SIU invokes mandate after officer discharges weapon during flight from police
Inc. 24-01566
On Friday, January 12, 2024, at approximately 3:30 a.m., patrol officers with the Brantford Police Service observed a suspicious vehicle in gas station parking lot located at Fairview Drive and West Street.
The vehicle was occupied by a lone male. When officers approached the vehicle to speak with the driver, there was an interaction and an officer on scene discharged his firearm.
The male fled the scene in his vehicle. Officers quickly located and arrested the accused at a Roy Boulevard location.
No injuries to the public or police occurred as a result of the incident.
The accused, a 43-year-old male non-resident of Branford was arrested. Charges have not yet been laid.
As an officer’s firearm was discharged at a person, as required by law, Brantford Police Service have notified the province’s Special Investigation Unit (SIU) which has invoked its mandate. As such, Brantford Police Service will be unable to provide further information or comment related to the incident.
Any further inquiries may be directed to SIU communications at: Kristy.Denette@ontario.ca
Public Safety in Partnership with the Community
Brantford police seek to identify robbery suspect
24-01431
Brantford police are investigating the robbery of a retail business and are seeking information from the public to help identify the suspect.
On Thursday, January 11, 2024, at approximately 6:40 A.M., members of the Brantford Police Service responded to a report of an armed robbery of a commercial business located at Colborne Street West near Oak Street.
Information was received to indicate the suspect entered the business where he brandished a knife, threatened the store employee, demanding cash. The suspect obtained an unknown quantity of cash and fled the scene on foot.
Brantford police K-9 unit attended to assist with the search for the suspect.
Image: suspect photo
Suspect Description:
Male, white, in his 30’s, wearing a black hoody, blue pants, black gloves with grey stripes, and a black mask over his face.
Anyone with information related to this investigation is asked to contact the Brantford Police Service at 519-756-7050. Information can also be provided anonymously to Brant - Brantford Crime Stoppers by 1-800-222-8477 or by submitting a web tip online at: https://www.crimestoppersbb.com/submit-a-tip/
Public Safety in Partnership with the Community
BPS strategic public safety efforts see zero homicides in 2023
While gun violence and the impact of organized crime continues to challenge police services throughout Ontario, the Brantford Police Service concluded 2023 with zero homicides.
Homicide investigations are complex and require significant resources. The Brantford Police Service last experienced a homicide rate of zero in 2015:
Image: chart
In 2022, BPS launched a specialized unit, the Tactical Intelligence Generated Response and Enforcement Unit (T.I.G.E.R) and, in 2023 the High Enforcement Action Team (H.E.A.T) was established to ensure we are working efficiently to combat gun and gang related violence, drug production and distribution, and related negative community safety impacts within the City of Brantford.
A stratified approach to public safety, as advocated by the Brantford Police Service, has been implemented and is proving to be immensely successful. This approach includes organized community mobilization, private security, proactive by-law enforcement, Special Constables and regular Police Constables to address the public safety needs of the community. Chief Davis noted, "I want to thank Mayor Davis and the Police Board that supported the vision.”
These initiatives, along with a disciplined approach to front-line policing, are realizing positive impacts for the safety of Brantford city-wide.
The Brantford Police Service is thoroughly committed to working with our government and community partners to meet the public’s safety and wellness needs based on evidence, research, and partnerships.
Innovative programs and partnerships have been implemented in an effort to improve safety and pro-actively decrease crime rates. Brantford Police Service is focused to maintain and improve cost-effectiveness and efficiency when it comes to maximizing the public’s investment in police services. We are committed to deliver the community safety services that residents of Brantford want and expect.
"The Brantford Police Service is thoroughly committed to modernizing and enhancing the public safety service we provide to our local community. We strive to continually improve collaboration and teamwork between law enforcement agencies to keep our community safe. I extend my gratitude and appreciation to the dedicated police officers and civilian staff who work tirelessly to meet the needs of our growing community.” Rob Davis, Chief of Police.
Public Safety in Partnership with the Community
Graduated licence drivers not following the rules
During the last month, multiple drivers who are bound by the restrictions of a Graduated (G2) Driver’s Licence have been stopped by Brantford Police Service traffic patrol officers while conducting speed enforcement on Brantford roadways.
All of the violations occurred in zones where the posted speed limit is either 40 or 50 km/hr.
As required by law, as part of the administrative suspension penalty for the offence of stunt driving, the vehicles were seized and held for 14 days. The accused have also been issued a 30-day administrative drivers license suspension.
Image: chart of stunt driving charges
What is stunt driving?
- Driving 40 km/hr or more over the speed limit on roads with a speed limit less than 80 km/hr
- Driving 50 km/hr or more over the speed limit
- Driving 150 km/hr or more anywhere in the province – including sections of freeways with limits of 110 km/hr
- Driving in a way that prevents other vehicles from passing or intentionally cutting off another vehicle
- Intentionally driving too close to another vehicle, pedestrian, or fixed object
- Driving in a manner to intentionally cause a vehicle to spin/turn in circles
Penalties for stunt driving
Effective April 1, 2022, under the Highway Traffic Act, the Ontario government increased penalties for those caught stunt driving.
Drivers who are convicted of stunt driving in the province of Ontario must complete a driver improvement course within 60 days of conviction, or their licence will be cancelled.
Anyone caught driving 40 km/hr or more above the speed limit, where the speed limit is set at less than 80 km/hr, will face stunt driving charges.
In areas where the speed limit is above 80 km/h, a motorist will face stunt driving charges if travelling more than 50 km/hr above the limit.
Drivers also face a 30-day roadside driver’s licence suspension, and a 14-day vehicle impoundment.
The maximum fine for stunt driving in Ontario is $10,000. Convicted drivers could also face up to six months in prison.
Public Safety in Partnership with the Community
Traffic Stops Result in Arrests, Seizure of Weapons, and Illegal Drugs
24-00268, 24-00274
During two separate traffic stops on January 3, 2024, patrol officers with the Brantford Police Service seized multiple firearms, illegal drugs, and arrested two men.
On Sunday, January 3, 2024, at approximately 1:15 a.m., officers with the Brantford Police Service conducted a traffic stop after observing a suspicious motor vehicle in the area of Colborne Street and Park Avenue.
The driver of the vehicle was identified, and information was received to indicate he was currently wanted by the Brantford Police Service on a valid warrant.
As a result, the accused was subsequently placed under arrest.
During the arrest, an officer observed a single bullet, in plain view, in the vehicle.
Search incident to arrest of the motor vehicle located the following:
- A loaded .45 calibre firearm
- Approximately 19.4 grams of suspected Fentanyl with an approximate street value of $3880 (Schedule I)
- Approximately 54 grams of suspected Cocaine-crack with an approximate street value of $5400 (Schedule I)
- 60 suspected Hydromorphone pills with an approximate street value ranging between $900 and $3000 (Schedule I)
- Eight (8) suspected Morphine pills with an approximate street value of $120 (Schedule I)
- 309 suspected Alprazolam pills (derivative of Benzodiazepines Schedule IV)
- 82 suspected Methylphenidate pills (Schedule III)
- 868 suspected Hydromorphone Dilaudid (8mg) pills with a street value ranging between $17,360 and $43,400. (Schedule I)
Officers also located brass knuckles with a folding blade within the vehicle.
Members of the Brantford Police Service K-9 Team provided assistance with the search.
Investigation revealed that the accused does not have a Possession and Acquisition License and is not legally to be in possession of a firearm.
As a result of the incident, a 20-year-old male non-resident of Brantford stands charged with the following Criminal Code and Controlled Drugs and Substances Act:
- Unauthorized possession of firearm
- Unauthorized possession of firearm
- Occupant of motor vehicle knowing there was a firearm
- Possession of prohibited restricted firearm with ammunition
- Careless use of firearm
- Possession of weapon for dangerous purpose X 2
- Possession for the purpose of trafficking schedule I - Fentanyl
- Possession for the purpose of trafficking schedule I - Cocaine-crack
- Possession for the purpose of trafficking schedule I - Hydromorphone c
- Possession for the purpose of trafficking schedule IV - Benzodiazepines
- Possession for the purpose of trafficking schedule III - Methylphenidate
The accused was held for bail.
On Sunday, January 3, 2024, at approximately 4:30 a.m., officers with the Brantford Police Service were conducting speed enforcement on Colborne Street East when a vehicle was observed speeding. The vehicle was recorded to be travelling 91 km/hr in a posted 50 km/hr zone and a traffic stop was conducted.
Speaking with the driver, officers observed suspicious behaviour. The driver was then arrested.
Search incident to arrest located two restricted firearms in possession of the accused, in addition to the following:
- Multiple rounds of ammunition
- Approximately 7.1 grams of suspected crystal methamphetamine with an estimated street value of $710
- Approximately 49.9 grams of suspected cocaine with an estimated street value of $4,990
As a result of the incident, a 24-year-old male resident of Brantford stands charged with the following Criminal Code and Controlled Drugs and Substances Act violations:
- Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking, to wit: Crystal Methamphetamine
- Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking, to wit: Cocaine
- Careless Use of a Firearm X 2
- Possess Weapons Dangerous X 2
- Carry Concealed Weapon X 2
- Unauthorized Possession of Firearm X 2
- Possession of Firearm in motor vehicle X 2
- Possession of Restricted firearm with ammunition X 2
- Tampering with a serial number
The accused was held for bail.
BPS investigate stabbing, seek witness information
24-00235
At approximately 5:30 p.m., Tuesday, January 2, 2024, officers with the Brantford Police Service responded after receiving a 911 call to report a 44-year-old male victim was stabbed at a motel located on Colborne Street near James Avenue.
The victim was transported to hospital for treatment of life-threatening injuries.
This investigation is active and ongoing. The incident is not believed to be random. No arrests have been made at this time.
Any witnesses are asked to contact BPS at 519-756-7050. Information can also be provided anonymously to Brant - Brantford Crime Stoppers by calling 519-750-8477 or 1-800-222-8477 or by submitting a web tip online at: https://www.crimestoppersbb.com/submit-a-tip/
Public Safety in Partnership with the Community
46-year-old female charged after stabbing
23-54302
Officers with the Brantford Police Service have arrested a woman believed responsible for an early morning assault.
On Thursday, December 7, 2023, at approximately 7:15 a.m., officers with the Brantford Police Service were dispatched to attend a residence on Marlborough Street after receiving a 911 call to report an assault involving two women.
Officers attended and located both individuals at the residence. A female victim was located with what appeared to be a non-life-threatening stab wound to her leg. The victim was transported to receive medical treatment.
Information received indicated that the accused was in violation of a valid court order.
As a result of the incident, a 46-year-old female resident of Brantford was arrested and stands charged with the following Criminal Code violations:
- Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose
- Disobeying court order
- Assault with a weapon x 2
The accused was held for bail.
Public Safety in Partnership with the Community
Illegal guns recovered, two arrested
23-51639
Members of the Brantford Police Service High Enforcement Action Team (HEAT) and Tactical Intelligence Generated Enforcement and Response Unit (TIGER) launched a firearm investigation in November 2023.
As a result of the investigation, on Sunday, November 19, 2023, judicial authorization was received to search two Brantford residences. The search warrants were executed with the assistance of the Brantford Police Services Emergency Response Team, K-9, and uniform patrol. Four stolen firearms were recovered by officers. The firearms were previously reported as stolen from a residence located in a neighbouring jurisdiction.
Two Brantford residents, a 28-year-old female and a 29-year-old male, were arrested and stand charged with a number of firearms related offences under the Criminal Code.
The investigation is ongoing.
Anyone that would like to report criminal activity within the community is asked to contact the Brantford Police Service at 519-756-7050. Anonymous information can be provided by contacting Brant- Brantford Crime Stoppers at 519-750-8477 or 1-800-222-8477. Alternatively, a web tip may be submitted at: https://www.crimestoppersbb.com/submit-a-tip/
$10,000 reward offered in ongoing Jeffrey Roberts’ homicide investigation
16-43981
Image: photo of homicide victim
Detectives with the Brantford Police Service continue to investigate the 2016 homicide of 45-year-old Jeffrey James Roberts.
Jeffrey Roberts was reported missing on November 11, 2016, after he had not been seen or heard from since November 5, 2016. He was found deceased on November 21, 2016, when a citizen located his body in a field near the West Street/Highway 403 overpass. His death was ruled a homicide.
A large-scale canvas of area residents and businesses was conducted.
Detectives continue to appeal to the public to come forward with any information related to the case.
Although 7 years have passed, officers remain committed to finding the person(s) responsible for the murder of Jeffrey Roberts. A $10,000 reward is now being provided for information that leads to the conviction of the person(s) responsible. Police continue to believe that there are members of the public who have information that will be beneficial to the case and are hopeful that someone will come forward.
Anyone with any information related to the case is asked to contact Detective Constable Jason Sinning with the Brantford Police Service at 519-756-7050 ext 2800 or robertshomicide@police.brantford.on.ca
Additionally, information can also be provided anonymously to Brant - Brantford Crime Stoppers by calling 519-750-8477 or 1-800-222-8477 or by submitting a web tip online at: https://www.crimestoppersbb.com/submit-a-tip/
BPS HEAT Unit arrest four, seize $137,190 in illegal drugs
23-039723
Members of the Brantford Police Service High Enforcement Action Team (HEAT) launched a drug investigation in August 2023, dubbed Project White Rhino, to target the illegal trafficking of drugs in the City of Brantford.
As a result of the investigation, on Thursday, November 9, 2023, three Controlled Drugs and Substances Act search warrants were granted. With the assistance of the Brantford Police Services Emergency Response Team, Tactical Intelligence Generated Enforcement and Response Unit (TIGER), the Criminal Intelligence Unit, K-9 and uniform patrol, the warrants were executed at three separate locations: Paris Road, Seneca Crescent, and Banks Street.
Following the operation, the following items were seized:
- Cannabis edibles, with an estimated street value of $7,302
- Approximately 6,355 grams of cannabis (bud), with an estimated street value of $95,325
- Approximately 1,0000 grams of cannabis (hash), with an estimated street value of $25,000
- Approximately 381 grams of psilocybin (schedule III), with an estimated street value of $3,615
- Approximately 62.4 grams of suspected Methamphetamine (schedule III), with an estimate street value of $6,240
- Canadian currency
- Multiple cell phones
- Large quantity of packaging materials
The total estimated street value of the seized illicit drugs is $137,190.
As a result of the investigation, four Brantford residents have been arrested and stand charged with numerous Cannabis Act and Controlled Drugs and Substances Act charges.
Anyone that would like to report criminal activity within the community is asked to contact the Brantford Police Service at 519-756-7050. Anonymous information can be provided by contacting Brant- Brantford Crime Stoppers at 519-750-8477 or 1-800-222-8477. Alternatively, a web tip may be submitted at: https://www.crimestoppersbb.com/submit-a-tip/