Toronto police apprehended a total of eight individuals, including four minors, and confiscated a loaded AR-15-style rifle, master keys, and electronic devices used for theft during a recent operation in the city’s east end.
According to authorities, the incident unfolded over the weekend in the Regent Park neighborhood near Dundas Street East and Sumach Street. Police attempted to arrest a wanted individual around 10:30 p.m. on August 23, but the suspect and a youth attempted to escape upon seeing the officers.
After a short pursuit on foot, both individuals were apprehended. A subsequent search led to the discovery of a loaded AR-15-style rifle with 27 rounds of 5.56-calibre ammunition.
Following the initial arrest, a search warrant was executed at a nearby residence where seven vehicle master keys and two electronic programming devices were recovered, believed to be used for facilitating vehicle theft. Five additional suspects were taken into custody.
Photographs of the seized items have been made public as the investigation continues to unfold.
Among those charged, Kevin Joao, 20, of Toronto, faces multiple firearm-related charges, including unauthorized possession of a firearm, possession of prohibited ammunition, and possession of automobile master keys. Another individual, Jahmier Adams, 19, is charged with various offenses related to possession of master keys and theft devices.
Additionally, Lamario Reddick, 20, has been charged with possession of master keys and theft devices. The remaining suspects include a 16-year-old male youth and three female youths aged 16 and 17, all facing charges related to possession of stolen goods and theft devices.
Authorities urge anyone with relevant information to come forward to assist in the ongoing investigation.
