Tow Truck Joint Forces investigation leads to 20 arrests and 111 charges

A Toronto Police-led Joint Forces operation into violent and criminal acts linked to the tow truck industry has led to 20 arrests, 111 charges and the seizure of two firearms and four vehicles.

Durham and York Regional Police Services and the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) were also part of Project Yankee that started in October 2024.

“As a result of our investigation, several acts of violence on a mass scale were deterred and prevented,” Chief Myron Demkiw said at a news conference at police headquarters on June 18. “We remain committed to addressing tow-truck industry-related crimes with a service-wide approach and also by working closely with our law enforcement partners as we did in this investigation.”

Chief Superintendent Joe Matthews said the violence was focused in east end of Toronto,  Durham and York regions.

Project Yankee subsequently led to a wiretap investigation targeting individuals associated with ‘The Union’ and its members.

Teams, led by the Integrated Gun and Gang Task Force-Major Projects Section, gathered evidence, identifying ‘The Union’ members as a criminal organization responsible for multiple acts of violence, intimidation and extortion. The acts of intimidation included arson.

Project Yankee ended on June 11 with the execution of 14 search warrants.

The 111 charges include 52 counts of Conspiracy to Commit Murder.

“We understand there will be many questions about this investigation and, under different circumstances, we would welcome the opportunity to provide more information,” said Matthews. “However, a court-imposed publication ban prevents us from sharing further details at this time. These restrictions are in place to protect the integrity of the ongoing investigation, safeguard the court process and help us ensure that those arrested are held accountable and receive a fair trial.”

Since 2023, Toronto and the Greater Toronto Area region have experienced a sharp increase in crimes linked to individuals and groups vying for control of the towing industry. These include homicides, shootings, arsons, intimidation and extortion.

“This is why collaboration with other law enforcement partners continues to be essential,” added Matthews. “While most operators adhere to regulations, the violence largely stems from territorial disputes and competition within a small segment of the tow truck industry. Obviously, our investigators focus on deterring violence and targeting those responsible, but we also know that sustainable solutions involve collaboration with regulatory agencies, policymakers and industry stakeholders to strengthen oversight and accountability within the tow truck industry.”

Last year, 63 firearm discharge and shooting incidents were linked to tow truck-related disputes, accounting for almost 13 percent of all shootings and firearm discharges in the city.

This year, these incidents continue to soar, accounting for nearly 15 percent of the total.

“The dismantling of yet another criminal organization sends a clear message that no matter how deeply entrenched within any industry, these groups have no place in the communities we serve,” said

Inspector Marco Napoleoni of York Regional Police Service Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau. “We remain committed to protecting our communities, enforcing the law and ensuring public safety always comes first.”

OPP Chief Superintendent Mike Stoddart said Project Yankee results demonstrate the severity of the violence.

“The OPP and our partners recognize the impact of the violence associated to turf wars within the towing industry and illegitimate tow operators,” he pointed out. “We will continue to collaborate on these important investigations which have a direct impact on the safety of the communities we serve.”

Demkiw thanked the provincial government for their support and funding through Criminal Intelligence Service Ontario and the other police services and TPS units for their determination to bring dangerous suspects to justice and prevent further harm.

“We often talk about the work been done behind the scenes,” he said. “This is a great example of our officers working day in and day out to make a difference. Every time our members seize a gun, arrest a dangerous suspect and deter and prevent violence, they make Toronto safer.”

The Chief also acknowledged Toronto Police Service Board Chair Shelley Carroll and her Board for their ongoing support.

“Investing in our Service and in our multi-year hiring helps us do our jobs,” said Demkiw. “It helps us deliver results. So far in 2025, shootings and firearm discharges are down 43 percent compared to the same time last year. But we can’t take this for granted and we must remain vigilant. Gun violence has devastating effects in our communities. Some of the tow truck industry-related shootings that we have seen in the past months happened in public spaces. These events underscore the importance of the law reform we have asked for in the past.”

Last week, the Chief was in Ottawa to discuss law reforms, including reform to help address shootings in congregate settings.

“Gun violence has no place in our city,” he said. “And we will continue to make that very clear.”