The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) has made an arrest and laid multiple charges in connection to an auto theft ring operating in Ontario and transporting stolen vehicles to Quebec.

The investigation began in March of 2023, and involves the thefts of numerous vehicles in Halton and the GTA. On September 5, 2023, Samuel Laplante (23) of Laval Quebec was located in Halton Hills and subsequently arrested in Toronto. At the time of his arrest, Laplante was also wanted by three additional police services for charges related to auto thefts.

He has been charged (by Halton) with the following offences:

  • Theft of Motor Vehicle
  • Possession of Stolen Property
  • Fail to Comply with Release Order (2 counts)
  • Fail to Comply with Undertaking

Laplante was held in custody pending a bail hearing.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact the 2 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905-825-4777 ext. 2216.

Tips can also be submitted anonymously to Crime Stoppers. "See something? Hear something? Know something? Contact Crime Stoppers" at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or through the web at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca.

Media Inquiries:

Halton Regional Police Service
Media Relations

905-825-4899

Email: corpcomm@haltonpolice.ca