Toronto Police Officer Faces Unauthorized Computer Use Charges
Toronto Police have charged an officer with unauthorized use of a computer, alleging he unlawfully accessed private police databases on multiple occasions between June and December 2025. In a news release issued on Tuesday night, authorities identified the officer as Const. Rifat Hassan, 33, who is scheduled to appear in a Toronto court in July.
Police emphasized that this arrest is not connected to Project South, a major anti-corruption investigation that previously alleged Toronto officers leaked confidential information to organized crime networks. The charges specifically relate to improper database access rather than information sharing with criminal elements.
Separate Gun Arrest in Ajax Following Investigation
In an unrelated development, Durham Regional Police have made an arrest in Ajax following a gun probe. Last Friday, the Guns and Gangs Unit tracked down a man wanted on assault and break-and-enter charges, taking him into custody without incident.
When police investigated where the suspect was staying, they discovered a loaded firearm along with additional ammunition. Dale Blair, 40, of Ajax now faces multiple charges including:
- Possession of a firearm without a licence
- Possession of a loaded firearm
- Possession of a prohibited device
- Possession of a firearm with an altered serial number
- Possession of a firearm while prohibited
Police have requested that anyone with additional information contact the Guns and Gangs Unit at 1-888-579-1520, extension 5800.
Camouflaged Surveillance Camera Discovered in Milton
Halton Regional Police have issued a public warning after the discovery of a camouflaged trail camera in a Milton neighborhood. On April 16, officers responded to a residence where a homeowner found a trail camera and battery pack wrapped in camouflage tape and concealed in shrubs, with the device pointed toward neighboring homes.
Police explained this is a known tactic used by criminals involved in residential break-and-enters. The cameras are deployed to conduct surveillance on target residences, allowing criminals to determine occupancy patterns and identify opportunities to commit offenses when homes are vacant.
Residents are advised to routinely check their properties, particularly during spring cleanup activities. If any suspicious device is discovered, police recommend not touching it and instead contacting authorities who will safely collect the equipment.
Oshawa Youth Accused of Bringing Replica Gun to School
In another separate incident, an Oshawa youth faces charges after police allege a replica firearm was brought to a high school classroom where students were threatened. According to Durham Regional Police, a 14-year-old student at Maxwell Heights Secondary School pulled out the imitation gun during class on April 14 and made threats to fellow students.
The following day, after an investigation, the youth surrendered at East Division. Officers seized the imitation firearm allegedly used during the incident. The teen is charged with possessing a dangerous weapon and uttering threats, and was released on an undertaking.
