Male Arrested After Interaction with Youth in Public Washroom

A 63-year-old male has been arrested after approaching three youth in a public washroom in Whitby and inviting them to his vehicle. Police are concerned there may be more victims.  

On Wednesday, July 9, 2025, members of Central West Division responded to Heydenshore Kiwanis Park after three youth had a suspicious interaction with a male in a public washroom. The youth were approached by the suspect who invited them to his vehicle.

The youth reported the incident to their parents who then called police. The suspect fled in his vehicle prior to police arrival and was located a short distance away where he was taken into custody.

Investigators believe there may be more victims and are urging anyone who had an interaction with the suspect to come forward.

Bernard DEERY, age 63, of Whitby, is charged with: Abduct Person Under Fourteen Years x3 and Obstruct/Resist a Peace Officer.

He was held for a bail hearing.  

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact D/Cst. Keegan of Central West Criminal Investigations Branch at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 1877.

Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 and tipsters may be eligible for a $2,000 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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