Toronto police warn public about pickpockets ahead of Pride, Canada Day

Participants carry a pride flag as they walk in the Toronto Pride Parade, on Sunday June 25, 2023. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chris Young

Toronto police are warning the public to be on the lookout for potential pickpockets ahead of several major events in the city over the next few days.

At a news conference Friday, Insp. Trish Johnston from 51 Division said it’s expected to be a very busy few days in the city, with thousands of people expected to celebrate Toronto Pride in the Church Wellesley Village area, alongside visitors for major events like FIFA World Cup and a number of other festivals.

“Our message is simple: enjoy the festivities, stay safe and look out for one another. The Toronto Police Service will have a visible presence alongside parade routes, major events, and other festivals throughout the city to ensure public safety,” Johnston said.

“We respect the right to peaceful protests and ask everyone to respect the event, each other, and the community.”

Johnston also issued a warning to people to safeguard their belongings and to make sure they don’t bring valuables they won’t need.

“Please keep an eye on your belongings. Pickpocketing, especially cell phone theft, is very common during large events and in large crowds. A moment of distraction is all it takes to separate you from your valuables,” she said.

At Pride last year, there were 102 incidents of cellphone theft and pickpocketing reported to police, Johnston said.

She recommended keeping valuables in your front pocket or a zippered pouch.

“Only bring valuables that you need to the events,” Johnston said. “Look after your friends and please plan a safe way home.”

Large crowds expected for Canada Day

Speaking alongside Johnston, Supt. David Correa said police are also preparing for a busy Canada Day at Ashbridges Bay and Woodbine Beach on Wednesday and advised people to plan ahead and heed safety warnings.

“We expect large crowds throughout the day and evening, particularly for the City of Toronto’s fireworks display at Ashbridges Bay,” Correa said.

Following more public disorder than expected on Victoria Day, with six or seven people arrested, police will be bolstering their numbers for Canada Day despite resources being stretched thin, he said.

“We’ve had to tap into every corner of our division to be able to get resources that are available. We’ve redeployed our officers, some that aren’t uniform officers, and converted them into uniformed personnel,” Correa said. “So, we have to be very strict, we have to be very creative and be able to move these resources around, because we do have a finite amount of officers to be used, and we have competing events that day.”

He said the public can nevertheless expect to see a “significant police presence” in the area, including officers on foot, bicycles, ATVs, and horseback.

“We want everyone to enjoy the holiday, but we also want to be clear: unsafe or unlawful behaviour will not be tolerated,” Correa said. “If there is a risk to public safety, or if emergency responders are prevented from doing their jobs, officers will take appropriate enforcement action and effect arrests where needed.”

In particular, he said police are reminding people not to use fireworks at beaches or in parks.

Alcohol and drones are also prohibited on beaches, Correa said, and bonfires require city permits.

“Our message is simple: enjoy the holiday, respect the community, follow the rules, and look out for one another,” he said.

People are being advised to use public transit where possible, as there will be “considerable” traffic congestion and road restrictions will be in place in the area.