Halton Regional Police have dismantled two significant auto theft rings operating within Oakville, leading to the arrest of four individuals and the recovery of stolen property. The crackdown, part of two distinct investigations known as Project Disconnect and Project Joker, highlights a broader effort to combat organized criminal networks operating across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area (GTHA).
Chief Stephen Tanner emphasized the severity of these operations in a statement released Thursday, noting that the impact extends beyond simple property loss. “Auto theft is not a victimless property crime. It is driven by organized criminal networks that profit at the expense of our communities and undermine public safety,” Tanner said.
Project Disconnect and Project Joker
Project Disconnect began in 2026 following a surge in vehicle theft reports originating from Oakville hotels. Since January 1, police recorded 28 thefts and attempted thefts at these locations. On May 27, investigators arrested two Brampton residents, 21-year-old Jobanpreet Singh and 26-year-old Atish Singh, during an attempted theft. Authorities seized a stolen Dodge Durango, blank keys, an onboard diagnostics reader, and break-and-enter tools.
Simultaneously, Project Joker targeted a separate ring after a Lexus SUV was stolen from the Bronte GO station parking lot in April. This investigation identified two Montreal-based suspects, 27-year-old Dany Hamel-Poirier and 20-year-old Damian Daneau, who were arrested on May 20. Surveillance indicated the pair was active in both Oakville and Mississauga.
Legal Proceedings and Next Steps
All four suspects remain in custody awaiting bail hearings in a Milton court. The individuals face a wide array of charges, including theft of a motor vehicle, possession of property obtained by crime, and possession of break-in instruments. The investigation into the Project Joker suspects is particularly extensive, with authorities indicating the duo may be responsible for more than 100 vehicle thefts throughout the GTHA.
As the legal process unfolds, investigators expect that additional charges will be filed. While only three vehicles have been recovered from the Project Joker probe so far, the evidentiary trail—including seized electronic devices and diagnostic tools—could lead to further breakthroughs in identifying the scope of these criminal networks. It remains to be seen how the court will weigh the allegations, which have not yet been proven.
Frequently Asked Questions
What triggered the Project Disconnect investigation?
The investigation began in 2026 after police received a growing number of reports regarding vehicle thefts from hotels in Oakville, totaling 28 incidents since the start of the year.
How many vehicle thefts are the Project Joker suspects believed to be responsible for?
Investigators believe the two suspects involved in Project Joker are responsible for more than 100 vehicle thefts across the GTHA.
What kind of equipment was seized during the arrests?
During the arrest of the suspects in Project Disconnect, police seized a stolen Dodge Durango, an onboard diagnostics reader, blank keys, and various break-and-enter tools.
What measures do you believe are most effective in deterring organized auto theft rings in your local community?
