An investigation into bullying, thefts and assaults involving youth in north Oshawa has resulted in 14 arrests and 38 charges, said Durham Police.
Responding to multiple complaints from educators and students at Maxwell Heights Secondary School on Coldstream Drive in Oshawa, Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) formed a project team and launched an investigation in early December, said a media release.
Upon successful completion of the investigation, a group of current and former students, identifying themselves as a ‘street gang’, were found to be intimidating others through threats of violence to steal smartphones, jewelry and other personal possessions. The 13 youth involved were all male and ranged in age from 12 to 17. One adult was also charged. In total there were 38 charges, including theft, assault, forcible confinement and intimidation, it added.
Victims were threatened not to go to police or any adults with information. Fortunately, reports were made and analysts noticed an increase in street-level robberies and related activities in the area in 2019.
Durham District School Board (DDSB) officials co-operated fully with the investigation and both the DRPS and the DDSB are committed to working closely together to maintain the safety and well-being of students, staff, and community members.
Durham Regional Police will continue to identify and investigate any issues of violence and intimidation in local schools. Anyone with new information is asked to call the DRPS at 1-888-579-1520.