Two individuals are facing a long list of charges following a dangerous early-morning police pursuit in Oshawa, which ended with arrests and the seizure of illegal drugs. The incident, which unfolded in a residential area, has raised further concerns about reckless driving and drug-related activity in Durham Region.
According to Durham Regional Oshawa Police, the situation began on March 16, 2026, at approximately 2:10 a.m., when officers from Central East Division responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle near Rosedale Avenue and Division Street. Upon arrival, officers observed a red sedan travelling at a high rate of speed and failing to stop at multiple stop signs.
Recognizing the risk to public safety, officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop. However, the driver refused to comply and fled the area, leading to a brief pursuit. Police quickly lost sight of the vehicle, but a short time later, it was located abandoned nearby.
Officers immediately began searching the surrounding area and were able to locate both suspects within a short distance of the abandoned vehicle. The male and female were arrested without incident, bringing a swift end to the dangerous situation.
During a search of the vehicle, police discovered a quantity of illegal drugs, including substances believed to be cocaine, crystal methamphetamine, and ecstasy. The presence of multiple types of drugs has added to the seriousness of the charges laid against the suspects.
A 29-year-old woman, identified as Natasha Robitaille, who has no fixed address, is facing several charges. These include failure to stop for police, dangerous operation of a conveyance, obstructing police, stunt driving, and multiple counts of possession of Schedule I substances. She is also charged with breach of probation, indicating prior legal conditions were in place at the time of the incident.
A second suspect, Joseph James Harley Crozier, 40, of Clarington, has been charged with multiple counts of possession of Schedule I substances, including cocaine, methamphetamine, and ecstasy.
Police confirmed that Robitaille was held for a bail hearing, while Crozier was later released on an undertaking, meaning he must comply with certain conditions while awaiting further court proceedings.
Durham Regional Police are continuing their investigation and are asking for the public’s assistance. Anyone who may have cellphone footage, dash cam recordings, or surveillance video from the area is encouraged to come forward, as it could help provide additional context to the incident.
Residents can contact the Central East Criminal Investigations Branch at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 1705. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Durham Regional Crime Stoppers.
Police remind the public that all charges have yet to be proven in court.
This incident highlights the ongoing efforts by Durham police to respond quickly to dangerous situations and enforce laws aimed at keeping roads and communities safe.
