Investigators from the York Regional Police Special Enforcement Team (SET), in cooperation with the Liquor Control Board of Ontario (LCBO) Resource Protection Unit and the Home Depot Asset Protection Department, have laid more than 1,500 charges as part of Project Spartan.
Between October 2023 and July 2024, SET and its partners investigated suspects who were believed to be involved in large-scale organized retail theft in York Region and across the Greater Toronto Area.
During these thefts, high-valued items were often stolen with the intent of being resold throughout the community. In some cases, the suspects would work in groups and walk into a store, stealing numerous items and walk out. Occasionally, suspects would resort to threats of violence, either verbally or by brandishing a weapon if approached.
A total of 10 investigations were successfully concluded, which led to 16 arrests.
A total of 1,538 charges were laid, including 797 charges for Failing to Comply with Release Order. At the time of their arrests, all 16 suspects were out on release orders.
The suspects were responsible for a total of $623,852 in retail thefts.
“Our collaboration with police services across the province is critical in holding criminals accountable – even after they have left the store,” says Marty Power, Senior Director, Resource Protection, LCBO. “LCBO will continue to take proactive, collaborative, and substantive actions with our partners to address theft for the safety of our customers and employees.”
“We continue to leverage tools and resources designed to maintain a safe and enjoyable shopping environment. A key aspect of this effort is our ongoing partnership with local law enforcement,”says Paul Dedonato, Director of Asset Protection, The Home Depot Canada. “By working together to effectively mitigate organized retail crime, we can focus more on what truly matters—delivering exceptional customer service and giving back to the communities we serve.”
For a list of charges, see the attached charge sheet.
Anyone with information is asked to call the York Regional Police Special Enforcement Team at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7817, or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, or leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.
Visit our Community Safety Data Portal for complete stats and crime data within York Region. Crime prevention is our shared responsibility. Learn more about Operation Streetview.
Prepared by: Constable Kevin Nebrija
24-25542/30952/42169
September 20, 2024
