Two arrested after six-week spree of car vandalism

Investigation of vandalism in the Cabbagetown area has led to the arrest of two men who police say they witnessed damaging cars.

Officers of 51 Division reported seeing two people entering vehicles parked on Sackville Street and committing damage around 4 a.m. on Feb. 19.

The two men ran when they were approached by the officers but were apprehended after a brief chase, police said in a press release that morning.

Each of the men was allegedly carrying a knife and an ice pick-type instrument when they were arrested.

Previous police statements reported at least 45 vehicles had been vandalized in the Cabbagetown and Moss Park areas over a six-week period starting Jan. 1.

The reported damage included broken windows, cut tires and paint applied to vehicles.

Police have not established a motive for the acts of vandalism, according to media relations officer Const. Caroline de Kloet. Neither of the two arrested men were residents of Cabbagetown, she said in an email.

Estuardo Anfree Rivas, 21, faces eight charges including five counts of mischief/damage to property not exceeding $5,000, and one count each of theft under $5,000, possession of a break-and-enter Instrument, and carrying a concealed weapon.

Samson Bambino Carter, 18, faces five counts of mischief/damage to property not exceeding $5,000 and one count of carrying a concealed weapon.

They were to appear in court on Feb. 19.

The investigation is ongoing and police will lay further charges for any offences they find evidence for, de Kloet said.

Police have asked residents of the area to continue being vigilant of suspicious activity.

They are also asking them review home security systems and send any video to police that may have captured vehicles being damaged or any other suspicious activity or persons.