Toronto cops say watch out for pickpockets during Pride festivities
· Toronto Sun
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With Pride weekend upon us, including Sunday’s parade in Toronto, and Canada Day celebrations next Wednesday, cops are warning about pickpockets and other dangers associated with big events.
“Please keep an eye on your belongings,” Toronto Police Insp. Tricia Johnston said at a news conference Friday. “Pickpocketing, especially cellphone 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 cautioned. “Please keep your valuables safe in your front pocket or zippered pouch. Only bring valuables that you need to the events.“
“Look after your friends. And please plan a safe way home,” she added.
Johnston said at last year’s Pride there were 102 occurrences of cellphone thefts and pickpocketers.
However, she said there will be a large police presence along the Pride Parade route on Sunday.
Large crowds expected for Canada Day fireworks
Meanwhile, Toronto Police Supt. Dave Correa said Canada Day is “one of the busiest days of the year along Toronto’s waterfront.”
“We expect large crowds throughout the day and evening, particularly for the city of Toronto’s fireworks display at Ashbridge’s Bay,” he explained.
Correa said there will be “a significant police presence in the area including officers on foot, bicycles, ATVs, and horseback.”
“Bylaw officers will also be on site throughout the day and evening. Our focus will be public safety. We will be monitoring crowd dynamics, their activities, keeping emergency routes clear and responding to any issues that may arise. Unsafe or unlawful behaviour will not be tolerated.”
He also said after a few years of a downward trend, there was a spike in crime and disorder at the recent Victoria Day celebrations “with numerous arrests, I think we had six or seven arrests.”
To that end he said: “We’re also reminding people that personal fireworks are not permitted on beaches or in the park. Alcohol is prohibited on the beaches and bonfires are (allowed) with a city permit only. Please be advised that drones are no longer to be used on the beach as well.”
”Our message is simple. Enjoy the holiday. Respect the community. Follow the rules and look out for one another,” Correa said.
Police are also asking the public to use public transit where possible due to anticipated traffic congestion and road restrictions in the area.