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
Additional Arrest in Brayden Ferrall Homicide Investigation
Inc # 22-6841 - UPDATE
The Brantford Police Service continue to investigate the homicide of Brayden Ferrall and have arrested a man in relation to the investigation.
On Thursday, October 20, 2022, detectives with the Brantford Police Service charged 28-year-old Baron BRADING-SEARLES of Brantford, with accessory after the fact to murder in relation to the homicide of Brayden Ferrall. The accused was held for bail.
The Brantford Police Service, Major Crime Unit continue to investigate this matter as a homicide. At this time, police are unable to release further details surrounding the nature of the homicide and the investigative process as this is an active and on-going homicide investigation. We thank you in advance for your understanding and cooperation.
The Brantford Police Service continues to ensure that Brayden’s family receives the support they require during this difficult time. We would like to thank the public for their demonstrations of support during this investigation.
Investigators are encouraging members of the public to come forward with any information that they may have in relation to this investigation. Please contact police by using the dedicated tip-line: 519-756-7050 ext. 2800 or FerrallMissingPerson@police.brantford.on.ca
Anonymous information can also be provided to the Brant-Brantford Crime Stoppers at 519-750-8477 or 1-800-222-8477. Alternatively, a web tip may be submitted at https://crimestoppersbb.com/submit-a-tip/
Inc # 22-6841 - UPDATE
June 13, 2022
The Brantford Police Service continue to investigate the homicide of Brayden Ferrall and have arrested a female in relation to the investigation.
On Thursday, June 9, 2022, detectives with the Brantford Police Service charged 26-year-old Kathleen Bacon of Brantford, with accessory after the fact to murder in relation to the homicide of Brayden Ferrall.
The Brantford Police Service, Major Crime Unit continue to investigate this matter as a homicide. At this time, police are unable to release further details surrounding the nature of the homicide and the investigative process as this is an active and on-going homicide investigation. We thank you in advance for your understanding and cooperation.
The Brantford Police Service continues to ensure that Brayden’s family receives the support they require during this difficult time. We would like to thank the public for their demonstrations of support during this investigation.
Investigators are encouraging members of the public to come forward with any information that they may have in relation to this investigation. Please contact police by using the dedicated tip-line: 519-756-7050 ext. 2800 or FerrallMissingPerson@police.brantford.on.ca
Anonymous information can also be provided to the Brant-Brantford Crime Stoppers at 519-750-8477 or 1-800-222-8477. Alternatively, a web tip may be submitted at https://crimestoppersbb.com/submit-a-tip/
May 11, 2022
Detectives with the Brantford Police Service are now investigating the disappearance of Brayden Ferrall as a homicide after receiving confirmation from the Office of the Coroner that a body located in the County of Brant on May 3, 2022, is that of missing person, Brayden Ferrall.
On May 3, 2022, the Brantford Police Service became aware of a discovery of a deceased person in the area of Campbell Road and Old Onondaga Road East in the County of Brant.
At the time of the discovery, police were unable to positively identify the deceased or determine the cause of death prior to the completion of a post- mortem examination. Detectives with the Brantford Police Service assisted the Ontario Provincial Police with the death investigation.
On Wednesday, May 11, 2022, the Office of the Coroner identified the body to be that of Brayden Ferrall. The results of the post-mortem indicated that Ferrall was the victim of a homicide.
The Brantford Police Service is working closely with Brayden’s family to provide them with support during this difficult time.
"During the missing person investigation, we have seen an outpouring of concern from many of Brayden’s friends and would like to remind those who may need assistance to contact Victim Services of Brant, as they can provide immediate support,” said Detective Constable Torek of the Brantford Police Service.
Ferrall had previously been reported as missing to the Brantford police in February 2022, after he failed to return home as expected. Ferrall was last seen by friends on February 18, 2022.
The missing person case was assigned to the Criminal Investigation Section, and on March 28, 2022, police announced that they suspected foul play in Ferrall’s disappearance.
The Brantford Police Service - Major Crime Unit are continuing to investigate this homicide. As this is an active and on-going investigation, police are not able to release details surrounding the nature of the homicide. This is not believed to be a random incident.
Detectives are again appealing to members of the public to come forward with any information they may have relating to this investigation. Please contact police by using the dedicated tip-line: 519-756-7050 ext. 2800 or FerrallMissingPerson@police.brantford.on.ca
Anonymous information can also be provided to Brant-Brantford Crime Stoppers at 519-750-8477 or 1-800-222-8477. Alternatively, a web tip may be submitted at https://crimestoppersbb.com/submit-a-tip/
Victim Services of Brant can be contacted by visiting their website at: https://victimservicesbrant.on.ca/
Image: photo - missing person
Inc # 22-6841
March 28, 2022
Investigators suspect foul play in the continued search for missing person Brayden
FERRALL
Detectives with the Brantford Police Service continue to
actively investigate the disappearance of 22-year-old Brayden FERRALL.
On February 22, 2022, Brayden was reported as missing to
the Brantford Police Service after not being seen or heard from for several
days. This behaviour was reported by friends and family to be out of character
for Brayden.
Described as a 22-year-old Caucasian male, 5’10”, 175lbs,
medium build with short brown hair and a trimmed beard, Brayden was last seen
wearing a black winter jacket with fur around the hood.
Since the date FERRALL was last seen, police have requested
the assistance of the public through various media outlets on several
occasions. Additionally, a dedicated tip-line
was established for members of the community to reach out to police with any
information.
Police have received multiple phone calls and Crime Stoppers
tips and wish to thank those members of the public who have come forward and
spoken to officers. Detectives continue
to encourage anyone who may have information to share it with investigators.
A police liaison has been in regular contact with
Brayden’s family, sharing updates on the investigation and will continue to
offer any available support during this time.
Since the time he was last seen, police have interviewed
known associates and friends.
Additionally, multiple canvasses have been conducted in an effort to
obtain any information or video that may be available to assist in locating
Brayden.
It has been just over six weeks now since Brayden has
been missing and police continue to have a dedicated detective team assigned to
the investigation. Due to the
circumstances surrounding Brayden’s disappearance and the information learned
to date, police are suspecting that foul play is involved. Detectives from the
Brantford Police Services Major Crimes Unit are leading this investigation.
The lead investigator, Detective Constable Torek believes
there is someone out there who has information that is vital to the
investigation. "If you know something, regardless of how minor you think it
is to the investigation, we need you to come forward and report it to police,”stated Det./Cst. Torek.
The Brantford Police Service is encouraging anyone who
has any information to contact police by using the dedicated tip-line:
519-756-7050 ext. 2800 or FerrallMissingPerson@police.brantford.on.ca
Anonymous information can also be provided to
Brant-Brantford Crime Stoppers at 519-750-8477 or 1-800-222-8477. Alternatively, a web tip may be submitted at https://crimestoppersbb.com/submit-a-tip/
The Brantford Police Service is appreciative of the
information that has been received from the public and remain dedicated to the
search for Brayden.
As this investigation is active and ongoing, additional
updates will be provided as available.
March 10, 2022
The Brantford Police Service are conducting continued efforts to locate missing person, Brayden Ferrall.
Brayden Ferrall has been missing for approximately three weeks and there are concerns for his safety. Family and friends have advised that this type of behaviour is out of character for Brayden.
Brayden is described as a 22-year-old Caucasian male, 5’10”, 175lbs, medium build with short brown hair and a trimmed beard. Brayden was last seen wearing a black winter jacket with fur around the hood.
Brayden Ferrall is known to frequent the Eagle Place area in Brantford.
The Brantford Police Service is seeking the public’s assistance and is asking for anyone with knowledge of Brayden Ferrall’s whereabouts to contact Det/Cst. Torek of the Brantford Police Service at 519-756-7050 ext. 2272.
Additionally, dedicated tip line has been set up to receive information: 519-756-7050 ext. 2800 or FerrallMissingPerson@police.brantford.on.ca
Anonymous information can be provided to Brant-Brantford Crime Stoppers at 519-750-8477 or 1-800-222-8477. Alternatively, a web tip may be submitted at https://crimestoppersbb.com/submit-a-tip/
ORIGINAL RELEASE:
February 23, 2022
The Brantford Police Service is seeking the public’s assistance in locating a missing 22-year-old male, Brayden FERRALL.
Brayden was last seen on February 18, 2022, and is described as male, Caucasian, 5’10”, 175 lbs., medium build with short brown hair.
Brayden is known to frequent the Eagle Place area and does not own a vehicle. Family and friends have advised that this type of behaviour is out of character for Brayden. Police would like to speak with anyone who may have seen or heard from Brayden since he was last in contact with those close to him.
Anyone with knowledge of Brayden’s whereabouts is asked to please contact Detective Justin Torek of the Brantford Police Service at 519-756-7050 ext. 2272. Anonymous information can be provided to 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/
Public Safety in Partnership with the Community
BPS arrest 18-year-old man in homicide investigation
UPDATE:
Brantford police continue to investigate the homicide of a Brantford man that occurred Thursday evening at a Henry Street residence.
The victim has been identified as a 60-year-old man who was known to the accused. The victim’s name is not being released at this time out of respect for the family.
18-year-old, Aedyn James Pickering, of Brantford was arrested at the scene, and is charged with first degree murder.
Pickering appeared in bail court this morning and was remanded into custody.
Members of Brantford Police Service remain on scene at the Henry Street residence.
Police are not looking for any other suspects.
22-40131
September 29, 2022
One man is deceased, and another is in police custody after a disturbance at a Henry Street residence earlier this evening.
On Thursday, September 29, 2022, at approximately 7:30 p.m., officers with the Brantford Police Service responded to a disturbance at a residence located on Henry Street, near Stanley Street.
Upon arrival, officers located the male victim, who had sustained life-threatening injuries.
In addition to the Brantford Police Service, Brantford Fire and Brant County Paramedics also responded.
The victim received medical treatment and was transported to hospital. Despite receiving life-saving efforts he succumbed to his injuries.
An 18-year-old man was taken into custody at the scene.
At this time, the Brantford Police Service would like to advise the public that there is no threat to public safety as a result of this incident.
This investigation is active and ongoing.
Additional information will be released once available.
BPS Charge Second Man with 1st Degree Murder in Homicide Investigation
Incident # 22-20178
UPDATE #3 – September 1, 2022
As a result of the ongoing investigation into the homicide of Peter POTTRUFF, detectives with the Brantford Police Service charged a second man – Jason EDELMAN, 36, of Brantford, with Murder – 1st Degree on August 31, 2022.
This investigation remains active and ongoing.
Anyone with information related to this incident is asked to contact Detective John Allan of the Brantford Police Service at 519-756-7050 ext. 2266.
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 Arrest 34-year-old man with 1st Degree Murder in Homicide Investigation
UPDATE #2 – August 30, 2022
As a result of the ongoing investigation into the homicide of Peter POTTRUFF, detectives with the Brantford Police Service charged Joseph Cunningham Davis, 34, of Brantford, with Murder – 1st Degree on August 29, 2022.
This investigation remains active and ongoing.
Detectives have interviewed a number of individuals but believe there may be additional individuals who may have witnessed the incident or who may have information related to the investigation.
Anyone with information related to this incident is asked to contact Detective John Allan of the Brantford Police Service at 519-756-7050 ext. 2266.
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/
Incident # 22-20178 – UPDATE
BPS investigating homicide after assault victim succumbs to injuries
June 20, 2022
Detectives with the Branford Police Service are now investigating a homicide after the victim of a serious assault succumbed to his injuries early this morning.
On Wednesday, May 25, 2022, at approximately 6:00 p.m. members of the Brantford Police Patrol section responded to reports of an assault in an area along the Grand River near the Brant’s Crossing Riverfront Skateboard Park on Icomm Drive.
Upon police arrival, a 49-year-old male victim was located with head injuries. He was transported to hospital for treatment of serious injuries.
The investigation revealed the victim was involved in an alleged property dispute with another group of individuals, during which time he was assaulted.
The suspects fled the area prior to police arrival and a K-9 track was completed.
Due to the severity of the injuries, members of the Brantford Police Service Major Crime Unit and Forensic Identification Section were assigned to investigate.
From the onset of the investigation, police have worked with the family of the victim to provide support and updates related to the progress of the investigation.
In the early hours of Monday, June 20, 2022, despite having received life-saving efforts, the victim, Brantford resident Peter POTTRUFF died as a result of the injuries sustained during the assault.
Police have now upgraded this to a homicide investigation.
Detectives are aware a number of citizens were in the area at the time of the incident and are hoping to speak with these individuals. Based on the information provided to date, police do not believe this was a random attack, and feel that those who were present at the time of the assault may have valuable information that will assist in identifying the person(s) responsible. Anyone with information related to this incident is asked to contact Detective John Allan of the Brantford Police Service at 519-756-7050 ext. 2266.
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/
June 9, 2022
ORIGINAL RELEASE
BPS seek information from public related to assault
Investigators with the Brantford Police Service continue to investigate an assault and are seeking information from the public to help identify the suspect.
On Wednesday, May 25, 2022, at approximately 6:00 p.m., officers with the Brantford Police Service were dispatched to attend a reported assault in the area of the Brantford Civic Centre and the Brant’s Crossing Riverfront Skateboard Park on Icomm Drive.
Investigation revealed that an unknown male suspect had struck a 49-year-old male victim in the head with a baseball bat. The victim sustained serious injuries and was transported to hospital for treatment.
The incident took place in a wooded area located behind the Brantford Civic Centre between the asphalt-walking path and the Grand River.
Information received indicated that several persons involved in the incident and numerous possible witnesses allegedly left the area prior to police arrival.
Officers would like to speak with anyone who may have witnessed this incident or who may have information they have not previously provided to police. Please contact the Branford Police Service Criminal Investigations Unit with any information you may have.
Anyone who has any information related to this incident is asked to contact the Brantford Police Service at 519-756-7050.
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/
Public Safety in Partnership with the Community
OPP UPDATE - Amber ELLIS Investigation
Image: OPP Header
FROM/DE: Haldimand County Detachment
DATE: August 26, 2022
-UPDATE #1-
MISSING WOMAN FROM HAGERSVILLE
Your Tip Could Make a Difference
(HALDIMAND COUNTY, ON) – Police believe someone has important information that will help investigators solve the disappearance of 33-year-old Amber ELLIS and are encouraging members of the public to come forward.
On March 8, 2021, Amber was reported missing by her mother. She was last seen near the end of February 2021 on Six Nations of the Grand River First Nation. Prior to her disappearance, Amber lived at an address in Hagersville, Ontario. Amber also has ties to the Brantford, Cambridge, Hamilton and Norfolk County areas.
Amber is 5’9” tall, 120 lbs, with a thin build, long dark hair, and brown eyes.
The OPP have a dedicated team of investigators working under the direction of the OPP’s Criminal Investigation Branch, along with investigators from Haldimand County OPP, the Brantford Police Service and Six Nations Police Service, who are committed to locating Amber.
On December 21, 2021, police posted a video to encourage witnesses who have information about Amber’s disappearance to contact investigators. The video can be found on YouTube at the link below. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6NDT5iC8rLA&ab_channel=OntarioProvincialPolice
"After interviewing dozens of witnesses, I believe that there are additional witnesses who have information that can help solve this case and I encourage them to contact police immediately.” – Detective Inspector Chris Josiah, OPP Criminal Investigation Branch.
Anyone with information that can assist investigators are encouraged to call the OPP Amber ELLIS tip line at 1-866-549-2090 or the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or leave an anonymous online message at www.helpsolvecrime.com where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2000.
- 30 -
Contact: Constable Mary Gagliardi
Email: mary.gagliardi@opp.ca
ARRESTED: 1st Degree Murder
Incident # 22-29385
UPDATE:
On Tuesday, August 9, 2022 at approximately 11:30 p.m., Rorey HILL, 38, and Jessica POERBA, 41, were arrested without incident for the offence of Murder - 1st Degree.
As this investigation remains active and ongoing, additional details including the identity of the deceased and manner of death will not be released at this time.
July 25, 2022
Detectives with the Branford Police Service have issued warrants for the arrest of two individuals for the offence of Murder – 1st Degree and are seeking information from the public.
On Friday, July 22, 2022, at approximately 5:00 p.m. members of the Brantford Police Patrol responded to a death investigation at a Colborne Street address.
Upon police arrival, a 68-year-old male victim was located deceased. Circumstances of the investigation led police to having grounds to issue warrants for the arrest of: Jessica POREBA, 41 and Rorey HILL, 38, for the offence of 1st Degree Murder.
The victim and accused parties were known to each other.
The identity of the deceased and manner of death will not be released at this time.
Jessica Elizabeth POREBA, 41
Image: Suspect Photo
Image: suspect photo
DESCRIPTION:
- 5’4”
- 115 lbs
- Thin build
- Blue eyes
- Black hair that is shaved on the sides - may have blonde hair now
- Flower tattoo upper right arm
- Butterfly tattoo upper chest
- Black cat tattoo right bicep
- Caucasian
Rorey Grant Tyler HILL, 38
Image: suspect photo
Image: suspect photo
DESCRIPTION:
- 5’5”
- 160 lbs
- Medium build
- Hazel eyes
- Brown hair or short shaved hair
- Spider web tattoo right elbow
- Tattoos on left forearm / upper arm
- Scar upper lip
- Indigenous
If observed, please do not approach and contact police.
Officers would like to speak with anyone who may have information regarding this investigation.
Anyone who has any information related to this incident or to the location of the wanted parties are asked to contact the Brantford Police Service at 519-756-7050.
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/
Public Safety in Partnership with the Community
Suspect Identified in 1983 Disappearance of Mary Hammond
Image: Mary Hammond Photo
Thirty-nine years after the disappearance of Mary Hammond, detectives with the Brantford Police Service have identified a man believed to be responsible.
On September 8, 1983, at approximately 3:30 a.m., Mary Emma Hammond (nee Bisenthal) left her townhouse on Elgin St., to walk to work. Mary was scheduled to work the early morning shift at the former Buns Master Bakery, at 110 Morton Avenue, where she had worked for approximately one year.
Walking north on Park Road North (now Wayne Gretzky Parkway) she passed the Massey-Ferguson factory and cut across the field towards the rear of the bakery.
At approximately 4:00 a.m., a co-worker called Mary's husband asking why she had not arrived at work. Mary’s footprints were followed to the property line at the rear of the bakery and to a point where Mary cut across a field. They then disappeared.
Police were notified. Evidence at the scene included some items from her lunch: a cup, a dish, and a half-eaten apple. One of Mary's white sockettes and a small quantity of blood were located in an area of the field.
At the time of her disappearance, Mary Hammond was 25 years old, 5'10", 140 lbs., with long straight reddish-brown hair, brown eyes, and a fair complexion. Mary was last seen wearing a blue, mauve, and red lumber jacket, blue jeans, a yellow t-shirt, and white Adidas running shoes with a silver stripe.
Through continued investigation, police were able to identify evidence in Mary Hammond’s disappearance. This evidence has helped investigators over the years to identify people who may have been involved in Mary’s disappearance.
On September 11, 1983, during the initial stages of the investigation, a search warrant was executed at a Memorial Drive residence. Evidence seized at this time was examined and remained in police custody.
Through this historical evidence seized and with advancements in mitochondrial DNA analysis, investigators were able to forensically link Mary Hammond to a man believed to be responsible for her abduction and murder.
Mitochondrial DNA analysis is an investigative tool that is relatively new to policing. Thru additional investigation, research, and interviews, utilizing this tool can lead to the identification of persons of interest in historical cases such as this.
As a result of the ongoing investigation, detectives with the Brantford Police Service have identified Stephen MUDKO as the individual believed to be responsible for the abduction and murder of Mary Hammond.
At the time of Mary’s disappearance, MUDKO was 36-years-of-age and resided in a home on Memorial Drive in Brantford.
Stephen MUDKO died on June 16, 2010. However, if he were alive today and able to stand trial, he would face the following charges:
- Abduction
- Murder – 1st Degree
The Brantford Police Service are releasing a historical photograph of Stephen MUDKO in the hopes that it may provide additional information which could help further this investigation.
Image: Photo of Stephen Mudko
The whereabouts of Mary Hammond are still unknown. Although a suspect has been identified, detectives believe that additional individuals may still have information or knowledge related to the disappearance of Mary Hammond. This investigation is ongoing.
As a result of the advancements in technology and forensic sciences, the continued dedication of our officers, and information from our community, the Brantford Police Service is one step closer to being able to determine what happened to Mary Hammond and bring closure to her family.
Anyone with information regarding Mary Hammond’s disappearance is asked to contact the Mary HAMMOND tip line to leave a voicemail for investigators at 519-756-0113 ext. 2592, or email HammondDisappearance@police.brantford.on.ca
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/
MEDIA CONTACT INFORMATION:
Robin Matthews-Osmond
Corporate Communications Manager
Brantford Police Service
Rmatthews-osmond@police.brantford.on.ca
519-756-0113 ext. 3004
Twitter: @BrantfordPolice
Facebook: @BrantfordPoliceService
83-24791