from other Police officers. The bicycles were fixed by Gateway Bike Hub, at their facility, and 85 bicycles were brought to Project Breezy and handed out to local residents. Officers were able to secure donated bicycle safety equipment from Canadian Tire which was also handed out during the event. Officers taught road and bicycle safety to all residents who received a bicycle.

World Kindness Day

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 18:28:21 GMT

Neighbourhood Officers from 53 Division participated in WORLD KINDNESS DAY on November 13 ^th 2022.

The organization HUMANITI provided fresh hot prepared meals for our team to delivery to the seniors in the Thorncliffe Park Community.

Youth Volunteers from the Thorncliffe Park Community, 53 NCO’s, 53 MCIT Officers, Auxiliary Officers attended and went door to door in an underprivileged building that houses only seniors.

The seniors were well aware of the event and pleasantly accepted the home style meals.

Meet The Trauma Dog

Thu, 12 Jan 2023 18:05:14 GMT

Meet Dandy the trauma dog. She is owned and handled by Victim Services Toronto, and has worked with TPS for about 8 years now. She’s usually supporting victims of crime in Court, and making visits to schools, but today she stopped by D53 to show some love to D Platoon. Her insta is @vstdandy.

Traffic stop on 401 leads to dozens of vehicle theft charges

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 13:52:49 GMT

Four people from the Montreal area are facing dozens of criminal charges linked to vehicle thefts, Ontario Provincial Police said Monday.

OPP officers pulled over two vehicles on Highway 401 eastbound near the Thousand Islands Bridge Sunday morning because of a traffic offence. According to an OPP news release, one of the vehicles had been reported stolen.

Three people between the ages of 19 and 21, all from Montreal, and a 31-year-old from Laval, Que. are each facing a slew of charges, some of which include theft of a motor vehicle, possession of break-in instruments, possessing automobile master key, mischief to computer data and possession of an imitation weapon for a dangerous purpose.

Accused are Kevin Cesar, 21, Iverson Brisson, 20, and Abelina Alceus Villegas, 19. Cesar is also charged with breach of probation and driving without a licence, among other offences and Alceus Villegas is facing a charge of obstructing a peace officer.

Colbert Aluc, 31, of Laval is also facing several charges including theft of a motor vehicle and mischief to computer data.

High-end vehicles with proximity keys are popular targets for thieves . Technology exists to copy or exploit the data that links the owner’s key to the vehicle, allowing thieves to simply unlock and start the car themselves. Police claim these thefts can take place in less than a minute.

Ottawa police said Monday that a man was hurt after confronting two would-be thieves who were trying to steal his SUV in a mall parking lot this weekend. Police have claimed that more than 1,000 vehicles have been reported stolen in Ottawa so far this year, including nearly 200 in November alone.

OPP said the four accused in this case have been held for bail hearings.

FULL LIST OF CHARGES

Kevin Cesar, 21, Iverson Brisson, 20, and Abelina Alceus Villegas, 19 are charged with:

Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000 - Criminal Code 354(1)(a)
Theft over $5000 of a motor vehicle - CC 334(a)
Conspiracy to commit indictable offence - CC 465(1)(c)
Possession of break in instruments - CC 351(1)
Possessing automobile master key - CC 353(1)(b)
Mischief to computer data, destroy or alter - CC 430(1.1)(a)
Mischief under $5000 - CC 430(4)
Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5000 - CC 354(1)(a)
Possession of weapon for dangerous purpose - CC 88
Possession of imitation weapon for dangerous purpose - CC 88

Cesar is further charged with:

Failure to comply with release order - CC 145(5)(a) - four counts
Fail to comply with probation order - CC 733.1(1) - four counts
Drive motor vehicle with no licence - Highway Traffic Act (HTA) 32(1)
Drive vehicle with cannabis readily available - Cannabis Control Act, 2017 (CCA) 12(1)

Alceus Villegas has also been charged with:

Obstruct Peace Officer, section 129(a) of the Criminal Code.

Brisson has been additionally charged with:

Two counts of breach of recognizance, section 811 of the Criminal Code.

Colbert Aluc, 31, has been charged with:

Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000 - CC 354(1)(a)
Mischief to computer data, destroy or alter - CC 430(1.1)(a)
Theft over $5000 of a motor vehicle - CC 334(a)
Mischief under $5000 - CC 430(4)
Conspiracy to commit indictable offence - CC 465(1)(c)
Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5000 - CC 354(1)(a)
Fail to comply with probation order - CC 733.1(1) - two counts
Possession of a schedule I substance, Cocaine - Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) 4(1)

Online buy/sell safety tips

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Tue, 22 Nov 2022 20:58:17 GMT

Buying and selling items online can save you time and make you money but there are ways to make it a safer experience. Here are some tips to help you stay safe when buying or selling items on online marketplaces.

Online Purchase Safety Tips

Conduct your transaction in person in a public place that is well populate and equipped with cameras.
Last minute changes to meeting arrangements is a red flag.
Never go to a buyer or sell something alone. Also no vehicle license plate numbers.
Safety in numbers.
Safest payment options are cash or E-transfers

Buyers

Inspect items before purchase.
Never provide a deposit for something that you have not seen in person.
If you locate property being sold that you believe to be stolen, call police at 416-808-2222 .

Sellers

Never deposit a check for more than the asking price and provide change if the check is fraudulent you will be out your item and the money.
Be mindful when taking pictures of items do not include personal identifiers in the background (examples include: license plate numbers, house numbers, and addressed mail).

I found my stolen property for sale online:

If you find your stolen property being sold online:

Take screenshots of the ad – ensure the ad # and any seller contact information is recorded
Have your proof of ownership ready
Contact police immediately at 416-808-2222 or come to a police station.

NEVER contact the suspect or arrange to meet the suspect yourself. For your safety and proper investigative measures, please let police officers take care of this.

Auto Crimes

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Wed, 05 Oct 2022 21:34:33 GMT

Vehicle crime can happen to anyone.

Any vehicle is susceptible.

By taking simple precautions, you can dramatically reduce the risk of vehicle theft or loss of property from vehicle.

AUTO SAFETY STARTS WITH YOU!

WHY VEHICLES ARE STOLEN

To sell the vehicle or parts - Often thieves will take your car out of the province or country. Identification numbers may be altered or removed, ownership certificates forged, parts sold or the vehicle repainted.
For transportation - Thieves will use your vehicle to get where they want to go and later abandon the vehicle. They may just drive it around to gain 'status' with their friends.
To commit other crimes - Vehicles are stolen and used in other crimes such as robberies, break and enters, drug dealing or drive-by shootings. For vehicle cloning -Vehicles are stolen, given a fraudulent identification number and then sold to unsuspecting persons who are defrauded of their money. Fraudulent vehicles will be located and seized by the Police.

HOW TO REDUCE THE RISK OF VEHICLE THEFT

When parking your vehicle :

Never leave a vehicle parked and running when you run an errand-even for a minute
Always, remove the keys and take them with you
Park in a well-lit, attended area if possible
Completely close and lock doors and windows
Turn your wheels towards the curb to make it harder to tow

When at home:

If you have a garage, use and lock it
Install a motion sensor light to light up your vehicles and garage
If you have a rear-wheel drive car, back into driveway
If you have a front-wheel drive car, park front end first
Always set the emergency brake
Don't leave the original ownership or insurance cards in the vehicle when unattended - make a photocopy of both sides of the documents to leave in your vehicle
Drop business cards or address labels inside doors to assist with vehicle identification

Other important tips:

Never hide a spare key in the vehicle, thieves know where to look
Be aware of your surroundings and drive with your doors locked
Be aware when purchasing a vehicle. If the deal sounds too good to be true ... it probably is a scam!

PREVENTING THEFT FROM YOUR VEHICLE

Never leave ANYTHING on display when you leave your vehicle. This includes purses left in the front seat when pumping gas and power chords to run and charge devices as these may attract thieves to your vehicle.
Consider an alarm - Consider installing an alarm if you regularly leave your vehicle in accessible unattended places such as a parking garage or a commuter parking lot. Remember to always take anti-theft precautions, regardless of whether you have an alarm as an alarm can only be expected to improve your chances of not being a victim.
Tips when parking your vehicle:
Remove any item that you do not want to lose from your vehicle as hiding them only discourages theft - REMEMBER, they CAN'T steal what's not there!
Lock all parcels and shopping bags in the trunk of your vehicle.

INVEST IN VEHICLE PROTECTION IF POSSIBLE

Have an Ignition Kill Switch installed - The ignition kill switch will prevent your vehicle from starting without it being turned on. As only you will know its hidden location, it is a good deterrent against thieves. In the event that you have this switch installed, contact your insurer and ask for a discount.
Window Etchings - Have your vehicle's windows etched with your Vehicle Identification Number. This is a visual deterrent that is costly for thieves to change.
Visible Steering Wheel Lock - A visual deterrent to a thief.
Consider installing a Vehicle Tracking Systems -A vehicle tracking system uses GPS technology to locate and track your vehicle.

IF YOUR VEHICLE IS STOLEN:

Report the theft to the Police immediately. -

You should be ready to report the following vehicle information:

Year and make, model, colour(s)
Licence number
Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
Serial numbers of all special equipment
Special markings - dents, scratches, other damage etc.

If your accessories are stolen, the Police will need specific information to identify these items.

To report a crime anonymously,

call Crime Stoppers at:

1-800-222-8477(TIPS)

or online at: www.222tips.com

Police Week 2022

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Tue, 17 May 2022 13:44:17 GMT

Helping Build Safer Com munities

During Police Week, the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police ( OACP ) encourages all police services to highlight their service, people, and many accomplishments. Starting in 1970, Police Week coincides with Peace Officers Memorial Day, which is recognized internationally on May 15. We want to celebrate community partnerships. All of us – police, communities, government, businesses, and ordinary citizens – must work together when it comes to public safety, crime prevention, and community engagement.

This year's kick off was held at Driftwood Community Recreation Centre and had many speakers:

Master of Ceremonies - Mr. Joe Couto, Director, Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police

Toronto City Council Remarks - Mayor John Tory

Toronto Police Services Board Remarks TPSB - Chair, Mr. Jim Hart

Toronto Police Service Remarks - A/Deputy Chief Kim Yeandle

Guest Speaker - Mr. Jeff McGuire, Executive Director, Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police

Keynote Speaker - Mr. Mark Tenaglia, Civilian Co-Chair, 31 Division CPLC (Community Police Liaison Committee)

This year’s provincial theme is “ Your Police Services: Helping Build Safer Communities ”. The theme provides an opportunity to use social media, or other online platforms, to showcase the great work of police services across Ontario. It also emphasizes the importance of ongoing collaboration between police and community partners to support a holistic approach to service delivery and response efforts.

Human Trafficking

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Thu, 21 Apr 2022 18:04:52 GMT

Human Trafficking Can Be Hard to See

In this modern-day form of slavery, traffickers can maintain control over a victim in many different ways. It might be physical or psychological, through manipulation, threats, and the abuse of trust and power.

Victims may be trafficked by someone they know: a former or current partner, family member, friend, co-worker, or boss.

Better understanding the facts about human trafficking, who is at risk, how traffickers recruit and exploit victims, and what signs to look for is a major step in helping to fight this widespread and often invisible crime.

Learn more about the Facts and Myths of human trafficking .

Resources

CAN YOU SEE ME?

A global awareness campaign. Can You See Me? takes real trafficking scenarios, depicted by actors, to provide examples of what trafficking may look like.

Careers in The Unionized Construction Industry

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Wed, 20 Apr 2022 13:01:20 GMT

Learn how you can succeed in technical training and on the job. Find out more about the benefits of starting a profile.

Construction Training & Apprenticeship Ontario (CTAO) provides a one-stop shop of educational tools and materials for applicants pursuing pre-apprenticeship and apprenticeship opportunities in the skilled trades.

Learn how you can succeed in technical training and on the job. Find out more about the benefits of starting a profile.

Tomorrow’s Trades is a workforce development program that equips individuals interested in pursuing a career in skilled trades with the construction sector essential skills needed to become a high-quality apprentice.

Explore the Trades

There are many career options! Do you know what trade is a good fit for you? Check out the many diverse professions here.

Auto Theft

Fri, 25 Mar 2022 14:06:14 GMT

On average, a car is stolen every 6 minutes in Canada.

Why Auto Theft Is a Serious Threat

Every year, people are injured or die as a result of auto theft. When it's in the hands of a thief, a stolen car is like a loaded gun. Vehicle thieves have absolutely no regard for public safety and the rules of the road.

Auto theft is not a victimless crime or just a property crime. Auto theft costs all Canadians millions per year, if one considers health care, court, policing, legal and out-of-pocket costs such as deductibles. Each year, IBC publishes a list of the Top 10 Most Stolen Cars – see if your car is a potential target.

Fighting Crime Involves Many Partners

Auto theft defies all boundaries – jurisdictional, political, geographical and administrative. It is more than just an insurance crime or a policing problem.

The fight against auto theft requires the cooperation and involvement of many partners. It starts with automobile owners and includes the law enforcement community, automobile manufacturers, dealers of new and used cars, salvage operators, car repairers, automobile insurers, theft deterrent system manufacturers and installers, licensing and customs authorities, and the judicial system.

Tips to prevent auto theft

Even with today's tech-savvy thieves, there are a number of steps Canadians can take to help protect themselves from becoming a victim of auto theft.

Don't leave a keyless entry fob in a vehicle or unprotected at the front entrance of your home. Thieves can use wireless transmitters to intercept the signal, giving them access to the vehicle. Consider storing fobs in a protective box or bag that blocks the signal.
Install an immobilizing device which prevents thieves from bypassing the ignition and hot-wiring a vehicle. This can include devices that require wireless ignition authentication or starter, ignition and fuel pump disablers.
Install a tracking device that emits a signal to police or a monitoring station if a vehicle is stolen.
Don't make your vehicle an easy target:
Never leave a vehicle running when unattended.
Lock the doors and close all windows when parked.
Make sure to park in well-lit areas or in the garage.
Use a visible or audible device that shows thieves a vehicle is protected.
Consider using a deterrent like a steering wheel or brake pedal lock.
Don't leave personal information, like insurance and ownership documents, in the glove box when parked.

Source article: Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC)

Gun Seized by Quick Thinking Officers

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 16:05:09 GMT

A pair of officers identified and arrested an armed man after being called to a fight.

On Sunday March 6, officers from 31 Division were called after a fight broke out at 1230 Sheppard Ave. W. near Downsview Park.

Inspector Don Theriault said the first officers on scene, Constables Christopher Frazer and Nathan Duke, scanned the crowd for any dangers as they approached.

“We are one of the busiest divisions for shooting occurrences,” he said. “That exposure gives our officers the experience and ability to approach chaotic scenes with a great deal of confidence and a heightened sense of awareness. It was this awareness that allowed our officers to key in on an individual who was displaying the characteristics of an armed person."

He said the officers then saw the man separate himself from the crowd of people and discard a gun.

"They immediately engaged him, safely placing him under arrest and seizing the gun. Now we have one less gun on the street and that means we stopped a shooting in the future. It’s a team effort and we couldn’t be more proud of our officers.”

The man, who was wearing a ski mask, resisted arrest before being taken into custody.

A semi-automatic gun with a fully loaded magazine was recovered.

Daniel Hauntly, 23, is facing eight charges, including possession of a firearm.

River Ice Conditions

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Sun, 06 Mar 2022 16:16:00 GMT

Please note a warmer weather pattern is forecasted for the Greater Toronto Area this weekend and into next week.

These conditions are favourable for the further break-up, melting and movement of any remaining river ice along watercourses.

There are currently a number of locations with either active ice jams (with no current flooding) or areas with partial ice accumulations.

The specific locations in TRCA’s jurisdiction, that we are currently aware of within the Humber River, Don River and Duffins Creek are listed below.

Humber River, Bolton
Ice jams north of Hickman St along Glasgow Rd, as well as south of Hickman St.
Partial ice accumulation between Humberlea Rd and King St at Old Kind Rd
Humber River, Vaughan
Ice jam north of Broda Dr towards Major Mackenzie Rd
Ice jam south of Rutherford Rd just east of Highway 27
Humber River, Toronto
Sheet ice present at Old Mill Rd to Bloor St, as well as at the Toronto Humber Yacht Club
Don River mouth, Toronto
Minor ice and debris accumulation at Cherry St bridge
Duffins Creek, Ajax
Ice jam west of Church St, upstream of Duffins Creek weir
Partial ice blocks present, east of Church St between Highway 401 and Bayly St.

Winter Safety

Sun, 16 Jan 2022 23:15:13 GMT

Be safe this winter and remember the following tips:

Ice is never 100% safe. Conditions are not being monitored and ice may be unsafe.
Keep family and pets away from all bodies of water.
Stay away from frozen reservoirs and ice around dams and channels and avoid all recreational activities in or around water, unless at an officially designated municipal facility fit for that purpose.
Obey any safety signage that has been posted.
If an ice jam is posing an immediate risk to life and property, call 911.

TRCA also reminds residents about safety around dams. Dam operators often lower water levels in reservoirs during winter and spring. Beware of thin ice that may develop due to dam operations. Learn more about dam safety.

Please read RIVER ICE CONDITIONS OUTLOOK for more information.

Noise Bylaw

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Sun, 16 Jan 2022 22:59:42 GMT

The Noise Bylaw provides standards for noise in Toronto. This includes decibel limits and time restrictions for certain types of noise. Use this quick reference to understand the different types of noise regulated by the bylaw. If you wish to review the exact wording in the bylaw, you can find it on the City of Toronto website.

Amplified sound

Amplified sound is generally sound coming from a loudspeaker that amplifies music, voices or other sounds. This can include sounds from night clubs, bars, restaurants,

cafes, patios or concerts:

The bylaw has limits for amplified sound levels, which are measured at the point the sound is heard.
Bylaw Enforcement Officers can measure the sound levels outside or inside your property and determine whether the sound levels are in compliance with regulations.
There are lower sound level limits within an indoor living area and at night.

Construction noise

Clearly audible sound from the operation of equipment used in construction such as erection of new structures, repair, demolition, land clearing, excavating, laying of pipes, application of concrete, installation of equipment etc. are not allowed during prohibited hours:

Construction noise is not allowed from 7 p.m. overnight to 7 a.m. and not until 9 a.m. on Saturdays.
Clearly audible sound is also not allowed all day Sunday and statutory holidays.

Stationary sources

Stationary sources are devices that do not move from place to place. These types of devices include air conditioners, exhaust systems, fans and generators not used for

construction operations. This does not include construction or transportation noise.

Sound levels from stationary sources cannot exceed the sound level limit set in the bylaw or the limit found in provincial noise pollution control guidelines.
This does not apply to sound from a stationary source that is in compliance with a provincial environmental compliance approval.

Unreasonable and persistent noise

Unreasonable noise is any noise that disturbs the peace, comfort or convenience of a reasonable person. Unreasonable noise does not include common household or workplace sounds such as noise from furniture being moved, children playing or people in conversation.

Persistent noise is continuously heard for a period of ten minutes or more or intermittently over a period of one hour or more.

Unreasonable and persistent noise is not allowed at any time.
Noise has to be both unreasonable and persistent to be an offence.

Power devices

Power devices include equipment used to maintain lawns, including chainsaws, lawn mowers, leaf blowers, grass trimmers or other similar equipment. A power device does not include equipment used to remove snow or ice.

Noise is not permitted from 7 p.m. overnight to 7 a.m. and not until 9 a.m. on Saturdays, Sundays and statutory holidays.
These rules do not apply to devices used to maintain golf courses or public parks and to snow removal devices.

Loading and unloading

This includes sounds from loading, unloading, delivering, packing or unpacking any containers, products or materials.

Noise is not permitted from 11 p.m. overnight to 7 a.m. and not until 9 a.m. on Saturdays, Sundays and statutory holidays.

Motor vehicle

This includes automobiles, motorcycles, motor assisted bicycles and other vehicles. The bylaw does not apply to street cars and other specified vehicles.

Clearly audible noise from vehicle repairs, rebuilding, modifying or testing is not permitted from 9 p.m. overnight to 7 a.m. and not until 9 a.m. on Saturdays, Sundays and statutory holidays.
Motorcycle noise cannot exceed the approved standards in the bylaw.
Unnecessary noise, such as engine revving and tire squealing that is clearly audible at the point where the sound is heard, is not permitted.

Noise exempt from the bylaw

Government work and noise due to safety measures are exempt from the bylaw.
Government work is the construction, rehabilitation or maintenance work conducted by the City, Province of Ontario, Government of Canada and any of its agencies or agents.
This applies to the operation of motor vehicles and equipment actually engaged in the government construction work.
Safety measures include bells or sirens operated by police, fire, paramedic services and bells or whistles operated by rail or transit services.

Applying for noise exemption permits

You can apply for a noise exemption permit for any event or activity that may not be able to comply with the noise limitations in the bylaw.
You will need to submit an application form along with supporting documents, at least four weeks in advance.
For more information visit: toronto.ca/noiseexemption

Submitting noise complaints

If you have a concern, consider speaking with those responsible for making the noise to give them an opportunity to correct the issue.
If this approach does not work, you can call 311 or submit a service request online at toronto.ca/311
Please note that the Municipal Licensing and Standards Division does not respond to demonstrations, noisy parties or noise from people acting disorderly, such as yelling, screaming and fighting. To report these types of noise, call the Toronto Police Service non-emergency number at 416-808-2222. For emergencies, call 911.

For more information, visit toronto.ca/noise

Read the bylaw at toronto.ca/legdocs/municode/1184_591.pdf

Firearms Seized by the Hard Work of Toronto Police Officers

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Thu, 30 Dec 2021 14:32:56 GMT

These are some of the firearms seized by the hard work of Toronto Police officers who have worked very hard throughout 2021 to keep you and your family safe. Many times risking their own lives. We have all seen and heard what these guns can do when in the wrong hands of criminals.

We all want Toronto to be the safest place to live, work and play and to accomplish this, we must continue to work together, as a team, to fight against gang and gun violence. Too many young lives lost and too many families left mourning and in pain after losing a loved one.

Policing can be fun and very rewarding but often times also very painful and traumatic. That also goes for the residents of communities hit with the most gun violence. We see the beauty of community unity but also the pain and suffering many local people experience, including children.

Photos from Twitter: TPSGunsSeized

For 2022, please do your part by calling police or to remain anonymous contact Toronto Crime Stoppers (1800-222-TIPS).

Your actions can save lives.

Important Information for Break and Enter Victims

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Wed, 08 Dec 2021 22:45:27 GMT

How to feel safe and secure in your home again.

As a break and enter victim, it is normal to feel less secure about your home. Your concerns about safety and security can be greatly reduced by reading this card and taking the advice before you re-secure your home.

BREAK & ENTER BASICS

Most entries happen during the day when the homeowners are not home. Thieves are attracted to homes that look like the owner is away (papers or snow on the drive, house not lit at night).

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO IN THE NEXT FEW HOURS

It is important that you address and correct anything that may have given the thief the impression that you were away. This includes putting at least one light on a timer which is visible from the front of the house.

Next, it is critical that you IMPROVE your security while making any necessary repairs. For doors, this means installing a good quality, 1 inch dead bolt lock with a 4 hole (or more) “security strike plate” installed with at least 2 ½ inch screws that penetrate the wall studs.

For sliding windows and patio doors this means installing a secondary locking device or placing a stick in the bottom track and in the maintenance gap located on the top of the frame of the sliding part of the window or door. Once this is done, you can reassure your family that the house is now more secure than it was prior to the break-in.

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO IN THE NEXT TWO DAYS

Lock any gates in and around your property
Tell neighbours to watch for suspicious activity
Hide/lock up valuables
Check out sightlines around your property
Remove/reduce overgrown shrubbery in front ofaccessible windows and doors

BEFORE CONSIDERING AN ALARM

Some people feel that alarms will protect them. It is important to remember that most burglaries happen during the day when home owners are away.

If you still want to consider an alarm, have the provider install a bell box with flashing strobe light on a corner of the house that is visible to the street. This will discourage thieves and potentially alert neighbours which may result in a higher priority being assigned to a call.

Know Your Neighbours

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Sun, 05 Dec 2021 17:48:42 GMT

Neighbourhood safety is a shared responsibility that is as simple as getting to know and WATCH OUT for your neighbour. Report any criminal and/or suspicious activity when you see it happen in your neighbourhood.

KEEP YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD SAFE

Take the Know Your Neighbour Test:

Do you know the first name of at least 5 different neighbours?
Would you be able to tell police the ADDRESS of the house BEHIND you, in the event you witnessed a break-in?
Would your back door NEIGHBOUR know YOUR ADDRESS, in the event that your home was broken into?

If you answered NO to any of these questions, use the chart on the back of this card - to get to: KNOW YOUR NEIGHBOURS

Download this card and introduce yourself to your neighbours by giving them a copy with your information on it in exchange for theirs.

SECURE YO UR HOME • BE ALERT • BE AWARE

IF YOU SEE A CRIME IN PROGRESS: 9-1-1 TO REPORT SUSPICIOUS/UNUSUAL ACTIVITY

416-808-2222

Simple Solution to Stall Thieves

Tue, 05 Oct 2021 01:36:51 GMT

With almost 200 vehicles thefts in 31 Division over the summer, mostly among vehicles with keyless ignition systems, police and Toronto Crime Stoppers have teamed up to encourage drivers to use key fob signal blockers.

Project Lockdown is intended to create community awareness of an effective solution to protect and block the signal between their key fob and vehicle.

“This is something that’s simple, but truly innovative,” said Chief James Ramer, of the education initiative. “It is demonstrating how we are using technology to prevent crime and keep our communities safe.”

Keyless ignition systems come with a fob that transmits a unique low-frequency signal to the car's computer system, which then validates that the correct signal has been sent and allows someone to push a button on the dashboard or console to unlock the doors and start the engine.

Thieves exploit this technology by using repeaters at their front door to extract that signal to steal vehicles without ever entering someone’s home.

Placing key fobs in signal blocking or Faraday pouches and boxes is a good habit to get motorists used to, rather than hanging them by a front door.

Constable Lauren Vanspall, of 31 Division, examined the car theft problem from a crime prevention perspective and reached out to Toronto Crime Stoppers who had been promoting the use of signal blockers.

“This is a true example of partnership and it’s addressing a problem that’s of great importance to the community and will really contribute to helping people feel safer,” Chief Ramer said.

Inspector Keith Smith, of 31 Division, said his officers have been proactive in taking steps to address the problem.

“Our Neighbourhood Community Officers are out in the community talking to people and making them aware of the issue and there are patrols in neighbourhoods we have identified through intelligence where autos are being stolen,” he said. “We are doing our best to address the problem and this initiative will definitely help. It’s another tool that citizens can use to prevent their vehicles from being stolen.”

The Toronto Police Service and Toronto Crime Stoppers are asking vehicle owners to find a signal-blocking solution that meets their needs, as there are a variety of options on the market.

KYCS (Keep Your Community Safe) Global has partnered with Toronto Crime Stoppers to offer a $20 signal-blocking pouch .

“Most people go home and put their keys beside their door or on the counter by the door,” said Jason Lyall, the Vice-President of KYCS. “Thieves use key fob repeaters to extract that signal and then use a separate agnostic fob to get into your vehicle. You can simply drop your keys in this pouch every night and block the signal from escaping. We really hope we can combat vehicle theft through the RFID repeater technology.”

Keeping yourself and your family safe

Wed, 18 Aug 2021 13:18:14 GMT

When it comes to the security of our homes and businesses, it is easy to fall into the trap of complacency. Many people assume that because they have never been victimized while at home or at their place of business, that their security is adequate, but that is not always the case.

Developed in the 1970s, Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) is a set of principles that work to deter crime and increase the overall perception of safety by examining the design, intended function, and current usage of physical space. This is accomplished using three principles: Natural Surveillance, Access Control, and Territoriality.

When users of any given space can see one another, crime is naturally deterred. So for homes and businesses, implementing Natural Surveillance means ensuring that sightlines are good - both in and out of the property – so users feel like they are being watched.

Although suitable for privacy, windows with heavy drapery, frosted glass, or large signage affixed to them obscure the views both ways and create opportunities for potential perpetrators to move around the property unseen. Removing these barriers is a quick way to create the perception of surveillance and increase the safety of your home or business.

The second principle of Access Control focuses on designing a physical space so that users behave in a manner that is expected. Ask yourself the following questions about your space:

What is the intended use of this space?
Are there areas in this space where trespassing or crime occurs?
Are there areas of transition between public and private space?
Are private areas easily accessible to trespassers?

By asking these questions, you can quickly get a sense of whether or not you need to improve the access control to your property.

For transitional areas on your property, clearly define each area using low fencing, pathways or a combination of the two so that users get a sense of where one space ends, and the other begins. Additionally, secure private spaces from trespassers using high quality locks and doorframe reinforcements, and always close and lock windows when you are away from your property.

The final principle of Territoriality is all about “owning” your space. When people believe that a space is cared for, they are more likely to respect that space, and less likely to engage in criminal activity/ disorderly behaviour there as well. Create a sense of territoriality by ensuring your yard and lawn are well kept, landscaping stays trimmed, and the exterior of your home/business looks clean and maintained.

Integrating the three principles of CPTED is not only easy, but also proven to be effective at deterring crime.

For more information, please contact:

Constable Lauren Vanspal
Crime Prevention/Community Relations Officer
Toronto Police Service, 31 Division
416-808-3133

Senior Safety/Elder Abuse

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Wed, 21 Apr 2021 19:54:10 GMT

WHAT IS ELDER ABUSE?

Elder abuse is any action, or inaction, occurring in a relationship where there is an expectation of trust, which causes harm or distress to an older person.

It is estimated that between four to ten percent of the population are victims of elder abuse, which means up to 42,000 seniors may be victims of elder abuse in Toronto.

SENIOR SAFETY STARTS WITH YOU

Elder abuse may happen to any older person regardless of gender, culture, race, financial status, and mental or physical condition.

Vulnerable persons are also a target for abuse due to an increasing trend encouraging independent community living.

The elderly and the vulnerable are hesitant to report their victimization for a variety of reasons. In conjunction with the community agencies serving the elderly and vulnerable, the Toronto Police Service is working to encourage the reporting of abuse. Crime prevention and public awareness are necessary to reduce the fear of crime and improve the quality of life for seniors.

The goals of the Toronto Police Service regarding the abuse of elderly or vulnerable persons are to:

reduce the incidence of the abuse of the elderly or vulnerable persons in the community.
investigate all occurrences thoroughly and bring offenders to justice.
ensure the safety of victims including referrals to other community partners.

REASONS WHY ABUSE IS SELDOM REPORTED

Victim lives in fear of reprisal from the offender
Victim wants to maintain the relationship with their family member and/or fears being removed from their home.
Victim does not recognize that they are in an abusive relationship
Victim is unaware of their rights and available support services
Victim is unable to report due to physical frailty, cognitive impairment, or language barrier.
Outsiders believe that it is a family matter and of do not want to get involved.

THERE ARE FOUR TYPES OF ABUSE OR NEGLECT:

1. Financial - misuse of the Power of Attorney or where someone has been dishonest in the use of a senior’s money or a senior’s assets. Indicators of financial abuse include:

Elder has signed/changed documents (Power of Attorney, new will, etc) when unable to comprehend the transaction
Lost jewelry, silverware or other valuables
Change in level of care/absence of required aides (walker, glasses etc.
Unexplained/Irregular withdrawals from senior’s account
Sharing an older person’s home without paying fairly for expenses

2. Emotional/Psychological - an action or comment which would cause emotional anguish, fear or diminishing self-esteem. Indicators of emotional / psychological abuse include:

Agitation or Fear
Depression/Denial
Helplessness/Hesitation to talk openly

3. Physical - any act of violence causing injury or physical discomfort (this includes sexual assault and pharmacological abuse). Indicators of physical abuse include:

Cuts, bruises, burns or welts
Unexplained injuries or broken bones
Poor skin condition
Not seeking medical attention when warranted

4. Neglect - the failure of any person having care or custody of older adult to meet his/her needs when the older person is unable to meet those needs themselves. Indicators include:

Inadequate clothing, poor skin condition or hygiene
History of accidents or injuries and/or untreated medical condition, injury, dehydration, malnourished
Lack of needed medical items (e.g. glasses, false teeth, cane or walker)/lack of access to medical attention

The abuse of elderly persons is a growing concern to the Toronto Police Service due to an increasing seniors’ population and its reliance on caregivers to maintain levels of independence. It is estimated that between four to ten percent of the population are victims of elder abuse. In Toronto, seniors make up nearly 15% of the population, which means up to 40,000 seniors are potential victims of elder abuse.

PREVENTING ELDER ABUSE - CRIME PREVENTION TIPS

Whether you are living in a private home or an institution, know your rights and ask a lawyer, public trustee or trusted professional for financial or legal advice.
If you choose to appoint a Power of Attorney, for either finances or healthcare, choose someone trustworthy, and understand the authorities and responsibilities you are giving them.
Familiarize yourself with your financial situation use caution if lending money to others.
Have your cheques deposited directly into your bankaccount.
Be aware of available support services in your community.
Avoid social isolation; stay connected and engaged.

For emotional support contact The Distress Centre at 416-408-HELP (4357)

Home Unit Takeovers

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Thu, 08 Apr 2021 19:24:34 GMT

What is a home unit to takeover?

"...A situation in which a legitimate tenant or home owner finds themselves unsafe, physically, financially or psychologically, because of the presence of people in their home that they may or may not be able to remove."

- Crime Prevention Ottawa

"...A situation in which vulnerable tenants are forced to accommodate unwanted guests in their homes. During HUTS, vulnerable tenants allow people into their homes to fulfill unmet social, economic, and personal needs. In the process the tenant is threatened physically, financially or psychologically."

- The Dream Team HUT Taskforce

How do Home Unit Takeovers happen?

The victims of a Home Unit Takeover are specifically targeted by the perpetrators. They become familiar with one another and develop a degree of trust. The victims allow the perpetrators in their home several times but then begin to have a difficult time getting them to leave.

The perpetrators may explain that they need to stay over for a short period of time due to personal hardship, but then slowly begin to make themselves at home.

Before long, the victims find themselves in a situation where their unit has been taken over and the perpetrators refuse to leave. Sometimes the victims will experience violence, theft and other forms of abuse by the perpetrators.

Who are the victims?

The victims of a Home Unit Takeover are usually people with a form of vulnerability:

Substance addiction
Physical or mental health issues
Low income
Social isolation
Persons of advanced age.

Who are the perpetrators?

The perpetrators in a Home Unit Takeover are often known to the victims; they could be family

members, friends, neighbours or simply just someone from the neighbourhood.

We are here to help!

In the past, law enforcement, housing organizations, landlords and others involved with housing were not as aware of Home Unit Takeovers as they are today. Victims would sometimes suffer consequences such as evictions, financial loss and even face criminal charges.

Today, the focus is on assisting victims and ensuring their safety and well-being. The Toronto Police Service is committed to assisting all victims of crime including those affected by such a serious invasion of privacy. Everyone has the right to be safe at home.

Who can help

Thefts from/of vehicles

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Tue, 23 Mar 2021 21:28:35 GMT

Let's talk vehicles. A lot of us hav e them, but many of us also take for granted how valuable of a target they can be.

Vehicles are a highly prized commodity to thieves for a number of reasons, such as:

to sell as a whole, or for parts
to use for general transportation
to use for transportation to commit crimes
for vehicle cloning, where they are then resold

Don't make yo ur vehicle a target to thieves unnecessarily. Here are some crime prevention tips to help you keep your vehicle secure and to lower the chances of your vehicle being targeted:

1) When parking your vehicle, turn off the ignition, lock the steering wheel (crank the wheel to either the left or right until it clicks) and take the keys with you. Choose areas to park where there is good lighting and video surveillance, if possible. Ensure your doors are locked and your windows are up.

2) At home, park your vehicle in a well-lit area of the driveway or street, or if you have a garage install motion-activated lighting inside so that any persons moving around inside it are illuminated. Although you must have your insurance and vehicle registration on you at all times while driving the vehicle, it's a safer choice to keep it in your wallet or purse and not in the vehicle, so that if your vehicle is stolen, they can't fraudulently register it to someone else without your consent.

3) Remove all valuables from your vehicle. Don't make your vehicle appealing by leaving cash, shopping bags or other valuables in plain sight inside your vehicle. If you must leave your valuables in the vehicle, place them in the trunk and lock it before leaving your vehicle.

4) Never leave your car running with the keys inside. You wouldn't leave your front door wide open for strangers to walk into, so why would you leave your car idling unlocked for someone to come steal?

Lastly, for o wner's of vehicles with a keyless fob ignition, be aware that the signal transmitted from your remote to your vehicle can be copied and used to steal your car in less than 30 seconds. This type of vehicle theft (called relay theft) is quite common and easily done with just a laptop or computer device and the signal from your key fob. A car thief only needs to be a few meters away from the fob to do it, meaning you could be walking away from your vehicle with the key in your pocket and have it stolen from right behind you. Here are some tips to prevent relay theft:

1) Protect the security of your vehicle by keeping your key fobs far away from any doors or windows in your home that a thief could walk up to, or if you must keep them close to the door, place them inside a metal box or signal blocking pouch (faraday bag) to prevent the signal from being transmitted.

2) Check to see if the key fob can be shut off. This is not available for all models, but it's worth checking into.

3) Invest in a good old fashioned steering wheel lock to deter thieves. A stolen signal wont do much good if they can't drive the car!

4) Ensure your vehicles' software is updated. You can check this in your vehicles' settings menu or check with your vehicle dealer when you bring it in for a service.

Break & Enter Prevention

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Thu, 18 Mar 2021 14:53:30 GMT

Residential “Break-Ins” Are Typically “Crimes Of Opportunity”

While it is common for victims to feel a sense of violation, burglars generally have little, if any, personal knowledge of the people who live there. You can minimize your risk by practicing the personal safety and crime prevention strategies outlined in this article.

DETECTION IN YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD

Keep your ears and eyes open for suspicious vehicles and people around your home.
Do not confront possible suspects.
Record the license plate numbers and description of suspicious vehicles.
Record detailed descriptions of occupants of suspicious vehicles.
Report your concerns and observations immediately to the Police.

REDUCING YOUR RISK

Mark your property with a Trace Identified pen ( www.traceidentifiedcom ) or a unique identifier. This may discourage theft of valuables and will provide an easy way to identify stolen property.
Record the contents of your home or cottage (including serial number) on paper or make a video recording and download it to a safe and easily retrieved place that is unlikely to be lost or stolen.
Consider installing a home security system.
Do not announce your absence on an answering machine or through social media (e.g. Facebook).
Check identification of sales and service people. Use the phone number in the phone book or on the website, not a number the person at the door provides.
Don’t hide keys in secret places. Instead leave a duplicate with a friend or trusted neighbour.

IF A CRIME HAS OCCURRED

Emergency Services (9-1-1) should be called if there is a crime in progress or an immediate threat to the safety of persons or property.
If you arrive at your home and suspect there has been a break-in do NOT enter - the criminal may still be inside.
Go immediately to a neighbour and call the Police.
Do NOT touch anything or clean up until the Police have inspected for evidence.
Note the license number of any suspicious vehicle.
Note the description of any suspicious person(s).

PROTECTING YOUR HOME

Make sure exterior doors are solid core wood or metal.
Install a good quality deadbolt lock on the door and a minimum four-hole security strike plate on your door frame. Use screws that are a minimum two inches in length, and longer where possible, so that they penetrate the main (unseen) structure that supports the door frame.
Secure sliding glass doors with commercially available bars or locks, or put a wooden dowel or broom handle in the door track. Burglars look for sliding glass doors because they are the easiest to open.
Keep garage and tool shed locked. Don’t give a burglar the resources to break into your home.
Remove all obstructions in your yard that could conceal a burglar breaking into your house.
Limit access to out of reach windows, lower roofs, second story windows and balconies. Lock up ladders and other objects that can be used as platforms whenever possible. Watch for large, overhanging tree limbs that may provide a means of access.
Ask a trusted neighbour to use your driveway or parking space when leaving the house for extended periods. If you are away, make sure that your residence looks like it is occupied. Have the sidewalks shoveled, mail collected, grass cut etc. Set the lights to come on and off at different intervals.
Make “would-be” thieves visible, install motion lights or leave an exterior light on to illuminate entranceways and rear yards.

ALWAYS LET THEM KNOW IF SOMEONE’S HOME

Since most residential break and enters happen during the day time when the homeowner is not home, it is important to realize that there is little chance of you encountering a burglar provided you do not do anything to hide the fact that you are home if someone knocks on your door. It is therefore important that you respond to all door knocks by speaking through a locked door unless you recognize the person. This includes training your children to safely respond to the door knock by having them let you know that someone is there or speaking through a locked door advising the person that you are busy.

In the event that someone acts suspiciously – this includes asking for someone who doesn’t live there – call Police.

To report a crime anonymously, call Crime Stoppers at: 1-800-222-8477(TIPS) or online at: www.crimestoppers.com

Distraction Theft

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Mon, 15 Mar 2021 14:25:47 GMT

Who is the target of distraction theft?

Victims of distraction theft are often chosen because they are elderly, trusting, and may speak little or no English.

The offenders generally target people who are walking or sitting alone in public or on their own property. The offenders look for exposed jewellery or may just assume their target is likely wearing it.

HOW DOES THE OFFENDER APPROACH THE VICTIM?

The suspects generally travel as a group, in a vehicle or on foot, usually with a male, female and sometimes a toddler. This makes the suspects seem less suspicious. They may drive or walk around residential neighbourhoods, shopping malls, parks or approach you at bank machines where they will distract you by spraying you with ketchup or mustard.

They may even flatten your tire as a pretense to get you to stop your vehicle, where they will take advantage of this situation to offer “help” as an excuse to get close to you and your jewellery.

The suspect then walks away leaving the victim confused, not realizing that their property has been taken.

The main property targeted by distraction theft offenders is expensive jewellery. However, wallets, cell phones and purse contents are also vulnerable to this type of theft.

REDUCE THE RISK OF BEING A VICTIM

Avoid showy/flashy displays of jewelry.
Take the safest route possible. Avoid short cuts and deserted areas; try to keep to well lit and populated streets. Walk on the side of the street that gives you the best view.
Walk with a purpose and be alert/aware of your surroundings.
If you are suspicious of someone and they are not leaving you alone after you have asked them to, draw attention to yourself by yelling “stop following me” or “leave me alone”.
DO NOT LET THEM TOUCH YOU.
If you do not feel safe or are in need of assistance, flag down a passerby, car or taxi.

IF YOU ARE A VICTIM OR WITNESS OF DISTRACTION THEFT

If you realize that you have been a victim or witness of distraction theft and the suspect is still there or in sight, for your safety, DO NOT CHASE OR FOLLOW THE SUSPECT.

Call 9-1-1, the Police emergency number, immediately. The faster the Police are able to respond, the better the chances the suspect(s) will be arrested.
Try to memorize suspect(s) information including physical and clothing descriptions, especially tattoos, scars and other prominent features, and any suspect vehicle information or description. This is very important information when the Police arrive and the suspects are no longer on scene.
Keep records of your valuables and take photos. Note all serial numbers, the quality/value, engravings and distinguishing markings. Keep that information in a safe place at home. This information can help the Police identify and recover your property.
If your valuables do not have serial numbers, consider ‘marking’ your property in a unique way with a Trace Identified pen.

CRIME PREVENTION TIPS

If you are wearing expensive jewellery, ensure that it is properly affixed and not easily removed.
If possible, conceal your jewellery under clothing.
Be wary of strangers who do not respect your personal space or touch you in any way.
If someone is close enough to put a necklace on you, THEY ARE TOO CLOSE!
Walk with a friend whenever possible.
Be aware of who is around you and report any suspicious or criminal incident immediately to the Police or anonymously to Crime Stoppers.

SUSPECT DESCRIPTION: (only record what you remember)

Gender
Ethnicity
Age
Height
Build
Weight
Clothing Description: (ie: shoes, pants, shirts, jackets, hat)
Additional: (jewelery, tattoos, scars, complexion, deformities)
Face: (ie: wrinkles, ear size, nose shape, eye size and colour, eyebrow shape)
Vehicle: (Make, Model, Plate, Colour, Damage)
What was said? Was there an accent?

To report a crime anonymously, call Crime Stoppers at:

1-800-222-8477(TIPS) or online at: www.crimestoppers.com

In An Emergency: Call 9-1-1 To report a crime to the Toronto Police that is not an emergency call: 416-808-2222

Package Theft Prevention Tips

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Thu, 11 Mar 2021 20:30:12 GMT

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way we go about our daily lives. There has been an increase in online orders for various items that we used to go out to purchase in person.

The selection process, purchase and delivery of groceries, clothes, and home furnishings have become very easy to do.

As such, there are people who will see this as an opportunity to steal other people’s packages.

These thefts cost you more time, money and is an enormous inconvenience. If medication gets stolen, it can also have serious consequences.

Though many companies have policies to replace stolen packages, sometimes this process may take longer that what you may expect.

Here are some tips on how to prevent your packages from being stolen and what to do if you become the victim of theft.

BE A GOOD NEIGHBOUR

If you know you will not be home on time to accept the delivery, ask someone you trust to accept the package for you.

If you live in a building or complex, set up a way to have neighbours hold each others packages instead of leaving them out front of the address door. This also helps build bonds and trust between neighbours.

And who doesn’t want to have friendly neighbours?

TRACK YOUR PACKAGE

Track shipment information in advanced.

Most delivery companies now offer some form of tracking your packages – such as customized alerts.

UPS offers My Choice for their customers.

FedEx offers Delivery Manager

This will allow you to have some control as to when and where your package will be delivered.

REQUIRE A SIGNATURE

You can request that your package be delivered to someone in the household. You can request to have someone sign for your package.

Most people will not provide identification or sign for a package that does not belong to them.

This option ensures thatyour package will not be released to an unauthorized person.

USE CAMERAS

Cameras are a great deterrent against package thefts and other crimes. No one wants to have their image captured while committing a crime. Today’s technology allows you to monitoryour cameras from anywhere with online remote access wirelessly through online connections. There are also doorbells equipped with highresolution image and two-way voice options.

IF YOUR PACKAGE IS STOLEN

Report the theft toToronto Police Service through our

Contact the non-emergency line at (416) 808-2222

You can also contact Toronto Crime Stoppers at:

416-222-8477 (TIPS) and remain anonymous

CAF information session by Canadian Armed Forces

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Thu, 04 Mar 2021 22:23:13 GMT

Huge success with over 100 registrations

Toronto (March 4, 2021) – The first-ever NorthWest Toronto information session with the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) was a tremendous success, with 110 registrations and 67 attendees online.

“We had students, young men and women, parents and community members at the Virtual Session,” says Mark Tenaglia, Chair of Make Your Future (MYF).

“Clearly, people want this kind of information and we are already working on setting up the next session.”

MYF will share the link to the next CAF Information Session as soon as the date is set; in the meantime, those interested in receiving information and the registration link to that event can visit this link to leave contact information.

“We are very grateful to Danny Durante at Durante’s No Frills, which allowed us to set up an information kiosk to promote the March 3 ^rd event directly to families in our community,” Tenaglia notes.

CAF lead presenter Sgt. Delroy Gordon lined up specialists on topics including Regular Forces , Co-op programs, Cadet programs, and Reserve programs. (CAF Co-op programs are organized through the Toronto District School Board’s Co-op Department and take place at Fork York Armoury .) Attendees got answers to every question they had in the online session, which lasted just under two hours.

Some of the information presented focused on the facilities at Downsview, which includes Denison Armoury. Parents learned that there are four after-school Cadet programs for students aged 12 to 18 running at Denison (when COVID-19 restrictions are not in place). For information on Cadet programs, visit this link.

Toronto Police Service 'Know Your Rights' Campaign Community Information Video

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Sat, 30 Jan 2021 20:30:52 GMT

Racism and racial profiling are pressing and substantial problems that hurt individuals and poison our communities. Left unchecked, they deny the possibility of living in a just society. When the Ontario government banned carding on January 1, 2017, it was a vital step forward in concretely addressing racism and racial profiling in Toronto. Much work remains to be done, including the work of providing people with information about carding and the rights enacted in 2017 when the practice was banned. To learn more about your rights when engaging with a police officer, please watch this video.

This video refers to legislation, policies, and procedures. Please visit our Resources page for more information.

This video is the result of the dedicated work of many community members who came forward to help the Toronto Police Service improve its effort to inform the public and its members. The group, led by Inspector Kelly Skinner of the Toronto Police Service and Knia Singh, Principal Lawyer at Ma’at Legal Services, included Yvette Blackburn (Global Jamaica Diaspora Council, GJDC – Canadian Representative), Jennifer Chambers (Executive Director of the Empowerment Council), Stephen Linton, and Stephen McCammon (Legal Counsel at the Office of the Information and Privacy Commissioner of Ontario).

Visit the Know Your Rights webpage for more information.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca .

Gang Resistance Education And Training (G.R.E.A.T.)

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Tue, 26 Jan 2021 23:58:54 GMT

Toronto Police Constable Shawn Geris # 8472

The Gang Resistance Education And Training (G.R.E.A.T.) Program is an evidence-based , national and international gang and violence prevention program t hat has been building trust between law enforcement and communities for almost 30 years.

G.R.E.A.T. is intended as an immunization against delinquency, youth violence, and gang membership. It is designed for children in the years immediately before the prime ages for introduction into gangs and delinquent behavior.

The G.R.E.A.T. Program is built around school-based, law enforcement officer-instructed classroom curricula. It provides a continuum of components for children and their families. These components include a 13-lesson middle school curriculum, a 6-lesson elementary school curriculum, a summer component, and a families component.

More than 13,000 sworn officers from around the United States and various Central American countries have been trained and certified to teach the G.R.E.A.T. curricula. The G.R.E.A.T. curricula have been delivered to more than 6 million children, allowing law enforcement to foster strong relationships with these students, as well as their schools and communities.

Since its inception, G.R.E.A.T. has developed partnerships with nationally recognized organizations, such as Boys & Girls Clubs of America, Inc.; Families and Schools Together®; and the National Association of Police Athletic/Activities Leagues, Inc. These partnerships encourage positive collaboration among the community, parents, schools, and law enforcement.

Project #Engage416

website@sitemodify.com (Website Editor) — Tue, 26 Jan 2021 22:51:56 GMT

About

DRIVING SOLUTIONS . FROM THE INSIDE OUT.

Project #Engage416 is an expansion and new component of the Toronto Police Service's greater gang prevention strategy that focuses on implementing a version of the evidence-based Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention comprehensive gang model at the neighbourhood level, modified to fit the diverse needs of 12 pilot neighbourhoods in the City of Toronto.

Between September of 2019 and March of 2020, the Toronto Police Service's Integrated Gang Prevention Task Force hosted over 30 Gang Prevention Town Halls in the City of Toronto's 31 lowest equitable neighbourhoods. During the Gang Prevention Town Halls, over 1,600 community members and 50+ government and non-government organizations voiced their experiences, opinions, ideas, and concerns. Their voices were not lost, forgotten, or ignored. Highly motivated and influenced by the community outreach, Project #Engage416 is geared towards the insights gained, community concerns, and empowerment needed in some of the most gang-impacted neighbourhoods in Toronto.

Based on the five core strategies o f:

(1) Community Mobilization

(2) Opportunities Provision

(3) Social Intervention

(4) Suppression , and

(5) Organizational Change and Development ,

Project #Engage416 will focus on conducting intensive community outreach efforts in 12 of the most impacted neighbourhoods in the City of Toronto's northwest quadrant to support our mission statement of engaging and empowering communities to educate, prevent, intervene, and suppress gun & gang violence, human trafficking, and sexual violence & harassment - driving solutions, from the inside out.

For more information and resources, visit Engage416

53 Division News

Cram-A-Cruiser

5 District General Information Session on April 28, 2026

5 District General Information Session

on April 28, 2026

Learn more about Opportunities with the TPS. Connect directly with the recruitment team, meet members , and learn more about career opportunities with the Toronto Police Service.

Student Leadership Bursary Awards 2026

Coffee with a Cop

Painting with Cops

Cupcakes & Cops

Coffee with a Cop

Project Re-Cycle 2026

Festive Holiday Fundraiser

53 Division Community Police Liaison Committee (CPLC) host Festive Holiday Fundraiser at Cumberland Private Wealth

2nd Annual Toronto Police Pumpkin Challenge

2nd Annual Toronto Police Pumpkin Challenge

Festive Holiday Fundraiser 2025

Cram-A-Cruiser

Save the Date

Pickleball with a Cop

53 Division Open House

Save the Date!

Cram-A-Cruiser

Ride the Track

53 Division Prayer Walk 2025

53 Division Prayer Walk

Coffee with a Cop

Box with a Cop

CPLC meeting - March 3, 2025

Suppers for Seniors

Supper for Seniors

Project Re-Cycle 2025

First CPLC meeting of 2025

Cram-A_Cruiser

53 Division Auxiliaries host

Cram-A-Cruiser Toy Drive

Festive Holiday Fundraiser

53 Division Community Police Liaison Committee (CPLC) host Festive Holiday Fundraiser at BMO

Coffee with Law Enforcement in Yorkville

CP Month

53 Division Open House

Save the Date

Bike With Us

Smile Cookie Week

Smile Cookie Week

Coffee with Law Enforcement

53 Division Prayer Walk

53 Division Prayer Walk

Out of Sight Out of Landfills

Coffee with a Cop

Coffee with a Cop

World Autism Awareness Day

Bicycle Donations for Project Re-Cycle

Student Leadership Bursary Awards

Holiday High Tea

53 Division Community Policing Liaison Committee (CPLC) host First Fundraising High Tea at Parc Ave.

Leaside Toy Drive

Leaside Toy Drive

World Kindness Day 2023

World Kindness Day 2023

Crime Prevention Week

Crime Prevention Week 2023

CPLC makes a donation to the Lancebotics Team

Lance ﻿ botics

53 Division Officers and members of the CPLC visited the Lancebotics team at Leaside H.S and presented the team with a cheque to support their efforts to return to post-pandemic competition, representing the Leaside community, Toronto and Canada, at the Vex 2023 - 2024 competitions.

Coffee with Law Enforcement

Coffee with Law Enforcement Event

High Tea Fundraiser

The 53 Division CPLC is proud to

﻿ present our first Fundraiser of 2023.

Join us for an elegant high tea in support of the 53 Division Student Leadership Bursary Awards. Tickets are on sale until November 19th, 2023. Get Yours Today!

Run with Us

New 53 Division NCO

﻿ Running Program Launch

53 DIVISION OPEN HOUSE

53 Division 2023 Open House

Project Breezy

Gateway Bike Hub is a community project that aims at reducing waste in landfills by collecting and fixing bicycles that may otherwise end up at a local dump

World Kindness Day

Neighbourhood Officers from 53 Division participated in WORLD KINDNESS DAY on November 13 th 2022.

Lance botics

present our first Fundraiser of 2023.

Running Program Launch

Neighbourhood Officers from 53 Division participated in WORLD KINDNESS DAY on November 13 ^th 2022.

1-800-222-8477(TIPS)

On average, a car is stolen every 6 minutes in Canada.

WHAT YOU NEED TO DO IN THE NEXT FEW HOURS