Police warning public of group swarming robberies in Vaughan
Posted June 24, 2022 5:27 pm.
Last Updated June 24, 2022 5:35 pm.
York Regional Police are out with a public warning urging residents to be cautious when approached by strangers after several similar-style “swarming” robberies in Vaughan in recent weeks.
Police say they responded to a number of evening robberies in the area of Jane Street and Norwood Avenue on June 11 and June 18. In each incident, the victims reported being swarmed by a large group of people .
In one specific incident on June 11, a male victim was in the area picking up food when he was aggressively approached by a group of youth after exiting a restaurant. Police allege the group demanded alcohol, cigarettes and his food.
The male was followed by the group to his car when they started hitting and kicking his vehicle. One member of the group opened the back door of the vehicle and took the male’s food from inside.
Police say the victim made an attempt to get his stolen food back but ended up being swarmed by the group again. The suspects attacked him and stole his wallet.
One of the suspects, a 16-year-old male, has been arrested and charged with mischief and cause of disturbance. The investigation is ongoing.
Police are urging anyone who was a victim of a similar type of robbery to come forward.
Residents are also encouraged to consider the following safety tips to help prevent these offences.
- Trust your instincts and be aware of your surroundings
- If you suspect you are being followed, call 9-1-1
- If you are approached by thieves, try to remain calm and comply. Don’t fight back
- Head to a safe location and call 9-1-1 as soon as possible
- Try to note distinct characteristics of the robber, surfaces touched, any weapon description and direction they fled
“Officers will remain active and aggressive in these areas to combat this issue,” reads a release from York Regional Police. “Investigators continue to work with community members and business owners in the area to gather video surveillance, report incidents and apprehend those responsible for these offences.”
