Hamilton Police have issued a public warning following two disturbing incidents in which a male suspect impersonated an undercover police officer to rob unsuspecting victims in the downtown area this week. The suspect, who remains at large, targeted individuals in separate encounters on Monday, exploiting their trust in law enforcement.
Details of the Robberies
The first incident was reported at 8 a.m. near the intersection of Cannon Street East and Wellington Street North. According to police, the victim had just exited a store when they were summoned to a black vehicle. The suspect, seated inside, claimed to be an undercover cop and stated that the victim matched a suspect's description. He then demanded the victim surrender their wallet for identification. Once the wallet was handed over, the suspect fled the scene.
Approximately 90 minutes later, a second incident occurred in the King and Ashley Streets area. The victim was walking when approached by the same suspect, who again identified himself as an undercover officer. This time, the suspect told the victim they were being detained for a bike theft. After patting down the victim, he took their cellphone and debit card, promising to place the items in an evidence bag in his vehicle. However, he never returned.
Suspect Description and Vehicle
Police have released a description of the suspect in hopes of generating leads. He is described as approximately 25 years old, standing 5-foot-5 with a larger build. He has short brown hair and a tattoo above his left eye. At the time of the incidents, he was wearing a multi-coloured baseball cap, a colourful top, and black pants. The suspect was operating a black SUV that resembled a police vehicle.
Police Advice and Public Safety
In their warning, Hamilton Police emphasized that legitimate officers will always clearly identify themselves. Officers wear identifiable police-issued clothing and carry both a badge and an official warrant card. Members of the public have the right to request proper identification if approached by someone claiming to be a police officer.
Authorities urge anyone with information about these incidents to come forward. Tips can be provided by contacting Hamilton Police at 905-546-4725 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or crimestoppershamilton.com.
Related Arrests in Gas Station Robberies
In a separate but concurrent investigation, Hamilton Police have charged two men in connection with a series of gas station robberies across southern Ontario. The investigation, which began in February, identified a pattern of overnight break-ins between February 24 and April 1, with 21 incidents believed to be linked.
Police executed search warrants on April 8 at two Hamilton residences, arresting Christopher Claros, 37, and Nickolas Claros, 38. Both face multiple charges, including break and enter, possession of property obtained by crime, and drug trafficking-related offences. Seven stolen vehicles were recovered during the investigation.
Anyone with additional information on this case is asked to contact detectives at the provided numbers or use Crime Stoppers anonymously.
