On April 16, 2020, Hamilton Police executed a search warrant at a Wentworth Street North commercial property in Hamilton. The pop-up scrap metal business was buying stolen scrap metal and selling it at a later date out of sea containers and concrete outbuildings during a 24/7 operation.

Police launched an investigation when concerns developed about non-conventional business practices performing within the confines of the property. When Police and City Bylaw executed a search warrant they identified several Bylaw and Criminal offences were occurring.

At the time, 14 people were located living inside sea containers when officers discovered evidence of drug use, $10,000 worth of stolen property, three wanted parties and a male breaching court conditions. The grounds were littered with garbage and unkempt items while operating as an unlicensed business.

Bylaw Charges:

• 2 Licensing Charges (operating without a business licence)
• 6 Yard Maintenance Charges
• 1 EMCPA Charge (Emergency Management and Civil Protection Act) – (operating non-essential business)

Hamilton Police are looking to speak with the scrap business owners as the investigation continues. The displaced individuals were all supported with alternate living arrangements.

Items Recovered

• CO2 C8 air rifle
• Lincoln welder
• 6 Dynaglow industrial heaters
• Ipower gas generator
• Stihl concrete saw
• Makita hammer drill – auger
• 2 air compressors
• Gas power pressure washer
• Industrial exhaust fan
• Chainsaw and reciprocating saw

If you are the rightful owner of one of the listed items or can assist with information about this investigation, please contact Detective Constable Brian Wren at (905) 546-8925 or for any City Bylaw questions, please contact Acting Manager Licensing and Bylaw Services Adam Palmieri at Adam.Palmieri@hamilton.ca.

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