Project Venture Results in 10 Arrests and 12 Firearms Seized
Project Venture Results in 10 Arrests and 12 Firearms Seized
Ten people have been arrested, 112 criminal charges have been laid and 12 firearms were seized as a result of Project Venture. Two suspects remain outstanding.
In November 2024, the Durham Region Police Service Drug Enforcement Unit (DEU) began a drug and firearm investigation. On Friday, May 2, 2025, members of the DRPS, with the assistance of the Toronto Police Service, Ontario Provincial Police, York Regional Police, Peterborough Police, Peel Police Service, Waterloo Regional Police and CISO, concluded the investigation with the execution of 16 Controlled Drugs and Substances Act and Criminal Code search warrants at residences throughout Durham Region, Toronto, and Waterloo Region.
Investigators seized several items, including 12 firearms, more than three kilograms of cocaine, a large quantity of other narcotics and more than $100,000 in cash. Several individuals at these residences were also arrested and charged. A 2024 Volkswagen Atlas was also seized as property related to the offence. The seized drugs have a street value of more than 300,000.
Two suspects remain outstanding and warrants have been issued for their arrest. Investigators have been in contact with one male however are appealing to the public to locate a second suspect.
Dexter TAYLOR-BAILEY, age 33 of Mississauga is wanted for: Possess Restricted Firearm Knowingly not Holding a Licence, Possess Loaded Restricted Firearm, Possess Proceeds Obtained by Crime Over $5000 x2, Possess other Schedule I Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking x2, Possession Cocaine for the Purpose of Trafficking and Possess Schedule IV substance for the Purpose of Trafficking.
To view a full list of accused and their charges click here
The successful completion of this investigation was made possible through funding provided by the Ontario Government, Ministry of the Solicitor General in which Criminal Intelligence Service Ontario supported this investigation.
Anyone who knows the location of TAYLOR-BAILEY or has any information about this or similar incidents is asked to contact the Drug Enforcement Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5800.
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.