BPS seeking witnesses of collision
23- 47342
The Brantford Police Service are seeking information from anyone who may have witnessed a collision involving a motorcycle that occurred at approximately 6:10 p.m., Thursday, October 19, 2023, in the area of Hardy Road and Paris Road.
Any witnesses or anyone with information, including dashcam or surveillance footage of the collision, are asked to contact Constable Rob Hall at 519-756-0113 ext. 2844.
Public Safety in Partnership with the Community
CRIME BRIEF: October 17, 2023
Type: Impaired
Incident: 23-46821
Location: Market Street and Icomm Drive
On Monday, October 16, 2023, at approximately 12:10 a.m., officers with the Brantford Police Service were dispatched to the area of Market Street and Icomm Drive after receiving a report of a possible impaired driver.
Officers attended, located the vehicle, and conducted a traffic stop.
Speaking with the driver, officers observed signs of impairment.
The accused was arrested, issued a breathalyzer demand, and transported to provide samples of breath as required by law. Both samples of breath were over the legal limit.
As a result, a 22-year-old male non-resident of Brantford stands charged with the following Criminal Code offences:
- Operation While Impaired by Alcohol
- Operation while Impaired - Blood Alcohol Concentration
Additionally, the driver’s licence of the accused was suspended, and the vehicle impounded.
Type: Theft
Incident: 23-46758
Location: Lynden Road and Wayne Gretzky Parkway
On Sunday, October 15, 2023, at approximately 5:20 p.m., officers with the Brantford Police Service were dispatched after receiving a report of a theft from a business located at Lynden Road and Wayne Gretzky Parkway.
As a loss prevention officer had attempted to detain the accused from the store, he was allegedly assaulted by the accused with a sharp weapon.
Officers attended, located, and arrested the accused.
Further investigation revealed that the accused was in violation of multiple probation and judicial release orders.
Search incident to arrest located a knife in the possession of the accused.
As a result, a 38-year-old non-resident of Brantford stands charged with the following Criminal Code offences:
- Theft Under $5,000
- Assault
- Assault with A Weapon
- Probation Order non-compliance
- Failure to Comply with Judicial Release/ Non-Comm Order – Release Order
The accused was held for bail.
Type: Uttering Threats
Incident: 23-46634
Location: Wayne Gretzky Parkway and Edmondson Street
On Saturday, October 14, 2023, at approximately 5:30 p.m., officers with the Brantford Police Service were dispatched to a restaurant in the area of Wayne Gretzky Parkway and Edmondson Street after receiving a report of a disturbance.
It was reported that a man had created a disturbance within the restaurant and was asked to leave by staff.
The accused allegedly became verbally abusive to staff when asked to leave, which further escalated to threats of violence from the accused.
Officers attended the scene. The accused was located and arrested.
As a result, a 63-year-old male resident of Brantford stands charged with the following Criminal Code offence:
- Uttering Threats to Cause Death or Bodily Harm
The accused was held for bail.
Type: Break and Enter
Incident: 23-46568
Location: Hilda Street
On Saturday, October 14, 2023, at approximately 4:00 a.m., officers with the Brantford Police Service were dispatched to attend a Hilda Street residence after receiving a report of an in-progress break and enter.
The accused was allegedly yelling and banging aggressively on windows of the residence.
Officers attended, located, and arrested the accused.
Upon further investigation, officers learned the accused had allegedly damaged the front door of the residence.
As a result, a 21-year-old male non-resident of Brantford stands charged with the following Criminal Code offences:
- Break, enter a dwelling house with intent to commit indictable offence
- Mischief under $5,000
- Cause disturbance
- Trespass Near Dwelling House
Type: Assault
Incident: 23-46382
Location: Colborne Street and Kiwanis Way
On Thursday, October 12, 2023, at approximately 6:45 p.m., officers with the Brantford Police Services were dispatched to a business located on Colborne Street near Kiwanis Way after receiving a report of an assault.
A loss prevention officer at the store reported to have observed the accused allegedly concealing items, making no attempt to purchase the items before leaving the store.
The loss prevention officer attempted to arrest the accused when a physical altercation ensued. Witnesses reported that the co-accused attempted to assist the accused outside of the store who was resisting arrest and attempting to escape custody. The co-accused allegedly assaulted the loss prevention officer.
The victim sustained minor physical injuries as a result of the assault.
Officers attended, located, and arrested a male and female attempting to leave the area.
Search incident to arrest revealed the accused to be in possession of the items allegedly stolen from the business.
As a result, a 39-year-old female resident of Brantford stands charged with the following Criminal Code offences:
- Assault
- Theft under $5,000
- Possession of Stolen Good under $5,000
- Resist Arrest
Additionally, a 40-year-old male resident of Brantford also stands charged with the following Criminal Code offence:
- Assault
Type: Impaired
Incident: 23-46203
Location: Erie Avenue
On Wednesday, October 11, 2023, at 5:40 p.m., officers with the Brantford Police Service were dispatched to the area of Erie Avenue near Birkett Lane after receiving a report of a motor vehicle collision involving a possible impaired driver.
Officers attended, located the accused with the suspect vehicle, that had allegedly struck another vehicle. Speaking with the accused, officers observed signs of impairment.
The accused was placed under arrest and transported to provide samples of breath as required by law. However, the accused refused to comply with the demand.
Further investigation revealed that the accused was in violation of a valid release order.
As a result, a 52-year-old male non-resident of Brantford stands charged with the following Criminal Code, Highway Traffic Act, and Canadian Automotive Insurance Act offences:
- Operation While Impaired – Alcohol and Drugs
- Failure or Refusal to Comply with Demand
- Owner Operator Motor Vehicle on Highway – No Insurance
- Drive Motor Vehicle – No Licence
- Drive Motor Vehicle – No Permit
Additionally, the driver’s licence of the accused was suspended, and the vehicle impounded.
Type: Impaired
Incident: 23-46689
Location: Brant Road 18 and Colborne Street East
On Sunday, October 15, 2023, at approximately 4:00 a.m., officers with the Brantford Police Service were dispatched to the intersection of Brant Road 18 and Colborne Street East after receiving a report of a possible impaired driver.
Witnesses reported that a vehicle was allegedly stopped in the intersection.
Officers attended, located the vehicle, which was occupied by a lone female driver slumped over the driver’s seat.
Speaking with the driver, officers observed signs of impairment.
Roadside testing was conducted, which indicated a "fail”. The accused was then placed under arrest and transported to provide samples of breath required by law.
Both samples provided were over the legal limit.
Search incident to arrest located an open bottle of liquor in the vehicle.
As a result, a 28-year-old female non-resident of Brantford stands charged with the following Criminal Code and Liquor Licence Control Act offences:
- Operation While Impaired
- Operation While Impaired – Blood Alcohol Concentration
- Having Care or Control of a Motor Vehicle with Open Container of Liquor
Additionally, the driver’s licence of the accused was suspended, and the vehicle impounded.
Type: Theft Under
Incident: 23-46181
Location: Colborne Street and Kiwanis Way
On Wednesday, October 11, 2023, at approximately 3:40 p.m., officers with the Brantford Police Service were dispatched to a business located on Colborne Street near Kiwanis Way after receiving a report of theft.
A loss prevention officer at the store reported to have observed the accused allegedly concealing items, making no attempt to purchase the items before leaving the store.
Officers attended and located the accused. The accused refused to comply with officers during arrest. The items alleged to be stolen were located in possession of the accused and recovered by officers.
Further investigation revealed that the accused was in violation of a valid release order.
As a result, a 22-year-old male resident of Brantford stands charged with the following Criminal Code Offences:
- Theft under $5,000
- Obstruct Police
- Breach of Probation
Type: Assault
Incident: 23-46179
Location: Colborne Street and Kiwanis Way
On Wednesday, October 11, 2023, at approximately 1:40 p.m., officers with the Brantford Police service were dispatched to a location at Colborne Street near Kiwanis Way after receiving a report of an assault.
Officers attended and through investigation, learned that a verbal altercation between the accused and the victim had escalated to physical violence.
Witnesses reported that the accused was observed striking the victim repeatedly with a closed fist causing the victim to fall to the ground. The victim sustained minor physical injuries and was transported to hospital for treatment.
As a result, a female youth stands charged with the following Criminal Code offence:
- Assault
The information being released is in accordance with the YCJA (Youth Criminal Justice Act).
Type: Theft Under
Incident: 23-46156, 23-46157
Location: Holiday Drive
On Monday, October 2, 2023, at approximately 1:40 p.m., officers with the Brantford Police Service were dispatched after receiving a report of thefts from a Holiday Drive business.
On two separate occasions loss prevention officers reported to have observed the accused allegedly concealing items, making no attempt to purchase the items before leaving the store.
Officers attended and, through investigation identified and arrested the suspect.
Further investigation revealed that the accused was in violation of a valid release order.
As a result, a 28-year-old male resident of Brantford stands charged with the following Criminal Code offences:
- Theft Under $5,000
- Breach of Probation
Charges issued in BPS Back-to-School Road Safety Blitz
Image: image of fines
A total of 61 charges were laid as a direct result of this road safety initiative. Speeding accounted for 32 of the charges laid.
In addition to the speeding related charges, this road safety initiative also saw one charge issued for the use of a cell phone while driving, two charges for stop sign violations, and 26 additional charges, varying from moving violations to missing vehicle documentation.
With children back in school, and an increase of motorists on our roadways, BPS continues to urge motorists and pedestrians to commute safely, free from distractions and to continue to use extra caution when travelling through residential areas, school zones and along bus routes. Please slow down and be alert for children travelling to and from school. Community safety is a shared responsibility.
For more information and further clarification regarding the rules of the road, please visit the Ministry of Transportation website.
Public Safety in Partnership with the Community
Full-scale emergency exercise prepares Brantford first responders for critical situations
Image: photo of chief and officer walking down sidewalk
In an effort to enhance the preparedness and effectiveness of first responders, Brantford Police Services, in collaboration with Brantford Fire, Brantford-Brant Paramedics, and representatives of the City of Brantford Emergency Management Program, conducted a full-scale emergency exercise on Thursday, October 5, 2023. The exercise, held at the former Victoria Academy at 40 Richmond Street in Brantford, was designed to simulate a high-stress, real-life scenario of an active shooter situation.
These drills are a crucial part of our commitment to ensuring the safety of our community and the coordinated response of our first responders. By simulating challenging and high-pressure situations, we can assess and enhance our readiness to protect the lives and well-being of our citizens.
Police Chief Rob Davis emphasized the importance of such exercises in ensuring the readiness and interoperability of all first responder agencies in the city stating, "The safety of our community and our ability to respond in a time of crisis is our top priority. Full-scale emergency exercises are an invaluable tool for training and preparing all of our first responders to react swiftly and effectively in high-stress situations. It is through these drills that we fine-tune our response strategies and ensure that our emergency personnel are fully equipped to handle any critical incident."
The exercise, which involved a multi-agency response, tested the coordination and communication between Brantford's emergency services. It provided an opportunity for participants to evaluate their actions, identify areas for improvement, and refine emergency response protocols.
The Brantford Police Service and its partners remain committed to continually improving emergency preparedness, and exercises like this one are instrumental in achieving that goal. The safety and well-being of our citizens are at the forefront of our efforts, and we will continue to work diligently to ensure that our first responders are ready to protect and serve in any emergency situation.
Our thanks to the students from Six Nations Polytechnic and Mohawk College who volunteered to participate as actors in this exercise.
Public Awareness: Noted increase in youth-related violence
The Brantford Police Service have noted an increase in serious youth-related violence within Brantford which has raised concerns within the community.
Youth-related violence is a serious problem that can have lasting, harmful effects on victims and their family, friends, and communities.
Working in close partnership with the Grand Erie District School Board and the Brant Haldimand Norfolk Catholic School Board, the Brantford Police Service would like to reassure the community that these incidents are being addressed and proactive measures are being implemented to ensure the safety and well-being of our community’s youth.
The Brantford Police Service would also like to take this opportunity to remind parents and caregivers of the importance of monitoring the social activity of their young children. Often youth are hesitant to come forward and could downplay an incident as they may fear retaliation from bullies.
To report a crime, contact the Brantford Police Service at 519-756-7050. To provide information anonymously, please call Brant-Brantford Crime Stoppers at 519-750-8477 or 1-800-222-8477 or by submitting a web tip online at: https://www.crimestoppersbb.com/submit-a-tip/
BPS continue to investigate case of Baby Parker; with renewed appeal to community for information
05-26062
Image: memorial photo
The Brantford Police Service remain dedicated to the investigation of Baby Parker and the search to identify the child’s mother and/or father, with a renewed appeal to members of the community for information.
On July 28, 2005, Brantford police responded to the area of the walking trails near Dufferin Avenue and Parkside Drive, after a citizen discovered the body of a full-term, newborn baby boy.
The death of the baby has since been the subject of an ongoing police investigation. To this date, neither the mother nor the father has been identified. As the identity of the baby is unknown, he was named Baby Parker by officers.
August 17, 2023, will mark the 18-year anniversary of the memorial service and date in which Baby Parker was laid to rest.
The investigation led to the largest canvass completed by Brantford police. Hundreds of DNA samples were collected from members of the public living in the neighbourhood where Baby Parker was found. The samples were sent to the Center of Forensic Sciences; however, none were found to have a biological link to Baby Parker.
Several ‘Persons of Interest’ have been identified over the years; however, investigators have since eliminated those individuals as being the mother or father.
Excerpts of a letter collected during the initial phases of the investigation were previously released, with the hopes that someone would recognize the handwriting. The letter, purportedly written by the mother of Baby Parker, indicated that she would be in contact with police in the coming days. No such person ever came forward.
Image: handwriting sample
Image: handwriting sample
The Ontario Provincial Police previously assisted with statement analysis through their Behavioural Sciences Section and generated a profile of the mother. Information previously released to the public indicated that in 2005, the mother may have been between 13-17 years old, with a connection to the Holmedale neighbourhood. The pregnancy was possibly kept secret by the mother from those close to her.
Although 18 years have passed, officers remain committed to finding Baby Parker’s mother, father, or anyone else who may have information to assist in providing closure on the case. Police continue to believe that there are members of the public who have information that will be beneficial to the case.
Detectives remain hopeful that information from the community, combined with the utilization of new investigative technology, may help build a familial lineage to move the case forward.
Anyone with any information related to the case of Baby Parker is asked to contact Detective Constable Chris Fleming at 519-756-7050 ext 2851.
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/
Brantford police warn residents about new grandparent text scam
The Brantford Police Service would like to advise older adult residents after becoming aware of a new version of what is referred to as the "Grandparent Scam” targeting older citizens via text messaging.
A text message is sent to the victim, from a scammer who is posing as the victim’s son or daughter. The text often starts with "Hi, Mom,” and continues to tell the victim that their phone has been damaged, they cannot access their banking information and need money urgently. They then ask for an e-transfer of funds. If questioned about the email address of phone number being used, the fraudster will often tell the victim that they owe money to a loan shark or are using a borrowed phone.
Additionally, in other versions of the "Grandparent Scam,” reports have been received where suspects have falsely identified themselves as a Brantford Police Officer and/or an R.C.M.P officer. If a member of the public ever has a concern regarding the identity of an officer, their identity can be confirmed by contacting BPS at 519-756-7050 with the name and badge number of the individual in question.
Grandparent or Emergency Scam – What is it?
This type of fraud occurs when the fraudster contacts the victim, claiming a family member is in crisis and needs money. Although the fraudster can claim to be any family member (e.g., aunt, uncle, child) or friend, grandparents may be particularly vulnerable.
A call or a text is made from someone claiming the victim's child, grandchild or family member is in trouble. They have even been reported to impersonate the child, grandchild or family member. Often, they say that they have been arrested or involved in a collision and need money. Usually, the victim is instructed to send money immediately.
Sometimes a second call will be made from someone pretending to be a lawyer or police officer. Scammers will advise the victim that a payment for bail or a fine is required to have their loved one released. If the victim agrees to pay the requested amount, suspects will arrange to pick up the funds in person with a "courier” or will ask the victim to send cash in the mail. The victims are often told they cannot talk about the investigation with anyone and advised that they will go to jail if they talk about it.
The Brantford Police Service wish to remind residents of the importance of fraud education and protecting oneself from becoming a victim. We also encourage spreading the word to those, such as the elderly, who may be particularly vulnerable to these fraudsters and may be targets of these high-pressure scams.
TIPS TO PROTECT YOURSELF:
- Take time to think. The fraudster will make it sound urgent and will pressure you.
- Contact the family member in question. Emotions may be running high but take the time to check.
- Ask questions only family members would know.
- Call someone you trust or police for an opinion about the call.
- If you suspect it is a scam, it may be - just hang up. Conduct your own research to determine validity.
- Do not send any money.
If you believe that you have been a victim of fraud and reside in the City of Brantford, contact the Brantford Police Service at 519-756-7050 and your financial institution immediately. You can also report online at: https://www.brantfordpolice.ca/accessible/online-reporting
If you have not experienced a financial loss but have received a fraudulent call, such as the Grandparent scam, please report the incident by calling the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or http://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraud.ca/index-eng.htm
Accused now facing charges including attempted murder
23-23188
As a result of the interactions which occurred on May 29, 2023, the accused was advised of the following charges on Thursday, June 8, 2023.
A 27-year-old man from Paris, stands charged with the following Criminal Code violations:
- Attempt to commit murder
- Dangerous operation of vehicle
- Flight from police officer
- Failure to stop after accident
The accused was scheduled to attend a bail hearing, June 13, 2023.
The province’s Special investigations Unit remains involved in this incident and, as such, the Brantford Police Service is unable to provide further comment at this time.
Any further inquiries may be directed to SIU communications at: Kristy.Denette@ontario.ca
May 29, 2023
SIU invokes mandate after man injured during arrest
On Monday, May 29, 2023, at approximately 2:15 p.m., members of the Brantford Police Service were conducting an investigation that led to an interaction with an adult male at an address in Paris, Ontario. As a result of the interaction, the man was transported to hospital for treatment.
As required by law, Brantford Police Service has 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.
Police will remain at locations in Paris and Brantford locations throughout the evening. Motorists and pedestrians are asked to use alternate routes and avoid the area if possible.
We would like to advise the public that there is no threat to public safety.
Any further inquiries may be directed to SIU communications at: Kristy.Denette@ontario.ca
Public Safety in Partnership with the Community
BPS issuing auto theft awareness reminder
The Brantford Police Service are issuing an auto theft awareness reminder to the public regarding a vehicle theft trend previously reported in the City of Brantford. This trend, while only one method utilized by criminals to steal vehicles, is known as "Relay and Reprogramming” technology. In an effort to increase awareness to help make vehicles more secure and less attractive to thieves, we are issuing a reminder.
Reports indicate that the vehicles targeted by relay and reprogramming technology are newer model, high-end vehicles with keyless entry and push start technology. The thefts typically occur in the overnight hours.
While not all motor vehicle thefts occur using this technology, by increasing awareness, it is the goal of BPS to reduce vehicle thefts. In 2022, 321 vehicles were reported as stolen to the Brantford Police Service. 89 vehicles have been reported stolen to date in 2023.
"The Brantford Police Service is thankful for the recent announcement by the Provincial Government to increase funding opportunities and to develop collaborative, multi-jurisdictional teams to combat auto theft. These initiatives will be instrumental in our efforts to address auto theft in our community.” -Chief Rob Davis, Brantford Police Service
How does relay vehicle theft work?
The suspect will approach a residence and use technology to find a key fob signal from inside a residence. The technology allows the suspects to remain outside the residence to amplify and transfer the key fob signal in order to unlock, start and steal the vehicle. The theft of the vehicle will typically be undetected until the morning when the owner discovers their vehicle has been stolen and they are still in possession of their key fob.
How does reprogramming vehicle theft work?
The suspects will approach the vehicle and force entry inside. Once inside the vehicle an electronic device is used to access the vehicles diagnostics. The suspects then reprogram a blank key fob so the vehicle can be started and steal the vehicle.
How to protect your vehicle from theft?
- Park your vehicle inside a locked and secure garage.
- Block the access to the onboard diagnostic port to prevent thieves from reprograming the vehicle’s key fob. (A simple device can be purchased online).
- Use a steering wheel locking device to deter theft.
- Place the vehicle key fob inside a radio frequency shielding bag/pouch to block cell signals when not in use. Inside your residence and in a purse or pocket.
- Consider equipping your vehicle with an aftermarket global positioning system (GPS) tracker. The tracker may assist police in locating the vehicle and/or suspects.
- Ensure all keys are accounted for and never left in the vehicle or unattended.
- Lock your vehicle at all times.
- Never leave your vehicle running and unattended.
- Consider purchasing a surveillance system and ensure the quality and function will capture any suspicious activity for a 24-hour period.
If you observe suspicious people in your neighborhood, looking into vehicles, we encourage you to report this to police immediately. Doing so will assist investigators to track patterns of criminal behavior and potentially identify suspects.
A crime in-progress can be reported by calling 9-1-1. Any non-emergency incidents can be reported on-line at Brantfordpolice.ca or by calling 519-756-7050.
Additionally, information can be provided anonymously to 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
Brantford Police Service launching new technology to enhance service to citizens
The Brantford Police Service are launching a new
technology to improve and enhance communication with the residents of Brantford.
The new technology, called SPIDR Tech, is software that will automatically send text messages to victims of crime or community residents who report crime, as well as provide surveys to gauge community trust and satisfaction with the service.
Effective Wednesday, January 18, 2023, automated text messages will be sent to community residents who call police on an SMS enabled device to report the following types of incidents: break and enter, theft, fraud, property damage, and motor vehicle collisions involving property damage or are classified as a hit and run.
Once a report is received, the person who initiated the report will receive a text message with information about their report including confirmation the report was received, the occurrence number, updates on officer arrival, as well as follow-up surveys to provide feedback regarding the level of satisfaction with the service received.
The new technology, called SPIDR Tech, is software that will automatically send text messages to victims of crime or community residents who report crime, as well as provide surveys to gauge community trust and satisfaction with the service.
Effective Wednesday, January 18, 2023, automated text messages will be sent to community residents who call police on an SMS enabled device to report the following types of incidents: break and enter, theft, fraud, property damage, and motor vehicle collisions involving property damage or are classified as a hit and run.
Once a report is received, the person who initiated the report will receive a text message with information about their report including confirmation the report was received, the occurrence number, updates on officer arrival, as well as follow-up surveys to provide feedback regarding the level of satisfaction with the service received.
"The Brantford Police Service is thoroughly committed to modernizing and enhancing the public safety service we provide to our local community. By utilizing SPIDR Tech, we strive to reduce the number of calls to the communications centre requesting report status updates. This will allow communicators to mobilize officers as efficiently as possible. Additionally, the survey responses provided by the public will generate insights that can be applied to day-to-day decision making, improving how we connect with the community and how we can work together to improve community safety,” said Rob Davis, Chief of Police.
SPIDR Tech is currently utilized by several other police services within North America and was created by a California-based company of former law enforcement officers to help police services improve communication, transparency, and service delivery to the public.
Public Safety in Partnership with
the Community