COVID-19: Reporting Violations and Inquiries
General Inquires
Any general inquiries regarding COVID-19 can be answered by contacting the City’s Customer Contact Center at 519-759-4150
To report a violation of the provincial or municipal orders, please complete this Online Form or call the City’s Customer Contact Center at 519-759-4150
Brantford Police Service – Public FAQ’s
As the situation related to COVID-19 continues to quickly evolve, the Brantford Police Service has been working closely with our City of Brantford Emergency Management partners in response to the COVID-19 pandemic including the County of Brant, Six Nations, Brant County Health Unit and the Brant Community Healthcare System.
We have been taking advice from public health officials and making decisions that balance our need to provide community safety with maintaining the health and safety of our members.
Policing personnel are conducting active screening, in the course of our duties, for potential risks of COVID-19 with everyone entering our police facility to ensure the safety and well-being of all other individuals.
Currently, there are no changes to our frontline operations.
Police Services
Q. How can I file a police report?
If you have an emergency – an immediate threat to life or property and/or risk to public safety – please call 911.
Non-emergencies can be reported by calling 519-756-0113.
Many incidents can be reported using our online reporting system http://www.brantfordpolice.ca such as Damage to Vehicle or Property under $5,000, Driving Complaints, Traffic Issues or Concerns, Graffiti, or Theft or Fraud Under $5,000.
Q. Can I go to the police station to make a report?
In an effort to protect the health and well-being of our members, we are asking members of the public to refrain from attending the station unless in an emergency situation. Please note that should you need to provide payment for services such as a vulnerable sector check, cash transactions are not being accepted at this time. Payment can be made via debit, mastercard or visa.
Q. How can I get a Criminal Record Check, a Criminal Record and Judicial Matters Check or a Vulnerable Sector Screening?
At this time due to the COVID-19 pandemic, our office is not accepting in-person applications for police checks or facilitating civilian fingerprints. During this time, we encourage all applicants to apply for police checks using the Online Police Background Records Check portal. This is located in the "Useful Links" box. All record checks that pass authentication will be automatically mailed out when completed.
Please note: If you are under the age of 21 or have limited credit history, you can still pay for and submit your application online to get the process started. If you fail to authenticate or require fingerprints, we will not be able to complete your application until the office is fully operational again. You may show your employer/volunteer organization your receipt, as proof of your application, and have them refer to our website for confirmation of our limited access.
Until further notice, previously submitted requests, will NOT be available for pick up. Exceptions will be made for those requiring a Vulnerable Sector Check under emergency circumstances.
NEW: Effective November 1, 2018, the new Police Records Check Reform Act is in effect. Due to changes imposed by the legislation, the Brantford Police Service will no longer accept and process police record checks for persons under the age of 18, UNLESS the applicant is applying for a position with a government agency (federal, provincial, or municipal). Eligible young persons must apply in person, not our on-line process.
Please note: you MUST be a current resident of the City of Brantford (taxes paid to the City of Brantford) and your address must be policed by the Brantford Police Service in order to apply through this Police Service. If you are unsure if you are eligible to apply through the Brantford Police Service, please call us at 519-756-0113 ext 3336 for verification as NO REFUNDS will be issued.
Information about Vulnerable Sector Checks can be found online at www.brantfordpolice.ca or by calling 519-756-0113.
Q. Can I pick up my property?
Please contact the Property Unit Clerks by calling 519-756-0113 ext. 2217 between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m Monday to Friday regarding any questions you may have and to arrange a suitable time to pick up your property.
Q. I need to attend a Collision Reporting Centre, are they open?
Yes. However, the Collision Reporting Centre has amended hours of operation to 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday to Friday and are now closed on Saturdays until further notice.
Screening methods have been put in place to ensure the health and safety of the public and their employees. These may include instructing citizens to remain outside in their vehicles to await a CRC staff member, putting restrictions on who can attend, increased sanitization, not handling customer documents, and encouraging social distancing.
Q. How are the Emergency Orders that are now in place to help slow the spread of COVID-19 enforced?
Contraventions of the Emergency Management and Civil Protections Act (EMPCA) and/or City of Brantford By-law violations will result in the attendance of a City By-law Officer or Brant County Health Unit Inspection Officer, supported by a member of Brantford Police Service or Ontario Provincial Police (if warranted).
Should the City of Brantford institute any additional by-laws, they will be enforced by the City of Brantford’s By-law Enforcement Officers and supported by Police, if warranted.
The severity of each infraction in relation to the potential risk to public health and the spread of COVID-19 will be considered when taking enforcement action. Consistent with existing enforcement approaches, a graduated approach to compliance will be implemented. This could include providing educational messaging or warnings to members of the public around the emergency orders and, if compliance is not obtained, the issuance of a ticket under the Part I of the Provincial Offences Act or a summons under Part III of the Act.
Complaints related to self-isolation or quarantine
On March 25, 2020 the Government of Canada invoked the Quarantine Act. This requires all travelers returning to Canada – with the exception of what the federal government is calling "essential workers” – enter a mandatory 14-day period of isolation, regardless of whether any symptoms of COVID-19 are present.
For concerns relating to returning travelers who are not self-isolating and who arrived on or after March 25, please contact Brant County Health Unit at 519-753-4937 and press '1'
To report a violation of the provincial or municipal orders, please complete this Online Form or call the City’s Customer Contact Center at 519-759-4150
For more information about what the City can enforce in priority order, please visit: http://www.Brantford.ca/covid19Violations
Complaints related to non-compliance with physical distancing guidelines on private property (e.g. grocery stores)
Physical distancing of being two metres (six feet) apart from another person is required to control the spread of COVID-19. People should avoid crowds and practice physical distance everywhere, including in open establishments, such as grocery stores.
For complaints relating to people not following the physical distance guideline on private property, please contact Brant County Health Unit at 519-753-4937 and press '1'.
For more information on how to practice physical distancing, visit the BCHU website at: https://www.bchu.org/coronavirus
Q. What is Social Distancing?
In order to decrease transmission of COVID-19, all residents are reminded to practice social distancing. This involves taking steps to minimize close contact with others, including:
- Avoiding crowded places and non-essential gatherings
- Avoiding common greetings, such as handshakes
- Limiting contact with people at higher risk (e.g. older adults and those in poor health)
- Keeping a distance of at least two arms lengths (approximately two metres or six feet) from others
- Washing hands and often touched spaces frequently
Please be mindful of the members of our community who are more vulnerable to COVID-19. Social distancing is proven to be one of the most effective ways to reduce the spread of illness.
Q. What are Police doing to ensure businesses and their property are being protected?
BPS remains committed to providing essential services throughout the community. We recognize that many businesses have temporarily closed due to COVID-19. As always, we will continue proactive patrols and respond to calls for service to ensure the safety and security of our community. If members of the public observe suspicious activity or individuals, near or close to a business, they are encouraged to call police immediately. Reporting crime and providing relevant information allows our investigators to identify suspects and solve crime.
Complaints regarding price gouging
The Province has both an online and telephone option for the public to report incidents of price gouging. Online reports can be made at: https://www.ontario.ca/form/report-price-gouging-related-covid-19 or, consumers can call Consumer Protection Ontario at 1-800-889-9768 between 8:30 am and 5:00 pm Monday to Friday.
Businesses who have additional questions
Companies and workplaces that have questions about the temporary closure of all non-essential workplaces related order can call Ontario’s Stop the Spread Business Information Line at 1-888-444-3659
For any other type of business, report your concerns to the City Online for call the City’s Customer Contact Center at 519-759-4150.
For more information about what the City can enforce in priority order, please visit: http://www.Brantford.ca/covid19Violations
Employee Concerns
If you have COVID-19 concerns or questions about your workplace or construction site, please call the Ministry of Labour’s Health and Safety Contact Centre at 1-877-202-0008
Q. What should I do if someone comes to my house, calls me or sends a text asking for COVID-19 relief donations or is selling COVID-19 related products and services?
Brantford Police Services reminds the public to be extra vigilant when it comes to those trying to sell or provide products or services associated with COVID-19. Reliable, accurate and up-to-date information is provided through local public health officials. Anyone who believes they have been approached or contacted by someone who is misrepresenting themselves in an effort to sell goods or services should report this to Brantford Police online at http://www.brantfordpolice.ca
Staffing & Screening
Q. Are there enough police officers to keep the city safe?
Brantford Police Service members have been provided with the same direction as the public when it comes to travel, self-isolation, and self-monitoring.
It is not in the interest of community safety for us to disclose our exact deployment numbers but we can say, at this time, this direction has impacted an extremely small number of members and we have not had to make any changes to our frontline policing services.
Prior to COVID-19, the Brantford Police Service had plans in place to address staffing needs during a public crisis or emergency. These plans include repurposing of resources, modifying members’ shifts, and adjusting our service delivery model. All of these steps would allow us to maintain public safety and respond to emergency calls for service. We have not had to make these adjustments to date.
Q. Is the Brantford Police Service screening those in custody?
We will not speak to any specific cases but we can say that every person in police custody is screened at least three times: upon arrest, at the station, and again when they are transported to court by a supervisor. These screenings include such questions as: do you have symptoms, have you travelled, have you been quarantined, etc. We continue to work with our emergency management partners to ensure our screening is the most effective it can be in determining the well-being of people in our custody to prevent possible exposure to our members and those who work along side us in the justice system.
Regarding releasing people rather than remanding, if we can release someone from custody we will, but our priority is on the safety of the public. If necessary, we have and will continue to seek opportunities to limit exposure to those who are in custody and will remain so throughout the court process.
Enforcement Practices
Q. Has there been a reduction in crime or have police officers stopped making arrests?
There has been no change in the operational direction provided to our members.
We are not experiencing a significant change to our calls for service, however; we are asking the public to please not call 9-1-1 unless there is an immediate threat to life or property. Any questions related to COVID-19 should be directed to local public health officials and/or the City’s COVID-19 line at 519-759-4150.
Q. Why do I have to identify myself?
On March 31, 2020, the Government of Ontario made changes that require an individual to identify themselves at the request of a police officer, if there are reasonable grounds to believe the individual is violating an emergency order.
City of Brantford Bylaw Officers and Brant County Health Unit staff continue to lead with monitoring and providing information and education to non-compliant individuals and businesses. The Brantford Police Service will assist with these enforcement efforts, when necessary. This includes visiting establishments that have not complied with the provincial directive and, under each circumstance, using officer discretion to determine the proper action.
There are various options of enforcement, ranging in severity from a $750 ticket to a summons, which upon conviction can result in fines from $100,000 for individuals to $10 million for businesses, to arrests and criminal charges of Obstruct Police.
You are required to identify yourself once the officer has reasonable grounds to lay a charge so the officer can properly issue you a ticket or summons, whichever they deem necessary.
Q. What is the role of the Police?
The role of the police during a pandemic or emergency situation continues to be focused on ensuring public safety, providing public information and education, and enforcing the law in a thoughtful manner. Municipal, provincial, or federal governments may invoke legislation that, in some cases, provides the police with new powers of authority for a defined period of time, usually until the problem being addressed is resolved.
Complaints received by the police about groups or establishments breaching various orders could involve, but are not necessarily limited to, the following actions:
- Receive and assess the complaint to determine if there is a violation of any legislation and/or regulations and if police, public health officials or other entities (such as bylaw officers) are required.
- If a violation of the legislation and/or regulations has been assessed, charges may be laid. However, emphasis is being placed on education to ensure compliance. Enforcement is generally considered as a last resort and is likely to be focused on repeat offenders.
- If a party is found to be guilty of an offence, they could be subject to fines and/or jail time depending on the legislation.
When it comes to the COVID-19 pandemic, it is possible that the police may be called upon to enforce new authorities that have been invoked by various levels of government. There are numerous discussions taking place across the country to determine the best approach to this evolving situation.
Q. How do I find more information about COVID-19?
Ontario has launched a dedicated web page to provide up to date public information with a summary of data from Public Health Ontario that offers expanded information every day at 10:30 a.m. https://covid-19.ontario.ca/
For local information, please visit the Brant County Health Unit website, undated daily at 11am: http://www.bchu.org
Ontario’s COVID-19 Self-Assessment Tool: https://www.ontario.ca/page/2019-novel-coronavirus
Last Update: December 29, 2020
Street Crime Unit Drug and Weapon Seizure
Incident 21-7612
In late 2020, members of the Brantford Police Service Street Crime Unit initiated a drug trafficking investigation within the City of Brantford.
As the investigation progressed, on Thursday, March 4 2021, officers received judicial authorization to enter and search a dwelling located on Fredrick Street, Brantford. In the evening hours of March 4, 2021, members of the Brantford Police Service Emergency Response Team and Street Crime Unit executed the search warrant and arrested three individuals inside the home.
As a result of the search, the following items were seized:
- 195 grams (approx.) of suspected cocaine with an estimated street value of $19,500
- Prescription medication of an estimated street value of $200
- Canadian Currency
- Money counting machine
- Prohibited weapons
- Weighing scales and drug packaging
As a result of the investigation, the following persons are facing criminal charges:
A 28-year-old male from Brantford is charged with:
- Possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking contrary to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act x2
- Flight from police contrary to the Criminal Code
- Possession of a prohibited weapon contrary to the Criminal Code
A 65-year-old male from Brantford is charged with:
- Possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking contrary to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act
A 62-year-old female from Brantford is charged with:
- Possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking contrary to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act
Anyone with information on any other drug-related activities is asked to contact the Street Crime Unit of the Brantford Police Service at 519-756-0113 ext. 2286.
Tipsters who wish to remain anonymous are asked to contact Brant- Brantford Crime Stoppers at 519-750-8477 or 1-800-222-8477. Alternatively, a web tip may be submitted at: https://www.tipsubmit.com/WebTips.aspx?AgencyID=251
Public Safety in Partnership with our Community
40-year-old Brantford Male Arrested in Drug Trafficking Investigation
Incident 21-7206
On Monday, March 1, 2021, members of the Brantford Police Service concluded an ongoing drug trafficking investigation and have arrested a 40-year-old male from Brantford on drug related charges.
Officers received judicial authorization to enter and search a dwelling located on Buffalo Street, Brantford. In the evening hours of March 1, 2021, members of the Brantford Police Service executed the search warrant, arresting one individual and seized a quantity of illegal drugs.
As a result of the search, the following items were seized:
- 4.15 grams (approx.) of suspected Heroin with an estimated street value of $1,425
- 6.16 grams (approx.) of suspected Fentanyl with an estimated street value of $1,540
- 1.55 grams (approx.) of suspected Methamphetamine with an estimated street value of $232
- 0.31 grams (approx.) of Cocaine with an estimated street value of $31
- Prescription drugs with an estimated street value of $315.00
- 15.7 grams (approx.) of Cannabis with an estimated street value of $157.00
- Canadian currency
- Drug paraphernalia
- Weapons - replica firearm and knives
As a result of the investigation, a 40-year-old male from Brantford is charged with the following:
- Possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking x 6 under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act
- Possession of cannabis for the purpose of selling, under the Cannabis Substances Act
The accused has been held for bail.
Anyone with information related to illegal drug activities is asked to contact the Street Crime Unit of the Brantford Police Service at 519-756-0113 ext. 2286.
Tipsters who wish to remain anonymous are asked to contact Brant- Brantford Crime Stoppers at 519-750-8477 or 1-800-222-8477.
Alternatively, a web tip may be submitted at: https://www.tipsubmit.com/WebTips.aspx?AgencyID=251
Public Safety in Partnership with our Community
CRIME BRIEF: February 25, 2021
Type: Impaired Driving - Alcohol
Incident: 21-5841
Location: Dalhousie Street / King Street
On Friday, February 19, 2021 at approximately 12:00 a.m., Brantford Police Service received a 9-1-1 call from a concerned citizen to report a possible impaired driver on Dalhousie Street.
A vehicle was observed being operated in a dangerous manner, with inconsistent speeds, swerving between multiple lanes, and nearly striking a pedestrian and median.
Officers with the Brantford Police Service were dispatched and conducted a traffic stop on Dalhousie Street at King Street. Upon speaking with the driver, officers observed signs of impairment.
The accused provided a suitable sample of breath, which resulted in a "Fail”. The accused was then transported to the Brantford Police Station where he provided two samples of breath, as required by law. Both samples provided were over two times the legal limit.
As a result of this investigation, a 22-year-old male from Brantford stands charged with the following Criminal Code violations:
- Impaired Operation
- 80 Plus
The driver’s licence of the accused was suspended and the vehicle impounded.
Type: Impaired Driving - Drugs
Incident: 21-5950
Location: Clarence Street / Elgin Street
On Friday, February 19, 2021, at approximately 5:27 p.m., Brantford Police Service received multiple 9-1-1 calls in regards to a motor vehicle located in the middle of the Clarence Street near Elgin Street where a lone male was observed to be passed out in the driver’s seat of the running vehicle.
Brantford Police Service arrived on scene at approximately 5:31 p.m., located the vehicle and observed a lone male occupant in the driver’s seat who appeared to be unconscious.
In an attempt to ensure the male was not in medical distress, officers engaged the male and observed signs of impairment and alleged drug use. The male was placed under arrest for impaired operation and transported to the Brantford Police Station for evaluation by a drug recognition expert as required by law.
The accused performed poorly on the drug recognition expert evaluation and was found to be impaired.
As a result of the investigation, a 38-year-old male from Brantford stands charged with one count of Impaired Operation contrary to the Criminal Code.
Type: Impaired Driving - Drugs
Incident: 21-6025
Location: Dalhousie Street
On Saturday, February 20, 2021, officers with the Brantford Police Service were dispatched to attend a location on Dalhousie Street, in regards to reports of an accident where a motor vehicle struck a tree.
Upon attending the scene, the driver of the motor vehicle was not present and was determined to have fled, failing to return to the location of the accident.
Investigation revealed that the motor vehicle had been taken from the registered owner without consent.
Officers searched the vicinity and located the accused in a nearby backyard, attempting to hide from police in a port-a-potty. At this time, the accused was taken into custody. During interaction with officers, the accused demonstrated behaviour consistent with, and was believed to be, impaired by drugs.
The drug recognition evaluation was conducted and the accused was found to be impaired.
Further investigation revealed that the accused is currently a prohibited and suspended driver and is currently bound by a court ordered a probation and two release orders.
As a result of the investigation, a 29-year-old female from Brantford stands charged with the following:
- Operation while impaired contrary to the Criminal Code
- Possession of Stolen Goods under $5000 contrary to the Criminal Code
- Take motor vehicle without consent contrary to the Criminal Code
- Operation while prohibited contrary to the Criminal Code
- Fail to stop after accident contrary to the Criminal Code
- Fail to comply with Judicial Release contrary to the Criminal Code
- Fail to comply with Judicial Release contrary to the Criminal Code
- Breach of probation contrary to the Criminal Code
- Drive while under suspension contrary to the Highway Traffic Act
Type: Impaired Driving - Alcohol
Incident: 21-6099
Location: Wayne Gretzky Parkway / Henry Street
On Saturday, February 20, 2021, at approximately 7:20 p.m., Brantford Police Service received a 9-1-1 call from a concerned citizen who witnessed a collision where a single motor vehicle had hit a pole in the area of Wayne Gretzky Parkway and Henry Street.
Officers with the Brantford Police Service arrived on scene and, in speaking with the female driver, observed signs of impairment.
The accused provided a suitable sample of breath, which resulted in a "Fail”. The accused was then transported to the Brantford Police Station where she provided two samples of breath, as required by law. Both samples provided were over three times the legal limit.
As a result of the investigation, a 28 year-old female from Brantford stands charged with the following Criminal Code violations:
- Impaired Operation
- 80 Plus
Type: Impaired Driving - Alcohol
Incident: 21-6114
Location: St. George Street
On Saturday, February 20, 2021, at approximately 10:35 p.m., the Brantford Police Service received a 9-1-1 call from a concerned citizen to attend a location on St. George Street regarding a possible impaired driver. Information was received to advise a male driver had his vehicle stuck in the snow bank on the boulevard. The caller was able to provide a description of the suspect male, as well as the license plate of the vehicle.
Arriving on scene, officers observed the motor vehicle lodged in the snow bank. The driver of the vehicle was confirmed to have just left the scene as a passenger of a different vehicle.
A traffic stop was subsequently conducted on this fleeing vehicle, and the accused was located in the passenger seat. The identity of the accused was confirmed to be the registered owner of the vehicle lodged in the snow bank.
Upon dealing with the accused, officers observed signs of impairment.
The accused provided a suitable sample of breath, which registered a "Fail”. The accused was then transported in order to provided two samples of breath, as required by law. Both samples provided were in excess of the legal limit.
As a result of the investigation, a 56-year-old male from Brantford stands charged with the following Criminal Code violations:
- Operation While Impaired
- 80 Plus
Public Safety in Partnership with our Community
BPS Street Crime Unit Arrest Three for Drug Trafficking Charges
Incident 21-6443
In early February, 2021 members of the Brantford Police Service Street Crime Unit initiated a drug trafficking investigation within the City of Brantford.
As the investigation progressed, on Tuesday, February 23, 2021, officers received judicial authorization to enter and search a dwelling located on Darling Street, Brantford. In the evening hours of February 23, 2021, members of the Brantford Police Service Emergency Response Team and Street Crime Unit executed the search warrant and arrested three individuals inside the home.
As a result of the search, the following items were seized:
- 70 grams (approx.) of cocaine (suspected) with an estimated street value of $7000
- Various prescription medication
- Canadian Currency
- A prohibited weapon
- Weighing scales and drug packaging
As a result of the investigation, the following persons are facing criminal charges:
A 30-year-old male from Brantford is charged with:
- Possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking x 3 under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act
- Possession of a prohibited weapon under the Criminal Code
A 33-year-old male from Brantford is charged with:
- Possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking x 3 under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act
- Possession of a prohibited weapon under the Criminal Code
A 30-year-old female from Brantford is charged with:
- Possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking x 3 under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act
- Possession of a prohibited weapon under the Criminal Code
Anyone with information on any other drug-related activities is asked to contact the Street Crime Unit of the Brantford Police Service at 519-756-0113 ext. 2286.
Tipsters who wish to remain anonymous are asked to contact Brant- Brantford Crime Stoppers at 519-750-8477 or 1-800-222-8477. Alternatively, a web tip may be submitted at: https://www.tipsubmit.com/WebTips.aspx?AgencyID=251
Public Safety in Partnership with our Community
60-year-old Brantford Man Arrested For Child Pornography Related Offences
Incident 20-34108
On October 26, 2020, the Internet Child Exploitation Unit of the Brantford Police Service executed a Search Warrant at a residence located on Mission Road, Brantford. As a result of the search warrant, several electronic devices were seized from the residence. A forensic examination of these electronic devices has since been conducted and were found to contain images of child pornography.
As a result of the investigation, on Tuesday, February 23, 2021 a 60-year-old male, who resides on Mission Road, Brantford, was charged with three counts of Possession of Child Pornography and two counts of Distribution of Child Pornography. He has been held for a Bail Hearing.
Anyone with information relating to internet sexual crimes against children is urged to call Detective Michael Korda or Detective Balbir Singh of the Brantford Police Service ICE Section at 519-756-0113.
Tipsters who wish to remain anonymous are asked to contact Brant-Brantford Crime Stoppers at 519-750-8477 or 1-800-222-8477. Alternatively, a web tip may be submitted at: https://www.tipsubmit.com/WebTips.aspx?AgencyID=251
Provincial Strategy to Protect Children from Sexual Exploitation on the Internet
On March 29, 2007, alongside the OPP Child Exploitation Section and 26 other municipal police services, the Brantford Police Service joined the Provincial Strategy to Protect Children from Sexual Exploitation on the Internet.
The online exploitation of children continues to be a challenge for investigators due to its sheer volume, global reach and anonymity; however, these police partners and the Provincial Government are committed to making a difference in our communities.
The Brantford Police Service supports this strategy, and has recognized that images of children and child abuse placed on the internet lead to perpetual victimization.
This project has been made possible by a grant from the Ministry of the Solicitor General.
Internet Safety Tips
Brantford Police Service is committed to ensuring the safety of our community’s children and taking action against online sexual abuse and sexual exploitation of children.
The following information is provided to assist parents and caregivers to understand internet safety.
These simple tips can help the youngest members of your family stay safe online:
- Consider creating an internet contract with your child and have all parties sign it.
- Let your child know that you will be monitoring their online activities.
- Reinforce the fact that not everyone is who they say they are online.
- Discuss how pictures should not be sent or posted online without parental permission.
- Discuss sharing personal information online; never share their password with anyone other than their parents. Review the risks of personal information being misused online.
- Use only child-safe search engines such as: www.askkids.com www.kidsyahoo.com or www.kidsclick.org
- Encourage your child to trust in their instincts and stop, block, and tell if they are uncomfortable.
- Talk to your child about the consequences of being involved in any incidents that include cyberbullying, sexting, etc.
- Make sure your child understands that they can talk to you about anything on the internet.
As a parent, what can you do?
- Place your child’s computer in a common area. Set expectations for your child’s online and cell phone activities.
- Monitor your child’s activities online. Ask your child to show you what they are doing online, and be aware of whom they are talking to.
- Retrieve your child’s login information, e-mail addresses and password.
- If your child joins any social networking or gaming sites, help them create their online profile. Remember to only fill in information that is necessary and leave out any revealing information.
- Monitor ALL webcam use, and any posting or exchanging of pictures online.
- Do not allow your child to communicate in chat rooms.
- Use filtering software on computers.
- Communicate openly with your child. Encourage them to report any situation or information that makes them feel uncomfortable.
- Be aware of signs that your child may be in trouble:
- They quickly turn the computer or phone off when you walk into the room.
- Your child seems worried, withdrawn or depressed.
- Your child contacts, or is contacted by a person you do not know.
- If your child is being harassed or threatened, save the evidence and contact the police.
Additional Online Safety Resources
- Safe Kids Canada www.safekidscanada.com
- Cyber Tip www.cybertip.com
- Be Web Aware www.bewebaware.ca
- Kids in the Know www.kidsintheknow.ca
- Canadian Centre of Child Protection www.protectchildren.ca
Public Safety in Partnership with our Community
Crime Brief: February 19, 2021
Type: Weapons
Incident: 21-4996
Location: Colborne Street
On Thursday, February 11, 2021, at approximately 5:13 p.m., Officers with the Brantford Police Service conducted a traffic stop in the area of Colborne Street near Kiwanis Way.
Investigation revealed that the driver of the motor vehicle was bound by numerous undertakings with specific conditions to not be in contact with several individuals, one who was a confirmed occupant of the vehicle. The driver was placed under arrest for failure to comply with an undertaking.
A search incident to arrest, found the accused to be in possession of pepper spray and cannabis. The accused was also found to be in possession of a counterfeit Canadian currency.
As a result of the investigation, a 49-year-old male from Brantford stands charged with the following under the Criminal Code:
- Failure to Comply with Undertaking
- Possession of Weapon for Dangerous Purpose
- Carrying Concealed Weapon
- Drive Vehicle with Cannabis Readily Available
- Possessing Counterfeit Money
Type: Drug Trafficking
Incident: 21-5341
Location: Colborne Street at Drummond Street
On Sunday, February 14, 2021 at approximately 5:46 p.m., Brantford Police Officers observed a motor vehicle travelling eastbound on Colborne Street, near Murray Street. The officers conducted a traffic stop after the motor vehicle attempted to perform an evasive maneuver.
Investigation revealed that male passenger of the vehicle was bound by conditions to not be in contact with the female driver. The female driver was determined to be operating the motor vehicle with a suspended drivers licence. Both parties were subsequently arrested.
A search incident to arrest found the accused female to be in possession of approximately 0.4 grams of suspected fentanyl.
A search incident to arrest found the accused male to be in possession of the following:
- 7 grams (approx.) of suspected cocaine with an estimated street value of $712
- 38.5 grams (approx.) suspected crack cocaine with an estimated street value of $3850
- 9.9 grams (approx.) of suspected fentanyl with an estimated street value of $4120
- 2 bottles of methadone with an estimated street value of $200
- Canadian currency
- Multiple cellphones, an electronic weight scale and drug paraphernalia
As a result of the investigation, a 33-year-old male from Brantford stands charged with the following:
- Possession for the Purpose Schedule 1- X 4 under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act and,
- Failure to Comply with Undertaking under the Criminal Code
Additionally, a 37-year-old female, from Jarvis stands charged with the following:
- Possession for the Purpose Schedule 1 under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, and
- Driving While Under Suspension under the Highway Traffic Act
The accused male was held for bail.
Type: Possession of Stolen Property
Incident: 21-5652
Location: Harris Avenue
On Wednesday, February 17, 2021 at approximately 3:45 p.m., officers with the Brantford Police Service conducted a traffic stop on a motor vehicle in the area of Henry Street and Harris Avenue. The licence plate attached to the subject motor vehicle was determined to have been previously reported as stolen.
Speaking with the driver of the vehicle, investigation revealed that the accused did not have a driver’s licence or insurance for the subject motor vehicle. It was also determined that the licence plate attached to the motor vehicle had previously been reported as stolen.
As a result of the investigation, the subject vehicle was seized and a 19-year-old male from Brantford stands charged with the following:
- Possession of Stolen Property Under $5000 – under the Criminal Code
- Drive motor vehicle - no license - under the Highway Traffic Act
- Use plate not authorized for motor vehicle – under the Highway Traffic Act
- Drive motor vehicle, no validation on plate – under the Highway Traffic Act
- Operate a motor vehicle without insurance - under the Canadian Automobile Insurance Act
Public Safety in Partnership with our Community
Criminal Negligence Causing Death Charges Laid
Incident
21-5074
On Friday, February 12, 2021 Brantford Police entered into an investigation relating to the death of a young child inside a city residence. Due to the circumstances surrounding the death, members with the Brantford Police Service Major Crime Unit and Forensic Identification Services were called in to lead the investigation.
Officers worked with the Coroner’s Office and Center of Forensic Sciences to assist in determining the cause of death. As a result of the investigation, police have charged two relatives of the child with Criminal Negligence Causing Death.
Due to a publication ban, police are unable to release further details at this time.
Public Safety in Partnership with our Community
Public Safety - Drug Awareness
From
February 12 to 15, 2021, the Brantford Police Service have assisted Emergency
Medical Services in regards to three suspected drug overdose fatalities, which
are believed to be as a result of drugs being mixed with suspected Fentanyl. In
the three separate incidents; a 37-year-old female, a 60-year-old-female and a
32-year-old male have all tragically lost their lives.
The Brantford
Police Service is asking that the community be made aware of these occurrences
and risks of drug use. Please use caution when using any type of drug that is
not prescribed to you. If you are a new drug user you are particularly at risk
should you use drugs that may be cut with or contain Fentanyl.
If you think someone is suffering from a drug overdose, call 9-1-1- immediately. If available give the person Naloxone. Naloxone is an emergency medication that temporarily reverses the effects of an overdose from opioids such as fentanyl, heroin, methadone, morphine. You can give naloxone while you wait for emergency services to arrive. Remember naloxone can temporarily reverse an overdose but it can wear off before the person has completely recovered. Always call 9-1-1 and be treated by Emergency Medical Services. If you yourself have taken drugs or have drugs on you, the Good Samaritan Law can protect you.
If you think someone is suffering from a drug overdose, call 9-1-1- immediately. If available give the person Naloxone. Naloxone is an emergency medication that temporarily reverses the effects of an overdose from opioids such as fentanyl, heroin, methadone, morphine. You can give naloxone while you wait for emergency services to arrive. Remember naloxone can temporarily reverse an overdose but it can wear off before the person has completely recovered. Always call 9-1-1 and be treated by Emergency Medical Services. If you yourself have taken drugs or have drugs on you, the Good Samaritan Law can protect you.
While the BPS advises against using illicit drugs, people who choose to use them should:
- Never use alone
- Start with a small amount
- Do not mix substances, including alcohol, as it increases risk of overdose
- Call 911 right away if they think someone is overdosing
- Make a plan and know how to respond in case of an overdose
- Use where help is easily available
- Be prepared to give breaths and/or administer Naloxone until help arrives. Have a kit accessible at all times and KNOW how to use it.
Know the signs of an overdose:
- Can’t stay awake
- No strength or energy
- Cold, clammy skin
- Slow heartbeat
- Trouble breathing
- Slow, shallow breathing
- Gurgling or snoring sounds
- Lips and/or fingernails blue or purple
- Non-responsive to shouting
For more information please visit www.FentanylCanKill.ca
If you have information about suspected drug activity please contact the Brantford Police Service at 519- 756-7050. Tipsters who wish to remain anonymous are asked to contact Brant- Brantford Crime Stoppers at 519-750-8477 or 1-800-222-8477. Alternatively, a web tip may be submitted at: https://www.tipsubmit.com/WebTips.aspx?AgencyID=251
BPS Warn Residents about CRA Phone Scam
Incident 21-4769
Brantford Police Service are issuing a warning to residents after receiving a report from a victim who had been fraudulently contacted by callers falsely identifying themselves as from the Canadian Revenue Agency and the Brantford Police Service.
On February 9, 2021, a local woman received a call believed to be from the Canada Revenue Agency demanding payment of a fictitious debt to avoid arrest. In an attempt to verify the legitimacy of the demands, the victim also received a call from an individual who falsely identified himself as a Brantford Police Officer. These calls utilized "spoofing” technology, which caused the phone display to appear as though the call had originated from the Brantford Police Service.
In this incident, the victim was instructed that she was required to withdraw cash from her bank and deposit the funds into a Bitcoin machine to avoid arrest. The victim deposited $15,600 to the Bitcoin machine before reporting the incident to the Brantford Police Service.
BPS would like the public to be alert regarding this type of scam as the suspects were able to successfully clone the Brantford Police Station phone number and when calling, identified themselves as Brantford Police Officers.
Spoofing scams such as these can appear legitimate as they often involve the use of technology, which can cause a phone display to show a local telephone number, or a Brantford Police Service registered phone number. Caller ID spoofing allows fraudsters to disguise their calls and make them appear to represent a legitimate organization. Do not trust what is showing on your phone’s caller ID display. If you suspect a company or government agency is seeking personal information or money fraudulently, contact them directly to verify the validity of the request.
Residents are advised to be cautious of such scams and to be advised that no such calls are being made from any phone number associated with the Brantford Police Service.
Members of the Canadian Revenue Agency and the Brantford Police Service will not call you and ask for your banking information while threatening your arrest. The Canadian Revenue Agency does not accept e-transfers, gift cards, crypto-currency or wire payments for any fees or services. The CRA never uses text messages or instant messaging such as Facebook Messenger or WhatsApp to communicate with taxpayers. Any text or instant message claiming to be from the CRA is a scam.
The Canadian Revenue Agency can be reached at 1-800-959-8281, or you can monitor "My Account” online at http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/scrty/frdprvntn/menu-eng.html
The Brantford Police Service wish to remind residents of the importance of fraud education and protecting oneself from becoming a victim. Please see below for tips on how to protect yourself from fraud. We also encourage spreading the word to those, such as the elderly, who may be particularly vulnerable to these fraudsters and may be targets of these high-pressure scams.
TIPS:
- DO NOT provide personal information (e.g. Social Insurance Number, passport number, banking information or credit card numbers) over the phone unless you placed the call and you know for certain who you are speaking to.
- Accredited businesses and Government Agencies will never ask for payment using gift cards or bitcoin.
- If you suspect it is a scam, it may be - just hang up. Conduct your own research to determine validity.
- Never wire money based on a request made over the phone or in an email, especially overseas.
- Resist the pressure to act quickly, if the offer is too good to be true, it probably is.
- Consider adding your phone number to the Nation Do Not Call List: www.Innte-dncl.gc.ca/index-eng
- Consult with someone you trust before agreeing to provide large sums of money to anyone.
- DO NOT write down passwords and carry them with you.
If you have already sent funds and/or your personal information, contact the police and your financial institution immediately. If you believe that you have been a victim of fraud and reside in the City of Brantford, contact the Brantford Police Service at 519-756-7050 or 519-756-0113. You can also report online at: https://www.brantfordpolice.ca/online-reporting
If you have not experienced a financial loss but have received a fraudulent call, such as the CRA scam, please report the incident by calling the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or http://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraud.ca/index-eng.htm
Public Safety in Partnership with our Community
