12 teens arrested in connection with ‘swarming’ robberies near Canada’s Wonderland

Police in York Region have arrested and charged 12 teens in connection with ‘swarming-style’ robberies that took place in Vaughan last month.

Officers responded to a number of similar incidents in the area of Canada’s Wonderland in June.

Police say the robberies occurred at the theme park and on nearby sidewalks and plazas. In each case the victims reported being swarmed by a large group of youths during evening hours.

“York Regional Police launched Operation Beehave over the Canada Day long weekend, increasing proactive patrol and police presence in areas where the robberies occurred,” reads a police release. “These efforts have been effective, with no reported swarming’s since the start of the project.”

In June, police issued a public warning urging residents to be cautious when approached by strangers after several incidents were reported.

In one specific robbery on June 11, a male victim was in the area picking up food when he was aggressively approached by a group 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.

Twelve youths have been arrested and are facing numerous charges, including robbery, mischief, and causing a disturbance. The suspects range in age from 13 to 17 years old and are from Toronto, Mississauga, Oakville, and York Region.

A 16-year-old suspect was previously arrested in June.

Police say the operation will continue through the summer and investigators will continue to work with Canada’s Wonderland security and business owners in the area.

Due to several of the suspects and victims being teenagers, police are encouraging parents to talk to their children about personal safety and consequences.

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 911
• If you are approached by thieves, try to remain calm and comply, and don’t fight back
• Head to a safe location and call 911 as soon as possible
• Try to note distinct characteristics of the robber, surfaces touched, any weapon description and direction they fled

 

Police are urging anyone who was a victim of a similar type of robbery to come forward.