RLP NEWS
York Regional Police have arrested 16 individuals in connection with an organized retail theft ring that saw over $600,000 worth of high-value items stolen across the Greater Toronto Area. The arrests are the result of Project Spartan, a months-long investigation conducted between October 2023 and July 2024.
According to police, the suspects operated in groups, entering stores to steal large quantities of high-value merchandise. In some instances, they allegedly threatened violence or brandished weapons when confronted by store staff. Investigators say the stolen goods were intended for resale.
Authorities claim the group is responsible for a total of $623,852 in stolen merchandise. A total of 1,538 charges have been laid against the suspects, many of which relate to failing to comply with previous release orders. One suspect, a 46-year-old Toronto man, is facing 154 charges, including 133 counts of failing to comply with a release order.
The investigation was supported by retailers such as the LCBO and Home Depot Canada, which worked closely with law enforcement. In a statement, the LCBO emphasized the importance of its partnership with police, calling it “critical in holding criminals accountable.” Home Depot echoed this sentiment, highlighting the value of collaboration in mitigating organized retail crime.
Police are urging anyone with further information to come forward and contact them at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7817, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. Authorities also noted that all 16 suspects were out on release orders at the time of their arrests.