Durham Regional Police have apprehended a man and a woman on multiple drug-related charges following a dramatic attempted escape in Oshawa earlier this week. The incident unfolded in the early hours of Monday morning, resulting in serious allegations against both suspects.
Early Morning Police Response
According to official statements from Durham Regional Police, officers were dispatched to investigate a report of a suspicious vehicle in the vicinity of Rosedale Avenue and Division Street around 2 a.m. on Monday. This location is situated near the intersection of Simcoe Street North and Bond Street East in Oshawa.
High-Speed Flight Attempt
Police allege that a red sedan was observed traveling at excessive speeds and failing to stop at multiple stop signs. When officers attempted to initiate a routine traffic stop, the vehicle reportedly refused to pull over, leading to a brief pursuit.
The suspect vehicle was later discovered abandoned a short distance from the initial encounter. Officers conducted a thorough search of the surrounding area and successfully located and arrested both the male and female suspects without further incident.
Drugs Discovered in Vehicle
During a subsequent search of the abandoned red sedan, police allegedly uncovered a significant quantity of illicit substances. The seized drugs included cocaine, crystal methamphetamine, and ecstasy, all classified as Schedule I substances under Canadian law.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
The female suspect, identified as 29-year-old Natasha Robitaille of no fixed address, faces an extensive list of charges. These include:
- Failing to stop for police
- Dangerous operation of a conveyance
- Obstructing police
- Stunt driving
- Possession of cocaine
- Possession of crystal methamphetamine
- Possession of ecstasy
- Breaching probation
Robitaille was detained in custody pending a bail hearing to determine her release conditions.
The male suspect, 40-year-old Joseph James Harley Crozier of Clarington, faces charges of possession of cocaine, crystal methamphetamine, and ecstasy. Unlike his alleged accomplice, Crozier was released from custody on an undertaking, which typically involves specific conditions he must follow while awaiting trial.
Police Investigation Continues
Durham Regional Police have indicated that their investigation into this incident remains active. Authorities are appealing to the public for any additional information that might assist their case.
Investigators are particularly interested in obtaining any cellphone footage, dashcam recordings, or security camera video that could provide further evidence about the events surrounding the attempted escape and drug possession. Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to contact Durham Regional Police directly or provide anonymous tips through Crime Stoppers.
This arrest highlights ongoing law enforcement efforts to combat drug-related activities in the Durham Region. The combination of traffic violations, attempted evasion of police, and possession of multiple controlled substances represents a serious breach of public safety laws that authorities continue to address through vigilant policing and community cooperation.
