Two men from Toronto are now facing a total of 18 charges after an investigation into stolen vehicles in Whitby.
Officers from the Central West Division of Durham Regional Police began a crime reduction effort focused on vehicle thefts in the Williamsburg area of Whitby early on October 27.
As part of this initiative, investigators spotted two stolen vehicles leaving the area. The cars were traced to Ajax, where officers successfully boxed them in; however, the suspects ran away on foot. Both were apprehended shortly after a brief chase, with help from Police Service Dog Rocky who caught one of them.
The suspects, Jaylen Lake, 24, and Genura Yapa, 23 – both hailing from Toronto – face multiple charges including two counts of motor vehicle theft, possession of property obtained by crime (over $5,000), dangerous operation, possession of break-in tools and possession of an electronic device for vehicle theft.
Lake has also been charged with driving while suspended while Yapa faces four counts for failing to comply with release orders and another count for not following a probation order.
The charges against Yapa are linked to a prior vehicle theft case.
The two men remain in custody awaiting bail.
If anyone has cellphone footage, dashcam recordings or any information regarding this incident, they’re encouraged to reach out to the Auto Robbery Crime Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5355.
Lately, there’s been an increase in car thefts across Durham Region. This includes a violent carjacking that occurred Thursday in rural Clarington where a 66-year-old man sustained minor injuries and lost his 2026 Nissan Rogue.
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