Four teenagers are facing a long list of charges after police identified a “network” that was responsible for upwards of 50 break and enters in which thieves forced their way inside Toronto-area homes to steal keys belonging to luxury vehicles.
York Regional Police said they launched the investigation, dubbed ‘Project Howler,’ after they learned of dozens of incidents where suspects allegedly entered homes to steal the keys to luxury vehicles parked in driveways and garages.
After a weeks-long investigation, police said they identified a group of suspects linked to a network allegedly responsible for dozens of break-ins and vehicle thefts. Police allege the suspects would brandish weapons, including firearms, during some of these incidents.
On Aug. 26, investigators found a group of suspects driving in a vehicle that had been reported stolen the day before from Richmond Hill.
The vehicle went to the area of Thorncliffe Park Drive and Overlea Boulevard in Toronto at around 11 p.m. that day, where officers said they conducted a takedown.
After a brief chase on foot, police said they arrested three youths. Investigators said they recovered seven stolen vehicles.
Police said they charged the fourth youth in connection with the incidents on Aug. 28.
York police said they charged a group of four boys from Toronto: a 13-year-old, 14-year-old and two 17-year-olds. They face various charges, including possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000.
The teenagers cannot be identified under the provisions of the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
Investigators say that they expect further charges will be laid.
Police are asking anyone with additional information to contact them or anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
