A Whitby vehicle theft investigation has led to charges against two Toronto men after officers followed stolen vehicles to Ajax and arrested suspects who fled on foot, Durham Regional Police said on October 30.
The investigation began at approximately 2:55 a.m. on Tuesday, October 27. Central West Division officers were carrying out a proactive crime-reduction initiative targeting vehicle theft in Whitby’s Williamsburg area.
Investigators located two stolen vehicles leaving the neighbourhood. Police say the vehicles were subsequently found in Ajax, where officers boxed them in. Two suspects ran away, but both were arrested following a brief foot pursuit.
Police Service Dog Rocky helped apprehend one of the suspects, according to the release.
Charges announced
Jaylen Lake, 24, of Toronto, faces two counts of theft of a motor vehicle, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, dangerous operation, possession of break-in instruments, possession of an electronic device for motor vehicle theft, and driving while suspended.
Genura Yapa, 23, of Toronto, faces two counts of theft of a motor vehicle, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, dangerous operation, possession of break-in instruments, and possession of an electronic device for motor vehicle theft.
Yapa also faces four counts of failing to comply with a release order and one count of failing to comply with a probation order. Police say the compliance charges relate to a previous vehicle-theft investigation.
Both men were held for bail. The allegations have not been proven in court.
Police request video
Anyone with cellphone, dash-camera or surveillance recordings, or information about the Whitby vehicle theft investigation, is asked to call the Auto Robbery Crime Unit at 1-888-579-1520, extension 5355.
