A Dodge Durango SRT with a flat tire caught the attention of a South Simcoe Police officer at a Highway 400 rest stop in Innisfil.
Police say the vehicle was in the parking lot around 10:30 Tuesday morning, and an officer noted its heavily tinted licence plate cover, and signs the vehicle identification number - or VIN - may have been altered.
Investigators determined the VIN belonged to a salvage vehicle in Michigan, and the 2024 Durango was reported stolen in Toronto in April.
As officers looked into the matter, a Ford Explorer ST arrived and parked beside the Durango.
Police say one occupant approached the stolen SUV before the Explorer left the area.
Officers located the Explorer near Highway 89 and Sideroad 5. The vehicle sped off when police attempted to pull it over, but officers called off the chase due to public safety concerns.
The Ontario Provincial Police later intercepted the vehicle on Highway 400 southbound, but police say it again failed to stop and fled.
Police confirmed the Explorer was also reported stolen, and that part of the investigation remains ongoing.
At the rest stop, police say they arrested a 29-year-old Brampton man.
The Durango was searched, and so was the suspect's personal property.
Police say they seized:
- A stolen Ontario licence plate
- A prohibited switchblade knife
- Oleoresin capsicum spray
- Break and enter tools
- Liquor believed to have been stolen from an LCBO
- An automobile master key
- Blank vehicle fobs
- Additional evidence associated with vehicle theft and VIN altercation
The suspect was charged with the following:
- Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000
- Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000
- Possession of an automobile master key
- Possession of break-in instruments
- Two counts of unauthorized possession of a weapon
- Altering, removing or obliterating a vehicle identification number
- Two counts of failing to comply with a release order
- Three counts of breach of recognizance
- Six counts of breach of probation
The accused was held in custody pending a bail hearing.
