4 Toronto youths charged in connection to over 50 break-ins, vehicle thefts

York police say three of the accused, including a 13-year-old boy, were arrested during a takedown in Thorncliffe Park Four Toronto youths, including a 13-year-old boy, have been charged following an investigation into a network police believe is responsible for more than 50 break-ins and vehicle thefts across York Region and neighbouring areas. York Regional Police said the investigation, dubbed Project Howler, began after investigators became aware of dozens of incidents in which suspects allegedly entered homes to steal keys to luxury vehicles parked in driveways and garages. Weapons, including firearms, were brandished during some of the alleged thefts, police said. On Aug. 26, investigators located a group of suspects travelling in a vehicle that was reported stolen from Richmond Hill the previous day. The vehicle travelled to the Thorncliffe Park Drive and Overlea Boulevard area at about 11 p.m., where officers conducted a takedown. Three youths were arrested following a brief foot pursuit, according to police. Investigators also recovered seven stolen vehicles. A fourth youth was charged on Aug. 28 in connection with the investigation. The accused include two 17-year-old boys, a 14-year-old boy and a 13-year-old boy, all from Toronto. The two 17-year-olds and the 13-year-old face charges of trafficking in property obtained by crime over $5,000 and multiple counts of possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000. One of the 17-year-olds and the 13-year-old are also charged with possession of an automobile master key. One of the 17-year-olds and the 14-year-old have been charged with dangerous operation, though the 14-year-old also faces a charge of failing to comply with a probation order. The youths cannot be publicly identified under the Youth Criminal Justice Act. Police said investigators continue to review evidence connected to Project Howler and additional charges are anticipated. Anyone with information is asked to contact York Regional Police's Hold-Up Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6630, or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS.