Peel Police BEAR Unit Apprehends Suspect Linked to 31 Break-and-Enter Incidents
In a significant law enforcement breakthrough, Peel Regional Police have arrested Kenneth Levy, a 39-year-old resident of Mississauga, in connection with a series of break-and-enter offences across the region. The arrest culminates a months-long investigation by the specialized Break and Enter Auto Response (BEAR) Unit, which has charged Levy with a total of 62 criminal offences.
Details of the Arrest and Charges
According to police reports, Levy is believed to be responsible for 31 break-and-enter incidents that occurred between September 2025 and February 2026. The alleged crimes targeted small businesses in industrial areas, with stolen items including laptops, phones, and cash, amounting to approximately $200,000 in losses. In one notable case, Levy allegedly stole 15 laptops valued at $35,000 from a Mississauga business.
Levy was apprehended on March 24, 2026, with the assistance of multiple police services, including Kingston Police, Ottawa Police, Cornwall Community Police, and VIA Rail. He was located aboard a train en route to Montreal and taken into custody. The charges against him include 27 counts of break-and-enter with intent to commit an indictable offence and 27 counts of using a disguise to commit a crime.
Role of the BEAR Unit
The BEAR Unit, established to combat property crimes, has demonstrated impressive effectiveness since its inception. In just six months, the unit has made 55 arrests, laid 366 charges, and recovered hundreds of pieces of stolen property, including 184 stolen vehicles. Peel Regional Police Chief Nishan Duraiappah emphasized the unit's proactive approach, stating, "Through proactive enforcement and inter-agency collaboration, the BEAR Unit continues to target and dismantle individuals and organized groups causing harm in our communities."
Chief Duraiappah added that property crimes significantly impact community safety and daily life, underscoring the police force's commitment to zero tolerance for such offences. The collaboration with other agencies was crucial in tracking Levy, who had evaded capture for weeks, with police previously issuing public appeals for information on his whereabouts.
Suspect Description and Legal Proceedings
Levy was described as a Black male, 5-foot-7, approximately 180 pounds, with short black hair, brown eyes, and a dark complexion. During the alleged crimes, he was often seen wearing a black North Face jacket, black pants, a blue Nike hat, and a COVID-19-style mask. Following his arrest, Levy was held in custody pending a bail hearing and is expected to face additional charges from Toronto Police and Halton Regional Police. It is important to note that all charges are allegations, and Levy is considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts of Peel Regional Police to address property crime through specialized units and inter-agency cooperation, aiming to restore a sense of security among residents and businesses in the region.
