Male Arrested after Multiple Incidents in Ajax

A 27-year-old man has been arrested in connection with several incidents in Ajax, which appear to have targeted women. He is facing charges related to robbery and sexual assault.

On Thursday, May 29, 2025 at approximately 7:20 p.m., the female victim was in the area of Harwood Avenue and Clements Road West when she was approached by an unknown male, who touched her inappropriately. The victim reported the incident to police a few hours later.

On Friday, May 30, 2025 at approximately 3:50 p.m., another female victim was walking through the plaza at 314 Harwood Avenue South when she was approached by an unknown male.  The male attempted to take her backpack, but despite his aggressive behaviour and demands, she managed to escape and approach a nearby bystander for help. The male then fled the area on foot.

On Saturday, May 31, 2025 at approximately 11:50 a.m., another female victim was on the sidewalk near 75 Bayly Street East when an unknown male approached her and grabbed her backpack, causing her fall to the ground.  The victim screamed for help and bystanders came to her aid.

Investigators were able to connect the incidents and identify a 27-year-old male suspect. On Wednesday, June 4, 2025, the suspect was taken into custody without incident.

Police are concerned there may be other victims. A photo of the male can be viewed at  www.drps.ca.  Anyone with any information is asked to call crime stoppers or investigators.

Seth MANTIFEL, age 27 of Scugog is charged with: Robbery x2 and Sexual Assault.

He was held for a bail hearing.

Anyone with cell phone, dashcam, surveillance footage, or information about this incident is asked to contact D/Cst. Westcott West Criminal Investigative Branch at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 2528.

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 $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.