Halton Region Seeing Increase in Break and Enter Occurrences

The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) is beginning to see an increase in residential break and enters occurring in the region. Investigators have noted that homes backing onto, or located near, trail systems and green spaces are being specifically targeted.

Thieves are taking advantage of reduced daylight hours, with most break-ins occurring between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. Unlit and unoccupied homes are particularly vulnerable. In many cases, suspects gain entry by smashing rear doors or windows using tools, exploiting the darkness to conceal their movements.

Police believe organized crime groups responsible for similar offences across the region are behind these increases.

Before committing these crimes, suspects often conduct surveillance on neighbourhoods—waiting for residents to return home from work and then leave again for evening errands such as grocery shopping or children’s sports. Entry is typically made once they believe the home is empty.

Once inside, thieves quickly ransack bedrooms and other areas, targeting cash, jewelry, luxury items, and government identification. Most incidents are completed within minutes, with suspects fleeing undetected.

Suspects are typically dressed in dark clothing, gloves, facial coverings, and backpacks, allowing them to blend in with pedestrian traffic along residential streets and trail systems.

Police are urging residents to remain vigilant and to immediately report any suspicious persons, activity, or vehicles to police.

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 glass film, upgraded deadbolts, and door reinforcement hardware.
• Use a home security system, audible alarm, and CCTV cameras (interior and exterior).
• Install outdoor motion lighting to ensure your property remains well-lit.
• Leave interior lights, music, or other audible noise on when leaving the home.
• Dogs can serve as a deterrent.
• Trim hedges and greenery to improve visibility around your property.
• Notify trusted neighbours if you’ll be away for an extended period, and consider a house sitter.
• Maintain the appearance that your home is occupied (e.g., lawn care, snow removal).
• Store valuables in a secure, well-hidden safe or location.
• Review your home insurance policy to ensure adequate coverage for valuables.

Additional safety tips can be found here: Burglary Prevention | Halton Regional Police Service

Anyone with information related to these break and enter occurrences is asked to contact the Halton Regional Police Service at 905-825-4777. Criminal Investigations Bureaus located within Individual Divisions can be contacted via the below extensions:

1 District Milton – ext. 2416

2 District Oakville – ext. 2216

3 District Burlington – ext. 2316

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 online at www.haltoncrimestoppers.ca.

Media Inquiries:

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