Fake Plates Lead to Gun

Sharp-eyed police officers noticed fake licence plates on a vehicle, leading to recovering a stolen SUV and taking a handgun off the street.

“This arrest highlights the dedication, vigilance and quick response of our members whose actions ensured that dangerous weapons are kept off our streets and stolen property is returned to its rightful owner,” said Superintendent Donovan Locke.

On October 17, 2024 at approximately 8:30 p.m., the Division’s Major Crime Unit officers spotted what appeared to be fake licence plates on an SUV in the Leslie Street and York Mills Road area, running the plates to find the vehicle did not match the plates.

When the SUV pulled into a gas station, the teenage driver and a man in the passenger seat got out of the vehicle and were approached by officers.

The man was arrested and officers found a loaded firearm in a satchel he was carrying.

The 15-year-old driver ran and was arrested after a foot pursuit.

Constables Colin Postma and Jessica Franken were the arresting officers.

It is alleged that they also recovered $2,300 in cash, cocaine and an automobile master key in their possession.

Zidane Kirkpatrick, 18, is facing 10 charges, including firearm and proceeds of crime under $5,000 possession.

A 15-year-old youth was charged with possession of property obtained by crime and possession of an automobile master key.

“I want to thank our officers for their professionalism and commitment as well as the community for their trust and cooperation. This is just one example of how we can achieve positive outcomes when we stand united,” Locke said, of engaging the community.

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-3300, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), or at www.222tips.com.