Male Arrested After Making Threats with A Firearm

A 35-year-old male has been arrested after pointing a firearm in Whitby.

On Thursday, November 14, 2024, at approximately 7:30 p.m., the suspect and the victim, who are known to each other, were near a residence near Byron Street South and Victoria Street East. The suspect asked the victim for a cigarette but then, without being provoked, pointed a firearm at the victim's chest and threatened to kill him. Fearing for his safety, the victim handed over a pack of cigarettes. The suspect fled the scene before police arrived.

Further investigation revealed the suspect was in the custodial care of Ontario Shores.  Investigators also located the firearm, which the suspect hid on Ontario Shores property.

Once recovered, the weapon was determined to be a replica firearm.   

On Friday, December 6, 2024 the suspect was arrested at Ontario Shores on a Judge’s Order.

Michael PHILLIP, age 35, of Whitby, is charged with multiple offences including: Utter Threats to Cause Death or Bodily Harm; Point Firearm; Possess Firearm while Prohibited x2 and Disobey Lawful Court Order.

He was held for a bail hearing.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact D/Cst. Marchand of Central West Criminal Investigations Bureau at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 1829.

Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca and tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward.

The information in this media release contains facts and circumstances that have been obtained from a police investigation.  These allegations have yet to be proven in court. 

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