More than 3,000 tips from Crime Stoppers helped York Regional Police make more than 100 arrests and seize 25 weapons and $4.5 million in drugs from the streets last year.
"At York Regional Police, we are proud to partner with Crime Stoppers and we have seen time and time again how (the organization) has helped keep our residents in York Region safe and protected," Chief Jim MacSween at a news conference at York Regional Police Headquarters in Aurora Jan. 14.
With January marking Crime Stoppers Awareness Month, York Regional Police took the opportunity to share their gratitude for their partnership with Crime Stoppers of York Region.
"Crime prevention is a shared responsibility and we cannot do it alone. Crime Stoppers work helps to reinforce that everyone deserves to work and live in safe communities," MacSween added.
Dave Forster, president of Canadian Crime Stoppers, introduced the association's theme "Empowering Through Education, Preventing Through Action."
"Those who wish to remain anonymous in assisting our operations know who to call, and we are looking forward to seeing what is in store (through a continued partnership) in 2025," he said.
Det.-Sgt. Ryan Boulay of the hold-up unit highlighted cases with wanted suspects, including a Newmarket carjacking, a string of spa robberies across York and Toronto and armed home invasion in Vaughan.
Boulay said York Regional Police is doing everything in its power to combat these offences, adding robberies have recently decreased throughout York Region.
Rob Romanek, vice-president of user experience for Renegade Digital Media, said Crime Stoppers is increasing community awareness and education through youth initiatives, including a new social media campaign that aims to combat the sexploitation of teens.
"The more we can educate and engage with teen audiences, both in real life and online, the stronger and safer we can be," Romanek said.
Crime Stoppers of York Region is holding a symposium for secondary students March 4 at the NewRoads Performing Arts Centre in Newmarket.
