Project 8 Mile in York Region: 6 people charged

by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Six individuals are facing a combined total of 39 charges following a months-long investigation into a drug trafficking ring operating in and around York Region. The investigation, known as Project 8 Mile, began in the fall of 2025 with reports concerning two men allegedly involved in trafficking controlled substances.

Investigation and Arrests

As the investigation progressed, police identified additional suspects believed to be distributing drugs in Georgina, Ontario, and neighboring communities. Search warrants were executed at residences in Georgina, Toronto, and Vaughan on February 25th and 26th, 2026, resulting in the arrest of six suspects.

Those charged include Jesse Miller, 38; Sean Pain, 38; Gary Macdonald, 43; Usama Hamid, 31; Timothy Persaud, 40; and Kyle York, 31. The charges vary among the individuals, but include offenses such as fraud, identity theft, and trafficking a controlled substance. Timothy Persaud also faces a charge related to breach of probation.

Did You Know? The investigation, Project 8 Mile, began in the fall of 2025 after initial reports of two men trafficking controlled substances.

Seized Evidence

During the searches, investigators seized a firearm, a crossbow, brass knuckles, and various ammunition. More than $58,000 in cash was also recovered, along with drugs including cocaine, hydromorph-contin, methamphetamine, oxycocet, and MDMA, with an estimated street value of $325,000.

Expert Insight: Investigations targeting drug trafficking networks often involve a complex web of individuals and offenses beyond simple drug possession. The inclusion of charges like fraud and identity theft suggests a potentially sophisticated operation aimed at concealing illicit funds or facilitating further criminal activity.

York Regional Police are requesting that anyone with information related to this case contact them directly or submit an anonymous tip to Crime Stoppers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What prompted the investigation?

The investigation, Project 8 Mile, was launched in the fall of 2025 following reports that two men were involved in trafficking controlled substances in York Region and surrounding areas.

Where were the arrests made?

Arrests were made after search warrants were executed at residences in Georgina, Toronto, and Vaughan on February 25th and 26th, 2026.

What types of drugs were seized?

Investigators seized cocaine, hydromorph-contin, methamphetamine, oxycocet, and MDMA, with an estimated street value of $325,000.

What impact could a case like this have on community safety?

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