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Media Release - March 31, 2026

Break and Enter Under Investigation

The Port Hope Police Service is investigating a break and enter that occurred at a gas station in the area of Ontario Street and Phillips Road in Port Hope.

On March 31, 2026, at approximately 2:00 a.m., three male suspects entered the business wearing all black clothing, face coverings, and gloves. The suspects removed a safe and a large quantity of cigarettes before fleeing the scene.

The suspects were observed leaving the area in a dark-coloured Ford F-150 crew cab, FX4 model.

Police are asking residents and businesses in the surrounding area to review any CCTV or dash camera footage that may have captured suspicious activity during the time of the incident.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Port Hope Police Service at 905-885-8123 or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers.

 

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Media Release - March 23, 2026

The Port Hope Police Service Responded to Multiple Incidents on Saturday, March 21, 2026.

In the early morning hours, officers were dispatched to a residence in Port Hope regarding an intimate partner violence incident. Investigation revealed that a male victim had been assaulted by his girlfriend. As a result, a 23-year-old female from Port Hope was arrested and charged with assault. She is scheduled to appear in court in May.

Later that day, police responded to a report of a possible impaired driver in the parking lot of Pineview Plaza on Toronto Road. Upon arrival, officers located a vehicle with a male driver and two female occupants who were unresponsive. The driver was determined to be impaired by drugs, which was confirmed through a Drug Recognition Officer evaluation. Police also located a controlled substance during the investigation. A 49-year-old male from Collingwood, Ontario, has been charged with operation while impaired by drugs and possession of a controlled substance. He is also scheduled to appear in court in May.

 

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Media Release - March 21, 2026

Partial Road Closure – Mill Street at Peter Street, Port Hope

The Port Hope Police Service advises residents of a partial road closure on Mill Street at Peter Street following a motor vehicle collision that resulted in damage to a hydro pole.

Mill Street is currently closed to both vehicle and pedestrian traffic from Peter Street to the Benjamin Moore Paints location. Elexicon Energy crews are on site conducting necessary repairs.

As a result of this incident, power has been temporarily cut to certain areas. Traffic control signals in the vicinity may also be affected. Motorists are reminded to treat all impacted intersections as four-way stops.

The public is asked to avoid the area if possible and to follow all posted signage and directions from emergency personnel.

Updates will be provided as they become available.

 

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Media Release - March 19, 2026

Cobourg Male Arrested for Impaired Driving

A 32-year-old Cobourg male is facing impaired driving charges following a single-vehicle collision in Port Hope.

On March 15, 2026,  in the evening, police responded to a collision at the intersection of Jocelyn Street and Cavan Street. Upon arrival, officers located a vehicle that had struck a barrier. The driver had fled the scene prior to police arrival but was located nearby and taken into custody.

Police determined the driver was impaired by alcohol. Subsequent breath tests confirmed a blood alcohol concentration over the legal limit.

As a result, a 32-year-old male has been charged with:

• Operation while impaired (alcohol and drugs)
• Operation while impaired – blood alcohol concentration (80 plus)

The accused was released on an undertaking and is scheduled to appear in court at a later date.

 

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Media Release - March 13, 2026

21 Charges Laid Following Intimate Partner Violence Investigation

On March 11, 2026, the Port Hope Police Service responded to a report of intimate partner violence. During the investigation, officers identified several historical incidents of violence, threats, and mischief that occurred over a number of years.

As a result of the investigation, 21 criminal charges were laid against the accused, including:

• 12 counts of Assault – CC s.266
• 2 counts of Assault Causing Bodily Harm – CC s.267(b)
• 5 counts of Uttering Threats – CC s.264.1(1)
• 1 count of Assault with a Weapon – CC s.267(a)
• 1 count of Mischief – CC s.430(1)(a)

The accused was arrested and held for a show-cause hearing. The court ordered the accused released with strict conditions, including geographic monitoring to protect the victim.

The accused cannot be identified in order to protect the identity of the victim.

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Media Release - March 11, 2026

 

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Media Release - March 9, 2026
Arrest for Impaired Operation and Drug Possession

The Port Hope Police Service has charged an individual following an impaired driving investigation.

On March 7, 2026, at approximately 3:19 p.m., officers arrested a 46-year-old man in connection with an impaired driving investigation. As a result of the investigation, the individual was charged with:

• Operation While Impaired – Criminal Code 320.14(1)(a)

• Possession of a Schedule I Substance – Controlled Drugs and Substances Act 4(1)

The accused was released on an undertaking and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice at a later date.

The Port Hope Police Service reminds the public that impaired driving remains a serious criminal offence that puts the safety of everyone on the road at risk. Anyone who suspects an impaired driver is encouraged to contact police immediately.

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Media Release - March 6, 2026
Criminal Code Search Warrants Executed as a Result of Fraud Investigation

Following the execution of Criminal Code search warrants, a 33-year-old Hamilton Township woman has been charged following a joint investigation into alleged fraudulent activity involving a local support services business.

In the late months of 2025, Port Hope Police Service and Cobourg Police Service began a joint investigation into Rise and Thrive Support Services in response to allegations that the Director of the business was engaging in fraudulent activity impacting vulnerable people in Northumberland County.

On March 5, 2026, as a result of this ongoing investigation, members from both Cobourg Police Service and Port Hope Police Service executed Criminal Code search warrants at a residence on Dale Road, a business on Division Street, and an involved vehicle.

As a result, 33-year-old Cayla Jolene SNETSINGER of Hamilton Township was charged with the following:

• Two counts of Fraud over $5000
• Trafficking in a Schedule I Substance contrary to section 5(1) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act
• Obstruct justice
• Forgery
• Possession of a Schedule I substance - cocaine
• Possession of a Schedule IV substance for the purpose of trafficking
• Possession of property obtained by crime for the purpose of trafficking
• Two counts of Fail to comply with probation

SNETSINGER was held in custody for a bail hearing.

The investigation remains ongoing, and investigators believe there may be additional victims. Anyone with information related to this investigation, or who believes they may have been victimized, is asked to contact:

• Detective Sergeant Eric Rowlands of Port Hope Police Service at Erowlands@phps.on.ca;
• Detective Constable Danielle McKeen of Cobourg Police Service at Danielle.McKeen@CobourgPolice.com; or
• Leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers by phone at 1-800-222-8477 or online at stopcrimehere.ca.
 

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Media Release - March 2, 2025

Statement from OACP on Recent International Military Action and Public Safety in Ontario

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Media Release - February 23, 2026

Police Investigating Apartment Entries on Toronto Road

The Port Hope Police Service is investigating reported entries into an apartment building located at 155 Toronto Road.

Between 11:30 p.m. on February 14, 2026 and 2:30 a.m. on February 15, 2026, three unknown individuals were observed entering the apartment building. At this time, police have confirmed that two separate apartments were entered.

One tenant reported that jewellery was stolen. The second tenant did not report any property loss.

The individuals were last observed walking toward Jocelyn Street. Their direction of travel after that point is unknown.

Police are releasing still images of the individuals captured on video and are asking for the public’s assistance in identifying them.

Investigators are asking residents in the area of Toronto Road and Jocelyn Street to review any security camera or dashcam footage recorded between 11:30 a.m. on February 14 and 2:30 a.m. on February 15, 2026.

Anyone with footage, who experienced a similar entry into their apartment (even if nothing was taken), or who observed suspicious activity in the area during the time in question, is asked to contact the Port Hope Police Service.

Members of the public can also upload video or photo evidence directly to investigators using the following secure Axon QR code:

or by using the following Link: https://porthopeps.ca.evidence.com/axon/community-request/public/ph26000856

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Media Release - February 20, 2026

Traffic Stop Results in Multiple Charges for Port Hope Man

On February 8, 2026, at approximately 1:59 a.m., police identified a vehicle displaying licence plates not registered to the vehicle. A traffic stop was conducted on Peter Street.

Through further investigation, police determined the driver was operating the vehicle while under suspension. Police also confirmed the vehicle was uninsured and that the driver had failed to apply for a vehicle permit upon becoming the owner.

As a result, a 31-year-old Port Hope male was issued four Part III Summonses to appear in court for the following offences:

• Use plate not authorized for vehicle – s. 12(1)(d) Highway Traffic Act
• Drive while under suspension – s. 53(1) Highway Traffic Act
• Owner operate motor vehicle on a highway without insurance – s. 2(1)(a) Compulsory Automobile Insurance Act
• Fail to apply for permit on becoming owner – s. 11(2) Highway Traffic Act

The vehicle was impounded for seven days.

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Media Release - February 19, 2026

Port Hope Man Charged Following Early Morning Assault Investigation

The Port Hope Police Service has charged a 32‑year‑old Port Hope man following an incident in the early morning hours of February 19, 2026. At approximately 2:45 a.m., officers responded to a residence on Phillips Road for a report of an assault in progress. Upon arrival, police located an individual being assaulted and intervened immediately.

During the arrest, the accused became combative with officers, resulting in one officer sustaining an injury requiring medical attention.

As a result of the investigation, the accused has been charged with:

• Assault – Spousal
• Assault Peace Officer Causing Bodily Harm
• Assault Peace Officer
• Uttering Threats to Cause Death or Bodily Harm (two counts)
• Possession of a Schedule I Substance (Cocaine)
• Fail to Comply with Probation Order (two counts)

The accused was held in custody pending a Show Cause Hearing.

 

Quebec Man Arrested Following Early Morning Vehicle Theft in Port Hope

The Port Hope Police Service has charged a 42‑year‑old man from St. Julienne, Quebec, following a motor vehicle theft investigation in the early morning hours of February 18, 2026.

At approximately 4:47 a.m., police responded to Lakeridge Chrysler on Peter Street after receiving a report that two pickup trucks had been stolen from the dealership compound. The caller reported hearing grinding noises before observing two dark pickup trucks leaving the property at a high rate of speed.

While responding, an officer observed a group of vehicles travelling southbound on Toronto Road, including two newer Ram pickup trucks without licence plates. Police initiated a traffic stop near the MTO lot south of Highway 401. One vehicle stopped, while the second fled onto the eastbound onramp of Highway 401.

Officers conducted a high‑risk arrest of the driver of the stopped vehicle who was arrested without incident. The accused was transported to the Port Hope Police Service for processing.

The 42‑year‑old Quebec man was later released and charged with:

• Theft of Motor Vehicle (Criminal Code s. 333.1)
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime (Criminal Code s. 354)
• Mischief (Criminal Code s. 430)
• Possession of an Automobile Master Key (Criminal Code s. 353(1)(b))

The investigation remains ongoing.

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Media Release - February 18, 2026

Break and Enter – Arrest Made

The Port Hope Police Service has charged a 36-year-old Port Hope male following a break and enter investigation on February 17, 2026.

At approximately 1:03 p.m., officers were dispatched to a residential apartment building in the Town of Port Hope for a report of a break and enter. The complainant advised that after returning home from work late that morning, he discovered a significant amount of cash missing from inside his residence. Nothing else appeared to be disturbed.

Police attended and began an investigation. Video surveillance obtained from the property management office identified a suspect who was known to the building. Officers learned the individual was a former employee who previously had authorized access to unit keys.

Officers located the suspect at a residence within the same building and placed him under arrest without incident.

A 36-year-old Port Hope male has been charged with:

• Break and Enter
• Theft Under $5,000

The accused was transported to the Port Hope Police Service, processed, and later released on an undertaking with a future court date.

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Media Release - February 10, 2026

Port Hope Police Service Announces Partnership with Harper Can Help to Support Mental Wellness of Members and Families

Port Hope, ON — The Port Hope Police Service is proud to announce a new partnership with Harper Can Help, a Canadian mental-wellness platform designed specifically for individuals working in high-pressure, high-risk professions such as policing.

This partnership reflects the Service’s ongoing commitment to supporting the health and wellbeing of those who serve the community. Through this initiative, Harper Can Help will be available to sworn members, dispatch, civilian staff, spouses and partners, and adolescent children; reinforcing a whole-family approach to wellness.

“We know our members are integral to community safety. If their wellbeing is not properly supported, we cannot expect them to operate at their full potential. Wellbeing affects every part of life—family, employment, time away from work, and personal interests. No single support approach will work for everyone, which is why a multi-faceted range of support options is essential. I have always believed that the true measure of a caring and compassionate organization is reflected in how well it supports its members,” said Chief Tim Farquharson, Port Hope Police Service.

“This is a meaningful step forward for Police Services,” said CEO Keith Crawford. “Policing has long led the way in physical safety, operational readiness, and professional training. We believe it is equally important to lead in mental strength, recovery, and long-term wellbeing.”

The demands of police work are complex and cumulative. Exposure to critical incidents, long hours, operational stress, and the responsibilities that come with the profession can have lasting impacts — not only on members, but also on their families. Proactive mental wellness plays a vital role in sustaining personal health, professional effectiveness, and community safety.

Harper Can Help is not therapy, counselling, or an employer-connected program. It is a fast, confidential mental wellness check-in designed to help individuals better understand stress, fatigue, burnout, and overall mental load — similar to the routine equipment checks performed before each shift. All results are private and belong solely to the individual.

Why this matters:

• Mental fatigue can affect focus, decision-making, and safety
• Occupational stress does not end when a shift ends — it follows members home
• Healthy members contribute to healthy families
• Caring for oneself helps protect colleagues and the community

Built for the realities of police work, Harper Can Help is accessible on demand and on the individual’s own terms. It recognizes the challenges of cumulative stress, injuries, family pressures, and the responsibility that comes with wearing the badge.

By taking this step, the Port Hope Police Service continues to reinforce a culture that values strength in every form. Members and their families are encouraged to take advantage of this resource as part of a proactive approach to mental wellness.

The Port Hope Police Service extends its gratitude to all members and families for their continued dedication in serving and protecting the community.

 

For media inquiries, please contact:

Jessica Wessels
Port Hope Police Service – Media Relations
Phone: 905-885-8123 ext. 345
Email: media@phps.on.ca

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Media Release - February 4, 2026

Break & Enter Results in Arrest

On February 2, 2026, members of the Port Hope Police Service responded to a report of a break and enter in progress at a residence in Port Hope. Upon arrival, officers located and arrested an adult male at the rear door of the residence. No one was inside the home at the time of the incident.

Police determined the accused was bound by three active Probation Orders stemming from previous offences in the Peterborough area. The accused was held for a bail hearing and was subsequently remanded into custody.

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Media Release - January 22, 2026

Youth Arrested Following Vehicle Theft

On January 21, 2026, a vehicle was stolen while the owner was inside a local recreation centre. The vehicle had been left unlocked with a spare key and two cellphones inside.

Using a tracked phone, and with the assistance of Cobourg Police, officers were able to locate the vehicle at Cobourg business. During the attempted police stop, the suspect tried to flee, damaging property before becoming stuck.

A youth was arrested and charged with theft of a motor vehicle and mischief to property, and released on an Undertaking with conditions.

Police are reminding residents to always lock their vehicles and never leave keys or valuables inside their vehicles.

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Media Release - January 19, 2025

Police Investigating Overnight Thefts

The Port Hope Police Service is investigating several overnight thefts in the area of Deblaquire Street North and Ward Street.

Residents are asked to check their properties for any missing items and review any video surveillance or doorbell footage captured between 2:30 a.m. and 3:00 a.m. on January 19, 2026.

Anyone with information or video is asked to contact the Port Hope Police Service at 905-885-8123 ext. 1 or Crime Stoppers. Police thank the public for their assistance.

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Media Release - January 6, 2025

Port Hope Police Service Mourns the Passing of Jeff Lees

The Port Hope Police Service is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Jeff Lees, a long-time Port Hope Councillor, former Police Services Board member, and the 2023 Outstanding Citizen of the Year.

Jeff Lees was a dedicated public servant who devoted many years to improving the quality of life in Port Hope. His commitment to community service, civic engagement, and the wellbeing of residents left a lasting and meaningful impact. Jeff was widely known and well loved for his kindness, approachability, and genuine care for the community he proudly served.

Throughout his years in public life, Jeff worked closely with community partners, including the Port Hope Police Service, always with the shared goal of making Port Hope a safer, stronger, and more inclusive place. His leadership, integrity, and compassion will not be forgotten.

Chief Farquharson shared the following statement:

“I had the fortunate opportunity to speak with Jeff on a few occasions since my arrival in Port Hope and was truly impressed by how deeply he loved this community and its Police Service. Jeff was very much appreciated and loved by the members of the Port Hope Police Service.”

On behalf of the members and staff of the Port Hope Police Service, we extend our sincere condolences to Jeff’s family, friends, colleagues, and all those who were touched by his life and service. Our thoughts are with the community during this difficult time as we remember and honour Jeff’s many contributions.

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Media Release - January 5, 2025

Impaired Driver Arrest

In the early morning hours of January 4, 2026, the Port Hope Police Service responded to a report of a possible impaired driver.

Officers located a vehicle stopped on the roadway with the engine running. The driver had left the scene on foot but was located nearby a short time later. Officers observed signs of impairment, and further investigation confirmed the individual was prohibited from driving.

The driver was arrested and transported for a Drug Recognition Evaluation, where it was determined the individual was impaired by drugs. Police also located a quantity of methamphetamine during the investigation.

As a result, the individual was charged with:

• Operation While Impaired – Alcohol and Drugs
• Possession of a Schedule I Substance (Methamphetamine)
• Driving While Under Suspension

The accused was released on an undertaking and will appear in court at a later date.

 

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Media Release - December 21, 2025

Toronto Man Faces Multiple Charges After Incident in Port Hope

The Port Hope Police Service responded to a report of an assault in the downtown area during the evening hours of December 20, 2025.

Police were advised that a male, believed to be intoxicated, had assaulted multiple individuals and made threats of death and bodily harm. One individual required medical attention as a result of their injuries. The suspect fled the area prior to police arrival.

Officers conducted an area search and obtained statements from multiple victims and witnesses. Through the investigation, police identified the suspect and grounds were formed for arrest.

A short time later, officers located the suspect near the river area. The individual was highly intoxicated, uncooperative, and displayed violent and threatening behaviour toward officers. During the interaction, the suspect threw objects at police, including rocks and ice, and armed himself with a broken glass bottle, threatening to use it against officers.

Despite repeated attempts at verbal de-escalation, the suspect continued to behave aggressively and assaulted an officer. A Conducted Energy Weapon (CEW) was deployed; however, it was initially ineffective. Officers ultimately gained physical control of the suspect and effected the arrest.

Following the arrest, the individual remained combative and made further threats toward police. Emergency medical services attended to assist, and the suspect was transported to hospital. While in custody, the suspect spat on police officers and paramedics.

As a result of the investigation, 22-year-old Tyler Yanaky of Toronto has been charged with the following offences:

• Being Intoxicated in a Public Place
• Assault (four counts)
• Uttering Threats to Cause Death or Bodily Harm (six counts)
• Assault a Peace Officer (four counts)

The accused was held in custody pending a bail hearing scheduled for December 21, 2025.

The Port Hope Police Service would like to thank emergency medical services and Cobourg Police Service for their support during this incident. Anyone with information related to this investigation is encouraged to contact the Port Hope Police Service.

 

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Media Release - December 20, 20925

Follow-Up Media Release – Request for Dashcam Footage

The Port Hope Police Service is providing a further update to the impaired driving investigation that occurred on December 18, 2025, involving a heavily damaged vehicle located in the Toronto Road carpool lot.

Investigators are asking anyone who may have been travelling on Highway 401 during the time of the incident and who has dashcam footage that may be relevant to this occurrence to please submit it for review.

Dashcam footage can be securely uploaded using the provided online submission link or QR code included with this release.

The Port Hope Police Service and the Ontario Provincial Police continue to work collaboratively on this investigation. Any video footage, no matter how brief, may assist investigators in confirming timelines and vehicle movements.

Anyone with additional information is also encouraged to contact the Port Hope Police Service.

Https://porthopeps.ca.evidence.com/axon/community-request/public/ph25007061

 

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Media Release - December 19, 2025

Impaired Driving Arrest Following Highway 401 Collision

On December 18, 2025, the Port Hope Police Service responded to a report of a heavily damaged motor vehicle parked in the Toronto Road carpool lot.

Officers attended and initiated an investigation, which resulted in the arrest of the driver for Impaired Operation. Through further investigation and coordination with the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), it was determined that the vehicle had recently been involved in a collision on Highway 401.

The investigation revealed that the vehicle struck both a pickup truck and a transport truck on Highway 401, fled the scene of the collision, travelled at excessive speeds, and subsequently collided with a concrete underpass on Highway 401.

As a result of the investigation, Madison Parnell-Robertson, a 26-year-old female from Whitby, was charged with the following offences:

• Impaired Operation
• Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle
• Refusal to Comply with a Breath Demand
• Failure to Stop After an Accident
• Driving While Suspended

The Port Hope Police Service and the Ontario Provincial Police will continue a joint investigation into this incident.

Anyone with information related to this occurrence is asked to contact the Port Hope Police Service.

 

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Media Release - December 18, 2025

Port Hope Police Service Joins Ontario’s Provincial Bail Compliance Dashboard

The Port Hope Police Service has officially joined the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Provincial Bail Compliance Dashboard (PBCD), a province-wide tool designed to monitor and share information on individuals released on bail for firearms-related offences and crimes against the person. This initiative supports the proactive management of high-risk individuals within the community and enhances public safety.

The PBCD, managed by the OPP, provides cross-jurisdictional and inter-agency data, giving officers access to near real-time information about offenders on bail. This situational awareness tool allows police services to identify potential risks, track compliance with bail conditions, and respond quickly to any violations, ultimately strengthening officer and community safety.

By providing critical details on offenders released on bail for a broader range of high-risk offences, the dashboard improves the ability of police services to manage these individuals effectively. Its adoption by Port Hope Police Service aligns with a province-wide effort to standardize bail monitoring, encourage collaboration between police services, and reduce the likelihood of repeat offences.

The PBCD is available to all police services in Ontario and reinforces a shared commitment to public safety through timely information sharing and coordinated law enforcement efforts.

For more information about the Provincial Bail Compliance Dashboard, visit opp.ca/pbcd.

 

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Media Release - December 15, 2025

Theft Arrests

On December 13, 2025, two individuals entered a retail pharmacy in Port Hope and stole merchandise. A notification was promptly circulated to surrounding retail locations. As a result, the suspects were located shortly thereafter at a retail pharmacy in Cobourg, where they were arrested by the Cobourg Police Service and subsequently turned over to officers of the Port Hope Police Service.

Further investigation determined that the same two individuals were also involved in a similar theft at the same Port Hope retail pharmacy on November 13, 2025.

As a result, both individuals have been charged with two counts each of Theft Under $5,000.

The accused are Romanian citizens who are in Canada on tourist visas. The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has been notified and will be actively monitoring the progression of this matter through the court process.

The Port Hope Police Service would like to thank the Cobourg Police Service and local retail partners for their cooperation and assistance in this investigation.

 

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Media Release - November 27, 2025

On November 26, 2025, Port Hope Police responded to a shoplifting incident at a local pharmacy. Officers located the suspect vehicle on Highway 401 and conducted a traffic stop.

Two adult males were arrested. One was charged with Theft Under $5,000 and Possession of Property Obtained by Crime and was held for a bail hearing due to existing court conditions. The second male was charged with Theft Under $5,000 and released on conditions.

The investigation remains ongoing.

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