The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) is investigating a recent spike in residential break and enters targeting homes located near greenspaces and trail systems across the region.

Investigators have identified a pattern in which suspects focus on houses that back onto, or are in close proximity to, wooded areas, ravines, and walking paths. In many cases, entry is gained by smashing rear doors or windows using tools.

Police believe organized crime groups are responsible for these incidents. These groups typically move quickly from neighbourhood to neighbourhood — sometimes within the same town — striking multiple homes in a short period of time before relocating. Suspects often wear dark clothing, gloves, facial coverings, and backpacks, allowing them to blend in with pedestrians on residential streets and trail systems.

Once inside, thieves rapidly search bedrooms and other areas, targeting cash, jewelry, luxury goods, and government-issued identification. Most break-ins are completed within minutes, and suspects often flee through nearby greenspaces, making detection more difficult. These incidents are occurring during both daytime and evening hours.

Addressing residential break and enters is a priority for the HRPS. In response, police have increased patrols in affected neighbourhoods, particularly in areas backing onto trail systems and greenspaces, and have deployed additional investigative resources. Investigators are actively reviewing surveillance footage, canvassing for video, and analyzing offence patterns as the investigations continue.

Police urge residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious persons, vehicles, or activity immediately. Security video and timely, detailed descriptions — such as clothing, vehicles, or licence plate information — are particularly valuable to investigators.

Crime Prevention Tips

Residents are reminded of the following steps to help keep their homes secure, regardless of location:

• Lock and secure all doors, windows, and fenced yard gates.
• Consider installing shatter-resistant window film, upgraded deadbolts, and door-reinforcement hardware.
• Use a home security system, audible alarm, and interior/exterior CCTV cameras.
• Install outdoor motion lighting to keep the property well-lit at night.
• Leave interior lights, music, or other ambient noise on when leaving the home.
• Dogs — of any size — can serve as an effective deterrent.
• Trim hedges and greenery to improve sightlines around your property.
• Notify trusted neighbours if you will be away for an extended period, or consider hiring a house sitter.
• Maintain the appearance that your home is occupied (e.g., lawn maintenance, snow removal).
• Store valuables in a secure, well-hidden safe.
• Review your home insurance policy to ensure it adequately covers valuables.

Additional Safety Tips can be found on our website here: Residential and Business Safety - Halton Regional Police Service. And a video with additional information can be here on our YouTube channel here.

Anyone with information related to these incidents is asked to contact the Halton Regional Police Service at 905-825-4777. Criminal Investigations Bureaus within each District can be reached at the extensions below:

1 District (Milton and Halton Hills): ext. 2416
2 District (Oakville): ext. 2216
3 District (Burlington): ext. 2316

Tips may also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers: “See something? Hear something? Know something? Contact Crime Stoppers.” Call 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or visit haltoncrimestoppers.ca.

Media Inquiries:

Halton Regional Police Service
Media Relations
Phone: 905-825-4899
Email: corpcomm@haltonpolice.ca