Media Release - May 31, 2024

 

**FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE**

 

Joint Investigation leads to arrest of Baltimore male for sexual offences

Date: May 30, 2024

In a coordinated effort, the Port Hope Police and Cobourg Police Service have concluded a joint investigation resulting in the arrest of 31-year-old Michael Orleck of Baltimore, Ontario. The arrest was carried out by the Criminal Investigative Branch of both police services.

Michael Orleck has been charged with the following nine offenses under the Criminal Code:

1. Sexual Interference** (Section 151)
2. Sexual Exploitation** (Section 153(1)(a))
3. Abduction of a Person Under 14 - Take or Entice** (Section 281(a))
4. Sexual Assault (Section 271)
5. Make Sexually Explicit Material Available to a Person Under 18 yrs of age (Section 171.1(1)(a)
6. Fail to Comply with Probation Order (Section 733.1(1)) X 2
7. Disobey Court Order (Section 127) X 2

The Port Hope Police are seeking the assistance of the public and local school personnel. If there have been any instances of suspicious activity involving parents or unknown individuals requesting students to be excused from school, we urge you to contact an investigating officer immediately. Additionally, we are seeking information regarding any suspicious activity involving a male in a white or red pick-up truck attempting to communicate with youth, loitering, or exhibiting stalking behavior.

Michael Orleck has a criminal history, including a conviction for Criminal Harassment on May 16, 2023, with the Cobourg Police Service. He is also currently under a release order from November 17, 2023, for the following offenses:

1. Criminal Harassment – Repeat** (Section 264(2)(a))
2. Criminal Harassment – Beset** (Section 264(2)(c))
3. Fail to Comply with Probation** (Section 733.1(1)) – two counts

We appreciate the community's support and cooperation in ensuring the safety and well-being of all individuals. Any information, no matter how small, can be crucial in our investigation. Please contact the Port Hope Police or Cobourg Police Service with any relevant information.

 

Assault

A 44-year-old Port Hope male has been charged with assault after a domestic dispute that took place on May 29, 2024.

The accused and victim have shared custody of their two children. The accused attended the victim’s residence to pick up the children’s sports equipment. During the interaction, the accused pushed the victim and then assaulted her using the door of the vehicle.

As a result, the male was arrested for assault. He was subsequently released on an undertaking with conditions.

 

Impaired Driver

A 28-year-old Ajax female has been charged with Impaired Driving after a routine traffic stop for improper headlights.

On May 24, 2024, an officer on general patrol initiated a traffic stop for a vehicle whose headlight was burnt out. While advising the driver the reason for the stop, the officer noticed signs of impairment from the driver.  As a result, the female was arrested and charge with Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus) and Drive with improper headlights.

The female was given a 90-day license suspension and a 7-day vehicle impoundment.

 

Theft from Motor Vehicles

In recent weeks, Port Hope has witnessed a rise in thefts from vehicles, prompting Police to issue a critical reminder to the public: lock your vehicles.

Law enforcement officials emphasize the importance of proactive measures to deter thefts and safeguard personal belongings:

1. Lock Your Vehicles: Always ensure your vehicle is securely locked, whether parked in your driveway, on the street, or in a parking lot. Even when parked for a brief moment, take the extra second to lock your doors.
2. Secure Valuables: Avoid leaving valuable items, such as wallets, purses, electronic devices, or sensitive documents, in plain sight inside your vehicle. If possible, store them in the trunk or bring them with you.
3. Park in Well-Lit Areas: Whenever possible, park your vehicle in well-lit areas with high visibility. Illuminated parking lots or areas under streetlights can deter potential thieves.
4. Utilize Security Features: If your vehicle is equipped with security features such as alarms or immobilizers, ensure they are activated and functioning correctly.
5. Report Suspicious Activity: Remain vigilant and report any suspicious individuals or activities around parked vehicles to law enforcement immediately. Timely reporting can help prevent future thefts and apprehend perpetrators.

 

Anyone with information on a crime are asked to contact Port Hope Police at 905-885-8123 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS