Seven teens charged in Vaughan home invasion
ALIYAH MARKO
Toronto Star STAFF REPORTER
A violent, targeted home invasion in Vaughan that was underway when police arrived, with suspects inside the residence and some waiting in stolen vehicles, has resulted in the arrests of seven teens, including a 13-year-old.
York Regional Police said a victim suffered serious injuries in the Friday night attack and was treated at hospital. An eighth suspect in handcuffs escaped and is wanted. Three of the seven arrested were in breach of their bail conditions, including two young offenders. Officers on ground and in a helicopter responded to a home invasion shortly after 9 p.m. in the Ventura Way and Beverley Glen Boulevard area. Police believe it was a targeted robbery.
Police said in a news release Saturday the suspects in the stolen vehicles tried to flee, but crashed into police vehicles, and then ran. Officers caught four and took them into custody. One handcuffed male escaped. Three were arrested inside
the residence. The seven teens face more than 40 charges in connection with the home invasion.
Two 18-year-old males face 13 charges, including assault with a weapon, robbery with a firearm, and disguise with intent One was charged with failing to comply with release order.
Four 17-year-old males face 26 charges, including robbery with a firearm, disguise with intent, and assault with a firearm. One was charged with failing to comply with the Youth Criminal Justice Act
A 13-year-old male also faces eight charges including robbery with a firearm, disguise with intent, and assault with a weapon. He is also charged with failing to comply with a release order.
“This is another example of offenders being out on bail while committing serious criminal offences in our communities,” said Chief Jim MacSween. “The safety of our communities and the wellbeing of our officers requires a bail system that addresses repeat violent offenders effectively while upholding public trust.”
