4 arrested in break-and-enters targeting GTA auto shops, linked to street racing

Peel Regional Police announced the arrests of four people connected to break-and-enters targeting automobile shops across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).

Investigators said the break-and-enters involved car parts believed to be linked to illegal street racing rings. Peel Regional Police said search warrants were executed throughout the GTA with the assistance of York Regional Police and Toronto Police.

Stolen items were recovered, including two vehicles, in what authorities called Project Erange.

Peel Regional Police identified four people — three men and one woman — charged in the investigation. They include 27-year-old Devante Donaldson of Bowmanville, Ont., 26-year-old Vernacio Gardener of Brampton, 20-year-old Brishawn Zaydeek Mills of Brampton and 22-year-old Taylor Lee of Bowmanville, Ont.

Donaldson faces the most charges, including 11 counts of break-and-enter, 27 counts of failing to comply with a release order, 14 counts of operation while prohibited and four counts of dangerous operation, among other offences.

He was held on bail and appeared in court.

Gardener faces four total charges, including 10 counts of break-and-enter, seven counts of disguise with intent, public mischief and theft of under $5,000. He was released on conditions and will appear in court at a later date.

Mills was charged with eight counts of break-and-enter, four counts of disguise with intent and public mischief. He was released on conditions and will appear in court at a later date.

Lee was charged with three counts of operation while prohibited and two counts of dangerous operation. She was released on conditions and will appear in court at a later date.