Two major police operations have resulted in the arrest of several individuals allegedly involved in stealing 100 vehicles from the Greater Toronto Area. The suspects were caught red-handed stealing cars from hotels and parking lots, according to authorities.
Police Take Down Auto Theft Rings
Halton Regional Police have concluded two investigations, Project Joker and Project Disconnect, targeting organized crime groups responsible for numerous vehicle thefts in Halton and the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area. The operations led to multiple arrests and dozens of criminal charges.
Chief Stephen Tanner emphasized that auto theft is not a victimless crime. He stated that it is driven by organized criminal networks that profit at the expense of communities and undermine public safety. Every stolen vehicle creates risk for victims, officers, and the public, as stolen cars are often driven recklessly to evade police.
Project Joker Details
Project Joker began in April after a Lexus SUV was stolen from the Bronte GO Station parking lot. Investigators identified two suspects believed to be members of an organized crime group from Quebec. Police surveilled a rental vehicle associated with the suspects and observed them stealing or attempting to steal vehicles in Oakville and Mississauga. On May 22, officers arrested Dany Hamel-Poirier, 27, and Damian Daneau, 20, both from Montreal. They face charges including three counts of theft of motor vehicle, possession of break-in instruments, and multiple counts of possession of property obtained by crime. Hamel-Poirier was already wanted by several police services in Ontario and Quebec on approximately 40 criminal charges, including auto theft, and was on probation for similar offenses.
Project Disconnect Details
Project Disconnect investigated over 28 vehicle thefts or attempts at hotels in Oakville since January 1. On May 27, police responded to a hotel parking lot where two suspects were attempting to steal a vehicle. Officers arrested Jobanpreet Singh, 21, and Atish Singh, 26, both of Brampton, after they tried to flee. Charges include theft of motor vehicle, possession of counterfeit marks, possession of break-in instruments, and obstructing a peace officer. Jobanpreet Singh was also wanted on a Canada Border Services Agency warrant and was in Canada on a student visa. Atish Singh faces additional charges of flight from police, assault with a weapon, and assault with intent to resist arrest.
The arrests highlight the ongoing battle against organized auto theft in the region. Police hope the new bail provisions will keep the suspects in custody. Chief Tanner expressed concern that the individuals are allegedly linked to more than 100 vehicle thefts while already facing numerous charges and release orders. He called for stricter measures to ensure public safety.
