A York Regional Police patch is shown in Aurora, Ont., on Dec. 19, 2022. The Canadian Press/Arlyn McAdorey
Four teens are facing charges after police uncovered a “network” linked to more than 50 break-ins during which intruders forcibly entered homes in the Toronto region to steal keys for high-end vehicles.
The weeks-long investigation, dubbed “Project Howler,” has uncovered a group of suspects associated with a network believed to be responsible for a number of break-ins and vehicle thefts, police said. The suspects have been accused of wielding weapons, including guns, during some of the incidents.
Officers trailed a group of suspects on Aug. 26 in a vehicle that had been reported stolen from Richmond Hill the previous day, police said. Officers conducted a takedown at roughly 11 p.m. that evening in Toronto’s Thorncliffe Park neighbourhood, and three youths were arrested after a short foot chase. Police also recovered seven stolen vehicles.
A fourth teenager was charged on Aug. 28 in connection with the incidents, police said.
Four boys from Toronto are facing a total of 19 charges. A 17-year-old and a 13-year-old each face three counts of possession of property obtained by a crime over $5,000 and trafficking property obtained by a crime over $5,000, as well as possession of an automobile master key.
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Another 17-year-old faces the same trafficking and possession charges as well as a dangerous operation charge while a 14-year-old is facing two possession charges, one dangerous operation charge, and failure to comply with a probation order.
None of the teenagers can be identified under the provisions of the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
“Investigators are continuing to review evidence related to the Project Howler incidents,” police said. “Additional charges are anticipated, and the investigation is ongoing.”
Despite a notable nationwide decline in car thefts, residential break-and-enters specifically targeting car keys have not declined, according to 2025 statistics.
Toronto police have said while residents should always prioritize personal safety over one’s vehicle, there are steps they can take to reduce the risk of theft such as ensuring driveways are well lit, keeping exterior lights on all night, and installing security cameras and a home security system if possible.
Other suggestions include putting security film on glass windows and doors, having multipoint door locks on doors, and keeping backyard gates locked and ground windows secured.
