Three Charged, Fourth Suspect Sought in Over 40 Copper Thefts Across Milton and Halton Hills
Halton Regional Police have announced charges against two men and one woman, with a fourth suspect still at large, following an extensive investigation into a series of copper wire thefts in the Milton and Halton Hills areas. The investigation, which began in early January 2026, targets over 40 incidents where telecommunication cable lines were cut down, stripped of copper, and sold for illicit profit.
Details of the Investigation and Arrests
In response to the surge in thefts, members of the 1 District Project Team consolidated efforts to dismantle a network believed to be responsible for these crimes. On January 30, 2026, around 10:40 p.m., officers responded to a report of copper wire theft near Canyon Road and Campbell Avenue in Milton, leading to the arrest and charging of two suspects.
The following day, on January 31, search warrants were executed on two vehicles and two residences located in Guelph and Erin. During these operations, police seized several items of evidentiary value, including tools, copper wire, and electronic devices. A third suspect was arrested and taken into custody during the execution of these warrants.
Charges and Suspect Information
The accused individuals hail from Guelph, Erin, and Halton Hills. Brendan Boyd, 36, of Guelph, faces nine charges, including:
- Three counts of failing to comply with an undertaking
- Two counts each of possession of property obtained by crime – under $5,000
- Two counts each of possession of property obtained by crime – trafficking
- One count each of theft under $5,000 and possession of a schedule 1 substance – methamphetamines
Benjamin Moffatt, 43, of Guelph, was charged with theft under $5,000. Dawna Mitchell, 36, of Erin, faces charges including two counts each of possession of property obtained by crime – under $5,000 and possession of property obtained by crime – trafficking, along with one count of failing to comply with a release order.
Ongoing Search for Fourth Suspect
Investigators are actively searching for Christopher Lennon, 29, of Halton Hills, who is wanted for possession of property obtained by crime – under $5,000 and possession of property obtained by crime – trafficking. Police urge anyone with information regarding this investigation to come forward.
Halton Regional Police have provided contact details for tips: call 905-825-4777, extension 2416, or contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS). The investigation underscores the ongoing issue of copper theft, which disrupts telecommunications and poses significant safety and economic concerns in the community.
