York Regional Police have announced a fourth arrest in connection with a sophisticated, months-long series of residential break-ins across York Region. The investigation, targeting overnight thefts from unoccupied homes, has so far led to dozens of charges and the recovery of stolen property, including jewelry, handbags, and cash.
Coordinated Thefts Target Unoccupied Homes
According to authorities, the Integrated Property Crime Task Force (IPCTF) launched its probe in October 2024 into a string of break-ins believed to be the work of the same group. Police allege the suspects carried out coordinated overnight crimes, employing advanced techniques to avoid detection.
Investigators say the individuals disabled security systems and cameras by cutting wires and used radio frequency jammers. They specifically targeted high-value items that were easily portable, swiftly moving stolen goods from the homes to waiting vehicles.
Multi-Force Investigation Leads to Arrests
The investigation, dubbed Project Lone Wolf, involved collaboration between York Regional Police, Durham Regional Police, Halton Regional Police, and the Ontario Provincial Police. This joint effort was crucial for identifying suspects, gathering evidence, and locating additional victims.
The primary suspect, Sean Mackey, 48, of Toronto, was arrested on November 19 on two outstanding warrants. Since his arrest, he has been hit with a total of 37 criminal offences linked to 28 residential break-and-enters that occurred between January 2024 and October 2025.
Police have released Mackey's photograph, believing he may be connected to additional, unreported incidents. A search warrant executed at a Toronto residence led to the recovery of stolen property.
Police Seek to Return Stolen Property to Owners
In an effort to return unclaimed items to their rightful owners, investigators have created a Dropbox folder containing photos of the recovered property. Police are inviting anyone who was a victim of an overnight break-in between April and November 2025—where entry was gained by smashing rear-door glass—to review the images.
If victims recognize their belongings, they are urged to contact police to initiate an ownership verification process. This step is part of the ongoing effort to close cases and return valuables.
This latest arrest follows charges laid against three other individuals earlier this year. In May 2025, police announced charges against:
- Lucien Viau, 52, of Oshawa: Charged with break-and-enter commit, two counts of possession of property obtained by crime, and conspiracy.
- Robert Mills, 67, of Oshawa: Charged with two counts of break-and-enter commit and conspiracy.
- Shane Charles, 48, of Whitby: Charged with break-and-enter commit and conspiracy.
Authorities continue to search for two more suspects: Patricia Mackey-Moreira, 22, of Toronto, and an unidentified 18-year-old man. Both are wanted on charges related to possession of property obtained by crime valued over $5,000.
The investigation remains active. York Regional Police are asking anyone with information to contact the IPCTF at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7232, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or online at 1800222tips.com.
