In a joint effort between Hamilton Police officers, vigilant community members and business owners, four individuals were arrested in connection with a series of criminal offences that unfolded yesterday.

On Thursday, November 9, 2023, at approximately 9:30 a.m., four masked individuals entered KC convenience on Parkdale Avenue North wielding a knife, and made demands upon the business owner. After a failed attempt, the suspects fled in a stolen white Honda van. After calling police this engaged business owner quickly thought to use his group chat with other business owners in the area to alert them to what had just happened. A short time later the same four suspects who were still masked arrived at the Big Bee convenience which is located on Barton Street East however the employee had been alerted to the robbery attempt in the area, saw the masked individuals and secured the door before entry was made. The suspects fled the area and attended the Wholesale Club. In the parking lot of the Wholesale Club located on Barton Street East the suspects approached an individual and attempted to rob them of their vehicle. The suspects were unsuccessful and continued to flee in the white Honda van. The fleeing van then stuck another vehicle in the intersection of Nash Road North and Barton Street East. The four suspects fled the collision and were quickly located and arrested by our officers.

Charges:

Male Youth (16 years old, Etobicoke):

·        Two counts of YPC robbery with intent to steal

·        YPC Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000

·        YPC Disguise with intent

·        YPC Robbery with violence

Male Youth (16 years old, Toronto):

·        Two counts of YPC robbery with intent to steal

·        YPC Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000

·        YPC Disguise with intent

·        YPC Robbery with violence

·        YPC Fail to comply with release order

Veron Francois (18 years old, Brampton):

·        Two counts of robbery with intent to steal

·        Disguise with intent

·        Robbery with violence

·        Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000

Takai Glen (18 years old, Etobicoke):

·        Two counts of robbery with intent to steal

·        Disguise with intent

·        Robbery with violence

·        Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000

All four individuals will appear in court at a future date. Three remain in custody following a bail hearing today.

Community Collaboration:

Hamilton Police Service expresses heartfelt gratitude to the vigilant community members, including store clerks and local businesses, for their prompt response, cooperation, and assistance in contacting police. The collective efforts of the community played a pivotal role in the successful apprehension of these individuals, ensuring the safety and well-being of our residents.

Safety Reminders:

Community members are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity promptly.

Personal safety is paramount; avoid direct confrontation and contact police immediately.

Hamilton Police is commitment to maintaining the safety and security of our community and deeply appreciates the continued support and collaboration with its residents.

If you have any information that you believe could assist police with the investigation into these crimes please contact Detective Sergeant Groombridge by calling 905-546-2991.

To provide information anonymously, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your anonymous tips online at http://www.crimestoppershamilton.com