Tuesday, April 30, 2013

Sexual Assault Awareness Month Kick-Off

Toronto Police Service
News Release

Media advisory, Wednesday, May 1, 2013, 10:30 a.m., Toronto Police Service Headquarters, Lobby, Sexual Assault Awareness Month Kick-Off

Tuesday, April 30, 2013 - 5:00 PM
Corporate Communications:  416-808-7100

On Wednesday, May 1, 2013, at 10:30 a.m., in the lobby at headquarters, the Toronto Police Service will be joined by the Honourable Laurel Broten, MPP for Etobicoke-Lakeshore and Minister Responsible for Women's Issues and Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, to kick off Sexual Assault Awareness Month in partnership with the Toronto Police Service's Sexual Assault Advisory Committee and students from Seneca College's Graphic Design program.

This year's theme is "Report Support" and the Toronto Police Service will be working with its community partners to encourage survivors of sexual assault to tell their story by reporting it to police and seeking support in the community.

A graphic arts campaign by Seneca College students and a video message from a sexual assault survivor will be featured.

Members of the media are invited to attend the event. The campaigns and the video will be posted on the Toronto Police Service's website and social media accounts. Follow #sexassault or #saam2013 on Twitter or visit us on Facebook for event details.

Meaghan Gray, Corporate Communications

Spring for Peace & The After Party Annual Fundraiser - May 23, 2013


Spring for Peace is the annual fundraiser for Peacebuilders International (Canada). Proceeds from this event enable Peacebuilders to continue delivering award-winning programs that help transform the lives of young people and build more peaceful communities.

This year's event will be held at Daniels Spectrum (585 Dundas Street East) in Toronto on Thursday May 23, 2013. Guests will enjoy appetizers by The Moveable Feast, will be entertained by Oui B. Jamon and will enjoy fabulous Silent and Fine Wine Auctions.


Apps by The Movable Feast
Live Music
Live, Slilent and Fine Wine Auctions
The AfterParty 8:00pm to 1:00am Tickets $85
Open Bar
Silent Auction
Music by DJ Scammer
Burgers by South St. Burger Co.




Peacebuilders is a youth focused, not-for- profit, charitable organization based in Toronto, Canada. Peacebuilders was established to improve the lives of youth, by providing them with appropriate access to justice so that they are empowered to overcome personal challenges and are able to realize their full potential. The mission of Peacebuilders is to support youth and adults to manage conflict through Peacebuilding Circles. Peacebuilders programs not only help to keep young people in school and out of the criminal justice system, but also help to foster resilient young leaders who see the value in contributing and giving back to their communities.



MPP GLEN MURRAY TO HOST ONTARIO BUDGET EVENT

Ontario Liberal Party E-NewsLetter
On Thursday May 2nd, Ontario Finance Minister Charles Sousa will deliver the 2013/2014 Ontario Budget in the Ontario Legislature. Glen Murray, MPP for Toronto Centre would like to invite you as a local stakeholder to discuss the 2013/2014 Ontario Budget with him on May 3rd over coffee and snacks.

This event will take place from 8:00am to approximately 9:00am on Friday May 3rd, 2013 at Merryberry Café and Bistro (559 Parliament Street).

Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me. If you are planning on attending, please RSVP by Thursday May 2nd at 12:00pm via email (medwards@liberal.ola.org). Budget materials will be available on Friday morning for your review. 

Thank you and we look forward to seeing you on Friday morning. Please see below for the agenda for the event.

MPP GLEN MURRAY TO HOST ONTARIO BUDGET EVENT
April 30, 2013

Glen Murray, Minister of Transportation, Minister of Infrastructure, and MPP for Toronto Centre, will be discussing the 2013 Ontario Budget over coffee with residents of his riding.

Date: Friday, May 3rd, 2013
Location: Merryberry Café and Bistro, 559 Parliament Street, Toronto ON, M4X1P7 
Schedule of Events:
8:00 a.m. Minister Murray arrives at Merryberry Café and Bistro
8:10 a.m. Minister Murray to deliver remarks on 2013 Ontario Budget
8:15 a.m. Q & A with residents

For further information: Matthew Edwards, Executive Assistant, Office of MPP Glen Murray, (416) 972-7683, medwards@liberal.ola.org

Monday, April 29, 2013

Cycle Safe Campaign, Monday, April 29, 2013

Toronto Police Service
News Release


Cycle Safe Campaign, Monday, April 29, 2013

Monday, April 29, 2013 - 5:30 AM
14 Division:  416-808-1400

Traffic Safety remains a top priority of the Toronto Police Service. One of our traffic safety goals is to “increase focus on cycling safety through education and enforcement.”

14 Division will be launching the Cycle Safe Campaign, starting on Monday, April 29, 2013. The campaign will conclude on Sunday, May 5, 2013.

This one-week campaign is designed to promote awareness and education by reducing the potential for bike and wheel-sport-related injuries.

The traffic on Toronto’s roadways affects almost everyone within the city. The safe and efficient flow of traffic, and the safety of our drivers, passengers, cyclists, and pedestrians is of significant concern to the Toronto Police Service. Building partnerships and mobilizing local communities to respond to local traffic problems will assist in sustaining successful efforts and improve neighbourhood roadway safety.

All police officers will pay particular attention to those motorists whose actions endanger the lives of cyclists. Drivers failing to proceed through turns safely, opening vehicle doors improperly, and driving in designated bike lanes, all contribute to reduced cycling safety. In addition, all officers will pay attention to cyclists that commit offences. Education and enforcement of cycling offences are critical to ensuring safe roadways for our communities.

Constable Tony Vella, Corporate Communications, for Sergeant Catherine White, 14 Division


Friday, April 26, 2013

Glen Murray's April 2013 Newsletter

Ontario Liberal Party E-NewsLetter
April 2013
26/04/2013

Dear Constituents,
We have seen some exciting action in the Ontario Legislature over the past months. We are working hard to secure a bright future for Ontarians by continuing to strengthen our economy, investing in health care and working to pass a budget that moves Ontario forward. I wanted to take this opportunity to update you on our Government’s current work and let you know about some exciting upcoming community events.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact my staff at my constituency office.

Thank you.

Glen Murray
MPP Toronto Centre
514 Parliament
Toronto, ON M4X 1P4
Phone: 416-972-7683
gmurray.mpp.co@liberal.ola.org

A Budget to Move Ontario Forward
The Government’s budget for 2013 will be announced on Thursday May 2nd. Budget information will be available online after the details have been announced in the legislature. A vote will take place on the budget sometime between May 15th and May 30th. I would encourage you to contact me with any questions you have about the budget process as we move through this important time in the legislature.
Stronger Consumer Protection Laws
Our government is taking strong steps to provide vulnerable consumers with protection against unfair business practices of some companies that offer debt settlement services. Changes include:
  • Banning companies from charging upfront fees for debt settlement services
  • Limiting the total amount of fees consumers are charged
  • Requiring clear, easy-to-understand contracts
  • Allowing the licenses of non-compliant companies to be revoked
Expanded Access to Physiotherapy for Seniors
More than 200,000 Ontarians will receive more one-on-one, high-quality physiotherapy and falls prevention programming will be offered in long-term care homes and community settings. These improvements will provide better care for better value.
Creation of the College of Trades
The College of Trades will ensure that all licensed tradespeople in Ontario are skilled, well-trained and accountable. This will help to protect the safety of not only the public but workers and apprentices as well. A public register will allow consumers as well as employers to check to see if the person that they’re considering hiring is a member in good standing. We believe the people who work in our skilled trades deserve the same privileges and respect that we afford to professionals such as teachers, doctors, nurses, and accountants.
New Funding for Home Care
Our government has made the conscious decision to focus on care in the community so that there are more options available to older Ontarians to help them stay in the comfort of their own home longer. To follow through on this commitment, $260 million in new funding will go to support home care expansion in Ontario. Our investments will lead to a five day average guarantee that applies to patients with complex care needs. About 46,000 new patients will be served each year across the province.

Local Initiatives/Events

The days are growing longer and warmer and with those come the excitement of summer festivities. Below we list a few upcoming events and opportunities that are definitely worth checking out.
Looking for Summer Work?
Through the Ontario Summer Jobs Strategy, students can search for jobs, get help with their resume and learn how to start a company.
Check out
www.ontario.ca/summerjobs or call 1800-387-5656 to find out more.
Forsythia Festival – Including a parade, children’s activities, live entertainment, great food and a beer garden.
Where: Cabbagetown
When: 10am-3pm, May 5th
Contact: Laura or Trish (
info@cabbagetowner.com)
Public Legal Information Sessions – Learn about wills and small claims court
Where: The Law Society of Upper Canada, 130 Queen St W.
When: 5:30pm, May 7th
Contact: Register online beforehand –
www.ojen.ca/registerMay7 or by phone 416-947-3413 ext 3413
Environment Day & Sidewalk Sale
Where: On The Esplanade at Lower Sherbourne
When: 10am-3pm, Saturday April 27th
Contact: Ronny (416-366-6162)
Rental Proceeds go to Princess Park Children's Play Garden and St. Lawrence Seniors.

Community Yard Sale - a MULTI Family event with thousands of items and everyone is welcome to participate
Where: Sherbourne to Parliament, Carlton to Shuter
When: 9am, May 25th
Contact: Jennifer (
jennylouwalker@gmail.com)

Prescription Drop-Off Day - May 11, 2013

On Saturday May 11, 2013, the Toronto Police Service in partnership with Toronto Public Health will be hosting the Prescription Drug Drop-Off Day at five locations throughout the city.   Attached are the promotional materials relating to the events. 
               
LOCATIONS
·         Sherway Gardens, 25 The West Mall (Door 7, between The Bay and Sporting Life)
·         31 Division, 40 Norfinch Drive
·         43 Division,  4331 Lawrence Avenue East
·         Loblaw’s at 396 St Clair Avenue West
·         Nathan Phillips Square, 100 Queen Street West

For more information about the Prescription Drug Drop-Off Day Initiative:  www.torontopolice.on.ca/rxdrop2013




























































On Saturday, May 11, 2013, the Toronto Police Service in partnership with Toronto Public Health will be hosting the city's first Prescription Drug Drop-Off Day.

This event will have five locations across the city where members of the public can dispose of any unwanted or expired medication. Each site will be staffed by Toronto Police Service officers, Toronto Public Health nurses and pharmacology students who will take prescription drugs, narcotics or over the counter medications and dispose of them in a safe and secure way.

The misuse of any medication is a significant public health and safety concern. Rates of recreational misuse of medication by young people are a critical issue. According to the Ontario Student Drug Use Health Survey conducted by the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health in 2011, 14.3% of students, grades 7-12, admitted to using prescription drugs for non-medicinal use and 8% admitted to using over the counter cold medication to get high. Many of these young people will get these medications from home. If you are a parent or caregiver, you have a responsibility to ensure you properly dispose of your unused or expired medication.

This is not just an issue for young people. Many seniors are taking multiple prescriptions and managing appropriate doses, expiry dates and cross contaminations can be confusing. If you have a friend or family member who is in this position, Prescription Drug Drop-Off Day is an excellent opportunity to review their prescriptions and make appropriate disposals.

These events are also supported by various environmental initiatives. For example, the Government of Ontario's Ministry of the Environment has filed a regulation making the pharmaceutical industry responsible for ensuring that services are in place for consumers to return their unused medications. 

According to Health Canada, there is growing evidence that inappropriately disposing of medication results in chemical components being added to water and soil and may affect aquatic life and human health. As a result of this regulation, there are now 3,000 pharmacies in Ontario collecting medications and prescriptions at any time.From a policing perspective, the misuse of medications - prescription or over the counter - can and often leads to criminal behaviour such as health care fraud; robbery; driving under the influence; and drug trafficking. The Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police and the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police are supporting the Government of Canada's National Framework on Prescription Drug Misuse. It is hoped that partnering with local and provincial health agencies to establish Prescription Drug Drop-Off Days will lessen the impact of medication misuse on police resources.

Other jurisdictions have had success with Prescription Drug Drop-Off Days. In 2012, an initiative by the United States Drug Enforcement Agency resulted in 276 tonnes of pharmaceuticals being handed in across the country. Also in 2012, Niagara Region hosted its first Prescription Drug Drop-Off Day attended by more than 420 vehicles and over 400 kilograms of medication were collected.

Help us deliver a successful event by attending a drop-off location near you. Bring us your unwanted or expired medication for proper disposal. Together we can create safer, healthier homes for our families.















Youth in Policing Initiative first after-school graduation

Toronto Police Service
News Release

Media advisory, Friday, April 26, 2013, 5 p.m., Headquarters, auditorium, 2nd floor, Youth in Policing Initiative first after-school graduation

Friday, April 26, 2013 - 9:00 AM
Area Field:  416-808-0185

On Friday, April 26, 2013, at 5 p.m., in the auditorium at headquarters, the Toronto Police Service, in partnership with the Toronto Police Services Board and the Ministry of Children and Youth Services, will host the Youth in Policing Initiative first after-school graduation.

Participating in the ceremony will be Police Services Board Chair Alok Mukherjee, Chief William Blair and Deputy Chief Peter Sloly, along with other special guests and family members.

The event will feature a video message from The Honourable Teresa Piruzza, Minister of Children and Youth Services.

For further information, please contact Melva Radway at 416−808−0185.

Constable Wendy Drummond, Corporate Communications, for Melva Radway, Area Field Command



Victim/witness satisfaction phone survey

Toronto Police Service
News Release

Toronto Police Service conducts victim/witness satisfaction phone survey, Saturday, April 27, 2013, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Friday, April 26, 2013 - 8:30 AM
Divisional Policing Support Unit:  416-808-0129

The Toronto Police Service would like to make the public aware that we will be conducting voluntary phone surveys with victims/witnesses on Saturday, April 27, 2013, from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Officers and Auxiliary members of the TPS will be asking a series of questions that will assist us on how we can improve our services to victims and witness of crime. It is anticipated that approximately 500 calls will be made. This voluntary survey should take no more than five minutes.

Thank you for your assistance. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Constable Laura Langdon at 416-808-0105 or laura.langdon@torontopolice.on.ca

Constable Wendy Drummond, Corporate Communications, for Sergeant Theresa Monaghan, Divisional Policing Support Unit



Thursday, April 25, 2013

Free CPR and AED workshop at OCAD University


Battle of York bicentennial day events on April 27 - event details, road closures and TTC service changes


City of Toronto Media Relations has issued the following Media Release:
=================================================
  
April 25, 2013   

Battle of York bicentennial day events on April 27 - event details, road closures and TTC service changes

On Saturday, April 27, the City of Toronto and the Canadian Armed Forces will present a number of free downtown events to commemorate a defining day in the history of Canada and Toronto - the 200th anniversary of the Battle of York. Event highlights/details below:

Starting at 9 a.m. at Queen's Park, the Canadian Armed Forces' 3rd Battalion of the Royal Canadian Regiment will present a dynamic capability demonstration. It will include, an urban patrol, a parachute demonstration (weather dependent) and rappelling. 

At 10 a.m. in front of the Ontario Legislative Building at Queen's Park, His Royal Highness Prince Philip, The Duke of Edinburgh, will present a new Regimental Colour to the 3rd Battalion, The Royal Canadian Regiment.

From 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. a parade of more than 1,500 sailors and soldiers from the Royal Canadian Navy and the Canadian Army will march from Queen’s Park to Fort York National Historic Site. This parade of marching bands, sailors and soldiers in ceremonial uniforms and Regimental Colours will be one of the largest military parades ever organized in Toronto.

At 1:30 p.m., a commemorative ceremony will be held inside the walls of Fort York National Historic Site. Among the participants will be re-enactment units in War of 1812 uniforms, First Nations whose ancestors fought in the battle and an honour guard of sailors and soldiers of the Canadian Armed Forces who serve in Toronto today.

The War of 1812 was a defining chapter in the story of Canada and Toronto. For more information about the City's bicentennial program please visit: http://www.toronto.ca/1812.

Media can access a detailed Battle of York bicentennial backgrounder at:

Additional commemorative events will be held throughout the day at multiple downtown Toronto locations. For more information please visit: http://www.toronto.ca/1812. The public can also interact with the event via Twitter @FortYork and at #BattleofYork.

Media access to the above events:

All events can be accessed by media with the exception of the morning Queen's Park ceremonies, which will require prior accreditation with the Canadian Armed Forces.

Media must register with Captain Jon O'Connor by email at jon.oconnor@forces.gc.ca. Attending Media must present proper photo ID and media affiliation at time of check in.

General questions about media access to all other Battle of York day commemoration events can be directed to City of Toronto Communications Coordinator Shane Gerard.

Road Closures - Saturday, April 27:

-Queen's Park Crescent (Bloor Street to College Street) - Closed 6:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

-University Avenue (College Street to Richmond Street) - Closed 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Note: East-West cross streets will continue to flow through gaps in the parade.

-Richmond Street (University Avenue to Portland Street) - Closed 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Note: North-South cross streets will continue to flow through gaps in the parade.

-Portland Street (Richmond Street to Front Street) - Closed 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Note: On-street parking is restricted from April 27 at 12 a.m. until the parade has passed.

-Front Street (Portland Street to Bathurst Street) - Closed noon to 1 p.m.
Note: On-street parking is restricted from April 27 at 12 a.m. until the parade has passed.

-Bathurst Street (Front Street to Fort York Boulevard) - Closed noon to 1 p.m.

-Fort York Boulevard (Bathurst Street to Fleet Street) - Closed noon to 2 p.m.

Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) service changes:

Between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. on April 27, the 94 Wellesley bus, and the 501 Queen, 504 King, 505 Dundas, 506 Carlton, 510 Spadina, and 511 Bathurst streetcars will experience minor delays due to the parade.

Toronto is Canada's largest city and sixth largest government, and home to a diverse population of about 2.8 million people. Toronto's government is dedicated to delivering customer service excellence, creating a transparent and accountable government, reducing the size and cost of government and building a transportation city. For information on non-emergency City services and programs, Toronto residents, businesses and visitors can dial 311, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

- 30 -

Media contacts:
Shane Gerard, Communications Coordinator, 647-881-9854, sgerard@toronto.ca Captain Indira Thackorie, Public Affairs Officer, Land Force Centre Area Headquarters,
416-633-6200 (ext 5509) and 647-920-9231, indira.thackorie@forces.gc.ca


Stunt drivers’ cars impounded

Driving is a privilege, not a right.

A/Supt. Gord Jones issued this reminder at a press conference at police headquarters on April 23, after Traffic Services officers issued 11 stunt driving charges in a 48-hour period last weekend.
On Sat. April 19, at 1.54 a.m., police clocked a Porsche travelling at 169 km/h in a 100 km/h zone on the Gardiner Expressway. Forty-six minutes later, a 26-year-old motorist was pulled over for driving his 2009 Porsche Cayenne on the same expressway at 181 km/h. On Mon. April 21, at 3.48 a.m., a 32-year-old Hamilton man was nabbed speeding on the Gardiner at 185 km/h. in his 1997 BMW 540i.
All the drivers had their licences suspended and vehicles impounded for seven days. They face a fine of up to $10,000. One man also faces a charge of driving with a blood alcohol of over .08, allegedly while travelling at 185km/h.
20130425_tsv_stunt_drivers.jpg“A very concerning issue in these three incidents was that the drivers had also consumed alcohol in addition to the high speeds,” said Jones.
“To put these speeds into perspective, a vehicle travelling 185 km/h is travelling at 50 metres per second. An NHL rink is about 60 metres in length and it would take a vehicle about 1.2 secs. to travel that distance. That same vehicle, providing the driver could react instantaneously, would take in excess of 192 metres to stop.”
The arrested drivers were all men ranging in age from 18 to 44.
“Every one of them knew the difference between right and wrong,” said Jones.
“Unfortunately, they made the wrong choice… Almost on a daily basis, members of this Service see, first-hand, the impact of collisions that occur on city streets and the impact on victims, their families and first-responders. The amount of damage that would occur if any of these vehicles travelling at these excessive speeds were involved in a collision, would be catastrophic and almost certainly lead to a fatality.”
A total of 45 stunt driving charges, including the 11, were laid last weekend in the province. Last year, during the same period, five charges were laid in Ontario, including three in the city.
Last year, Toronto police laid 381 stunt driving charges, the majority on the Don Valley and Gardiner Expressway. So far this year, 93 stunt driving charges have been laid.
Jones warned irresponsible drivers they will pay for their reckless actions that could endanger safety.
“For those drivers using Toronto roads, take note,” he said.
“If you make a choice to drive aggressively, to drive impaired, to drive as distracted or without a seatbelt on Toronto roads and choose to risk the safety of all road-users, we will be there and we will get you.
“Traffic policing is a Service priority for the Toronto Police Service. I want to re-affirm our mission to keep our roads safe from drivers who are making bad, and sometimes fatal, choices while driving on Toronto roads…Each time one of these drivers exceed the speed limit, other road-users are put at risk.”
In 2012, there were 44 fatalities and 66 life-threatening collisions in Toronto. Alcohol was a contributing factor in six of the road deaths.

Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Update, Man arrested, faces five charges in robbery investigation

Toronto Police Service
News Release

Police request assistance with robbery investigation, Update, Man arrested, faces five charges in robbery investigation

Wednesday, April 24, 2013 - 4:36 PM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

On Wednesday, April 24, 2013, the Toronto Police Service issued a news release for a robbery investigation in the Sherbourne Street/Wellesley Street East area.

See previous release.

On Wednesday, April 24, 2013, at 2:40 p.m., police arrested Michael Bauld, 45, of Toronto. He has been charged with:

1) four counts of Robbery
2) Theft under

He is scheduled to appear in court at College Park, on Thursday, April 25, 2013, at 10 a.m.

Constable Tony Vella, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Mykola Skvortsov, 51 Division



Public Safety Alert, Potential arsonist

Toronto Police Service
News Release

Wednesday, April 24, 2013 - 2:05 PM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

The Toronto Police Service would like to make the public aware of a potential arsonist.

It is reported that:

- during the week of April 14, 2013, several fires were started on porches of homes in the downtown area
- the fires were set between 2 a.m. and 6 a.m.
- the fires caused substantial damage to the homes and, in some cases, occupants who were asleep inside had to be evacuated
- in each case, there was debris on the porches including stacked newspapers, furniture or construction material

The Toronto Arson Task Force has the following suggestions:


  • Use crime prevention techniques to secure your property and prevent unauthorized entry
    • make sure all doors, windows, skylights are secured, paying attention to any entrances in alleys
    • when the building is going to be left vacant for a period of time, make it look like it is occupied by utilizing timers on lights
    • trim or remove shrubbery and other landscaping that block the view of the building from the street
    • be mindful of strangers and report suspicious actions around homes, vacant buildings, schools, businesses, and other structures
    • have neighbours watch over your property while you're away
  • get rid of rubbish (it’s the arsonist's kindling and "cover" as it leaves the impression that the fire was spontaneous
  • be active in local Neighbourhood and Business Watch programs
  • develop and practice a fire safety plan with your family

For a more detailed list, please refer to the Toronto Arson Task Force website at www.toronto.ca/fire/tatf

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.

Constable Victor Kwong, Corporate Communications, for Detective Debbie Harris, 51 Division

Police request assistance with robbery investigation of a series of robberies in the Wellesley Street East/Sherbourne Street area


Toronto Police Service
News Release

Police request assistance with robbery investigation

Wednesday, April 24, 2013 - 8:11 AM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

The Toronto Police Service would like to make the public aware of a series of robberies in the Wellesley Street East/Sherbourne Street area.

It is reported that:

- between Thursday, April 18, 2013 and Monday, April 22, 2013, a man followed four separate women into their apartment buildings
- once inside, the man attacked the women, striking them from behind and knocking them to the ground
- the man grabbed the victims’ purses and fled the area 

The man is described as black, with a medium-to-dark complexion, 20-35, 5’7”-6’, with a medium build. He was last seen wearing a dark hoodie, a grey/black baseball hat and white shoes.

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.

Constable Tony Vella, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Mykola Skvortsov, 51 Division




MUSIC! Not Mischief Year 5 Finale Concert, BIGGER and Better than Ever

Toronto Police Service
News Release

Media advisory, Wednesday, April 24, 2013, 8 p.m., Virgin Mobile MOD Club, 722 College Street, MUSIC! Not Mischief Year 5 Finale Concert, BIGGER and Better than Ever

Wednesday, April 24, 2013 - 5:15 AM
11 Division:  416-808-1103

Music! Not Mischief is a Toronto Police Service-led youth outreach program partnering police officers with high-school students.

Officers mentor students as they learn to play the guitar in preparation for an end-of-season concert where students play on stage with a real rock band. Now in its fifth year, MUSIC! Not Mischief has expanded to 16 schools in four police jurisdictions. This year, the program was delivered in 13 schools in Toronto, as well as one in Oshawa, Hamilton and Niagara Falls by their respective regional police services.

By virtue of this youth program being delivered in a multi-police-agency partnership, MUSIC! Not Mischief is being heralded as the first police/youth program initiative to become a joint forces project.

On Wednesday, April 24, 2013, at 8 p.m., one student from each of the 16 schools will perform and compete on stage at the world-famous, Virgin Mobile MOD Club at 722 College Street, Toronto. Each student will play a rock cover song with one of two rock bands, Little Sunday from Richmond Hill, or TraceNine from Cambridge, Ont.

The performances will be judged by a panel of celebrity judges including Platinum Blonde lead singer Mark Holmes, Canadian screen actor Herbie Barnes (Spirit Rider, Dance Me Outside), and CBC news anchor Dwight Drummond. The show will be hosted by Tamara Cherry of CTV News. The winner of the competition will get to keep the guitar they played. GTA-based guitar manufacturer Carparelli Guitars supplies instruments to the MUSIC! Not Mischief program.

The concert will be free of charge to all members of the community.

MUSIC! Not Mischief is funded by Proaction Cops & Kids, a charity that funds police led, youth out-reach initiatives for at-risk youth. (copsandkids.ca)

For further information on MUSIC! Not Mischief and this event, please contact Constable Robert Tajti at 416-808-1103.

*ProAction’s goal is to build mutual trust and respect between cops and kids, breaking down stereotypes and improving the safety of our communities for everyone.

Constable Tony Vella, Corporate Communications, for Constable Robert Tajti, 11 Division



School Crossing Guard Appreciation Night

Toronto Police Service
News Release

Media advisory, Wednesday, April 24, 2013, 7 p.m., Toronto City Hall, 100 Queen Street West, Rotunda, School Crossing Guard Appreciation Night

Wednesday, April 24, 2013 - 5:00 AM
Traffic Services:  416-808-1900

On Wednesday, April 24, 2013, at 7 p.m., the 2013 School Crossing Guard Long Service Awards will be presented at Toronto City Hall, 100 Queen Street West, in the Rotunda.

Dr. Alok Mukherjee, Chair of the Toronto Police Services Board, and TPS Deputy Chief Mike Federico will be on hand to present the awards.

More than 100 School Crossing Guards will be recognized for their years of service to the community.

Two of the recipients will receive individual presentations for the “Crossing Guard of the Year” award.

The School Crossing Guard Appreciation Night outlines the important work crossing guards do every day, crossing children safely in all sorts of weather and environments.

Light refreshments will be served following the ceremony.

For further information, please contact Constable Jill Miller at 416−808−1915.

Constable Wendy Drummond, Corporate Communications, for Constable Clint Stibbe Traffic Services



Tuesday, April 23, 2013

Police request assistance with investigation into theft of $26,000 bottle of scotch, Security camera image of suspect released

Toronto Police Service
News Release

Police request assistance with investigation into theft of $26,000 bottle of scotch, Security camera image of suspect released

Tuesday, April 23, 2013 - 10:02 AM
51 Division:  416-808-5100

The Toronto Police Service is requesting the public's assistance identifying a man wanted in a theft investigation.

On Monday, April 8, 2013, police responded to a theft call at an LCBO store at 2 Cooper Street.
Above: Security camera image of suspect in
 investigation into theft of $26,000 bottle of scotch


It is alleged that:

- on Sunday, April 7, 2013, at approximately 1:40 p.m., a man entered the LCBO store and went to the vintage section

- he selected a 700ml bottle of 50-year-old Glenfiddich Single Malt scotch, which was in a glass case, then selected a bottle of wine

- the man paid for the bottle of wine, but left the store without paying for the bottle of scotch, valued at $26,000

- the bottle is extremely rare, with only 15 bottles in Ontario and 50 bottles worldwide

The man is described as white, 35-45, 5’10", clean-shaven with black-framed glasses. He was last seen wearing a Burberry plaid shirt, brown hat, brown trenchcoat and black jeans.

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.

Constable Wendy Drummond, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Michael Tattersall, 51 Division

News Releases



Above: Security camera image of suspect in investigation into theft of $26,000 bottle of scotch
Above: Photograph of bottle of 50-year-old Glenfiddich Single Malt scotch that was stolen 
Apr 23, 2013, 10:02 am

Police request assistance with investigation into
theft of $26,000 bottle of scotch,
Security camera image of suspect released


51 Division:  416-808-5100

The Toronto Police Service is requesting the public's assistance identifying a man wanted in a theft investigation.

On Monday, April 8, 2013, police responded to a theft call at an LCBO store at 2 Cooper Street.

It is alleged that:

- on Sunday, April 7, 2013, at approximately 1:40 p.m., a man entered the LCBO store and went to the vintage section

- he selected a 700ml bottle of 50-year-old Glenfiddich Single Malt scotch, which was in a glass case, then selected a bottle of wine

- the man paid for the bottle of wine, but left the store without paying for the bottle of scotch, valued at $26,000

- the bottle is extremely rare, with only 15 bottles in Ontario and 50 bottles worldwide

The man is described as white, 35-45, 5’10", clean-shaven with black-framed glasses. He was last seen wearing a Burberry plaid shirt, brown hat, brown trenchcoat and black jeans.

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.

Constable Wendy Drummond, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Michael Tattersall, 51 Division


Monday, April 22, 2013

$100K reward for violent robbers

Toronto Police Service
News Release

Police request assistance with armed robbery/shooting investigation, Security video and photographs of two men released

Monday, April 22, 2013 - 1:25 PM
Hold Up Squad:  416-808-7350

On Sunday, April 21, 2013, at 12:21 p.m., police responded to a call for an armed robbery at the TD Canada Trust bank at 2555 St. Clair Avenue West.

It is reported that:
- two men, one armed with a handgun, entered the bank
- the men ordered customers in the bank to get down on the ground and jumped up onto the counter, making demands to the bank employees for money
- a customer confronted one of the men and got into a physical altercation
- the second man fired at the victim, missing both men and struck a bank teller in the left thigh 
- the two men fled the bank with a quantity of cash
- once outside, the two men were confronted by the same customer, who was shot by the same man, striking him in the upper left abdomen 
-the two men drove away from the scene in a stolen Honda Civic

The stolen vehicle was located by police and seized for forensic examination.

The two men were captured on security camera video. This video has been released along with photographs of the two men.

The man who entered the bank first is described as black, mid-20s, wearing a black hoodie with a white "8" on the left chest, a black Chicago White Sox cap, jeans, black shoes and armed with a silver handgun

The second man entering the bank is described as black, mid-20s, wearing a hoodie with a grey quilted North Face vest on top, baseball cap under the hood, jeans, and grey high-top shoes

They are considered armed and dangerous. Do not approach. If located, call 9-1-1.

Click here to watch security video.

The Canadian Bankers Association is offering up to a $100,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of either suspect in this investigation. Anonymous tips are eligible for this reward, which will be facilitated through Toronto Crime Stoppers.

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

Constable Wendy Drummond, Corporate Communications, for Staff Inspector Mike Earl, Hold Up Squad







20130422_hld_bank_robbery_reward.jpgThe Canadian Bankers Association (CBA) is offering a reward of up to $100,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of two criminals who robbed a west-end TD Bank in broad daylight on April 21.

One of the two male suspects discharged two shots that struck a 22-year old female bank employee in her thigh and a 54-year-old male customer, who was shot in the abdomen after a confrontation in the bank’s parking lot. Both victims are recovering in hospital.


“We hope this reward will lead to information on these criminals, so that people can go about their lives freely and with confidence,” said CBA security and intelligence director William Crate.

“Bank robberies are a serious issue, not just for law enforcement but for our communities… It’s not the money that we are concerned about in the banking industry. There are innocent people involved in these (robberies)… Bank robbery is a personal crime.”

The suspect, armed with a silver semi-automatic handgun, was wearing a black hooded sweat top with the number eight over the left breast, a Chicago White Sox cap and faded blue jeans. The other suspect was wearing a hooded sweat top with a baseball cap and faded blue jeans.

Hold Up Squad S/Insp. Mike Earl is requesting the public’s help in apprehending the violent suspects whose getaway car was found about two hours later near Jane St. and Wilson Ave.

“This is a horrific robbery, it’s brazen and it is cowardly,” said Earl.

“From my recollection, the last time a bank teller was shot in a bank was 1999 when Nancy Kidd was murdered in Peel Region,” he said.

“I was working in the Hold Up Squad at the time. It just doesn’t affect the people that are working in that bank. It affects the entire banking industry when something like this happens. These people are just going about doing their jobs and there is no reason for the escalation in violence whatsoever.”

Crate said there were 591 bank robberies last year, a new low, that he attributes to the number of arrests police services across the country make each year.

“It sends a very clear message to potential criminals that, if you rob a bank, you will get caught,” he said.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416−808−7350, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416−222−TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, 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.

Public Awareness Campaign, Needhelpnow.ca

Toronto Police Service
News Release

Public Awareness Campaign, Needhelpnow.ca

Monday, April 22, 2013 - 1:10 PM
Sex Crimes Unit:  416-808-8500

Youth today are managing a variety of challenging issues and, while technology has certainly opened up new opportunities, it has also had an impact on teens’ lives in ways no one could have imagined.

In creating the Needhelpnow.ca, the Canadian Centre for Child Protection is letting these kids know that they are never alone.

The Toronto Police Service Child Exploitation Section supports the Needhelpnow.ca initiative. Kids can visit the site for information on how to remove pictures posted online, how to obtain coping tools and to learn how to report online incidents that have gone too far.

You can show your support for the initiative by sending personal tweets or re-tweeting, using words that include #YouthAreNotAlone and/or #NeedHelpNow.ca.

For further information, please contact Detective Constable Michele Bond, at 416-808-7361.

Constable Tony Vella, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Michele Bond, Sex Crimes Unit, Child Exploitation Section