Male in Custody After Striking Police Cruiser with Stolen Vehicle

A male is in custody after he struck a police cruiser in a stolen vehicle and fled from police on foot in Ajax.

On Thursday, February 22, 2024, at approximately 12:10 p.m., a member of West Division was conducting proactive patrol in the area of Bayly Street and Kitney Road, in Ajax, when his police cruiser automated licence plate reader (ALPR) alerted him to a stolen vehicle driving ahead of him.  Multiple police units attended the area and attempted to block the stolen vehicle.  The vehicle failed to stop for police and struck a cruiser when attempting to flee.  The vehicle was located abandoned a short distance away.

Officers searched the area and located the suspect driver, who attempted to flee on foot through a residential area.  He was taken into custody a short distance away without incident.

Matthew CASSIDY, age 35 from Whitby is charged with numerous offences including: Dangerous Operation, Flight from Police, Possess Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000, Possess Schedule I Substance, Operate a Conveyance While Prohibited, and Fail to Comply with Probation Order x2.

He was held for a bail hearing.

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact Cst. Coutu or Cst. Westcott of West Division at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 2132 or 2295.

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. 

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