POLICE BLOTTER: Halton Police Lay Charges in Two Cases, Warn of Rising Break‑Ins Across Region

By: Muhammad Aamir, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Milton Reporter

The Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) has laid charges in two separate investigations this week while also issuing a region‑wide warning following a spike in residential break‑and‑enters. Police have additionally invited media to the launch of their annual Miracle on Main Street holiday campaign.

A 41‑year‑old man with no fixed address has been arrested following a sexual assault investigation stemming from an incident aboard a Burlington‑bound GO Train earlier this month. Police say that on November 14, 2025, at approximately 8:45 p.m., an adult female passenger was approached by a man behaving erratically as the westbound train neared Appleby GO Station. The man allegedly initiated a conversation before grabbing the woman and attempting to kiss her. She pushed him away, and he retreated to another part of the train car. The victim was not physically injured. The incident was reported to police, prompting an investigation by the HRPS Child Abuse and Sexual Assault Unit. On November 26, investigators located and arrested Bruce Pawlowsky, 41, in Whitby. He is charged with sexual assault and four counts of breach of probation and remains in custody pending a bail hearing in Milton. Anyone with information is asked to contact investigators at 905‑825‑4777 ext. 8970.

In a separate incident, a 37‑year‑old Burlington man has been charged after allegedly making threats toward City of Burlington employees. Police say a city staff member received a phone call around 1:15 p.m. on November 26 from an upset male who made threats of physical harm. Officers responded to Burlington City Hall, which was closed as a precaution while the investigation unfolded, and employees were sent home for the remainder of the day. Later that evening, at approximately 8:15 p.m., police arrested the suspect and charged him with uttering threats to cause death. He is being held pending a bail hearing in Milton. Anyone with information is asked to contact the 3 District Criminal Investigations Bureau at 905‑825‑4777 ext. 2316.

Police and the Tiger Jeet Singh Foundation are also preparing to launch the annual Miracle on Main Street campaign, which supports underserved youth across Halton during the holiday season. Media are invited to attend the official launch on Monday, December 1 at 11 a.m. at HRPS Headquarters in Oakville. The long‑running initiative collects toys, gift cards, and monetary donations for families in need, with contributions accepted at scheduled events or online at MiracleOnMain.ca.

Meanwhile, the HRPS is urging residents to remain vigilant following a noticeable increase in residential break‑and‑enters across the region. Investigators have identified two patterns: daytime incidents where suspects knock on doors to determine if anyone is home before forcing entry, and evening incidents where thieves target homes near trails or green spaces, taking advantage of early darkness. Suspects often wear masks, gloves, and dark clothing, and may use large pickup trucks or SUVs. Once inside, thieves quickly ransack bedrooms, targeting cash, jewelry, luxury goods, and government identification. Police believe organized crime groups operating across Ontario may be involved. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious activity immediately and provide security footage, vehicle descriptions, or license plate information when possible.