VIDEO: Surveillance captures Oakville vehicle theft tied to organized crime probe

A Quebec man already wanted by multiple police services and facing approximately 40 criminal charges has been arrested as part of a Halton Regional Police investigation into an organized auto theft network believed responsible for more than 100 vehicle thefts across the Greater Toronto and Hamilton Area.

Halton police announced the results of Project Joker, an investigation launched in April after a Lexus SUV was stolen from the Bronte GO Station parking lot in Oakville.

Investigators identified two suspects believed to be members of an organized crime group operating out of Quebec and conducted surveillance after linking them to a rental vehicle. Police allege the suspects were observed stealing and attempting to steal vehicles in Oakville and Mississauga before being arrested on May 22.

Among those arrested was 27-year-old Dany Hamel-Poirier of Montreal.

Police say Hamel-Poirier was wanted by multiple police services in Ontario and Quebec, including Peel Regional Police, Toronto Police Service, York Regional Police and the Sûreté du Québec. At the time of his arrest, he was facing approximately 40 criminal charges, including several related to auto theft.

Investigators also allege Hamel-Poirier was on probation for previous auto theft convictions and subject to multiple release orders in Quebec connected to auto theft-related charges.

He has been charged by Halton police with three counts of theft of a motor vehicle, possession of break-and-enter instruments, possession of property obtained by crime, failing to comply with a probation order and disguise with intent.

A second Montreal man, 20-year-old Damian Daneau, faces multiple charges including theft of a motor vehicle, possession of break-and-enter instruments, possession of property obtained by crime and failing to comply with an undertaking.

Police recovered three stolen vehicles during the investigation and say additional charges are expected.

Investigators believe the pair may be responsible for more than 100 vehicle thefts throughout the GTHA.

“The fact that these individuals are allegedly linked to more than 100 vehicle thefts, while already facing numerous criminal charges and subject to release orders, should be concerning to everyone,” Halton Police Chief Stephen Tanner said in a statement.

“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.”

Both accused were held in custody pending bail hearings in Milton.

AUTO THEFT INVESTIGATION
Captured on video: suspects stealing a vehicle in broad daylight in seconds & attempting to disable tracking technology on a stolen truck.
Two HRPS investigations resulted in 4 arrests, dozens of charges, and the disruption of organized auto theft… pic.twitter.com/eavXe1duax

— Halton Police (@HaltonPolice) June 4, 2026