News Release

The Toronto Police Service would like to make the public aware of an arrest made in a series of purse thefts that have occurred in the Weston Road and Lawrence Avenue West area.

It is alleged that:

• Between Tuesday, September 1, 2026 and Wednesday, October 6, 2026, the accused attended various stores targeting senior citizens who would place their purses and handbags in the upper area of their shopping cart
• the accused would then await the opportunity when the victim would turn their attention away from their belongings, take possession of the item and flee the store

On Tuesday, October 6, 2026, members of Toronto Police – 12 Division responded to a radio call of a suspect matching the description.

Ashante Whittaker, 29, of Toronto, was arrested and charged with:

1. four counts of Theft Under $5,000
2. two counts of Unauthorized Use of Credit Card
3. two counts of Fraud Under

She is scheduled to appear in court at the Ontario Court of Justice, 10 Armoury Street, on Friday, January 8, 2027, at 2:00 p.m., in room 201.

Police believe there may be more victims.

Images have been released.

Officers are reminding the public to be cognizant of your belongings such as cell phones, wallets, and parcels when attending events and shopping locations where crowds are present during the holiday season.

To avoid becoming a victim of theft: 

• Always keep personal items secure and within sight
• Use zipped bags, cross-body straps, and internal pockets to reduce pickpocketing risks
• Avoid placing wallets or phones in back pockets
• Do not leave parcels or shopping bags unattended, even momentarily
• Store items in vehicle trunks before arriving at your destination and ensure all doors and windows are locked
• Remain aware of your surroundings and report suspicious behavior to on-site security or the Toronto Police Service

To report a Theft Under $5000, please refer to the Toronto Police Service website here.

For safety tips on Distraction Thefts, please refer to our Toronto Police website here.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-1200, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), or at www.222tips.com.