Project Atlantis II lead to 490 arrests, 808 charges in Oshawa

The six month project conducted by Durham Regional Police aimed to address safety concerns about crime in downtown Oshawa

Published Oct 16, 2026  •  Last updated 13 minutes ago  •  2 minute read

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Durham cops say Project Atlantis II has led to 490 arrests, 809 charges, significant drug seizures, and increased police visibility in downtown Oshawa.

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Between April and September 2026, officers worked alongside community partners to address public safety concerns through targeted enforcement, intelligence-led investigations, and engaging with residents, businesses and community organizations.

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A key focus of Project Atlantis II has been disrupting thefts and the possession of property obtained by crime as well as the sale and distribution of illicit drugs that contribute to addiction, violence, victimization and community disorder.

Throughout the initiative, officers completed 2,120 hours of bicycle patrol, 180 hours of foot patrol and 96 hours of UTV patrol.

These highly visible patrols enhanced police presence in the downtown core, waterfronts, trails and parks.

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Hundreds of arrests over six months

Between April and September, officers made 490 arrests, laid 808 charges, issued 406 provincial offence notices, responded to 436 calls for service and conducted 307 business and community engagement visits.

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“Project Atlantis II demonstrates what proactive, community-focused policing looks like,” Chief Peter Moreira said in a statement released Friday.

“By increasing our visibility, targeting the criminal activity that contributes to disorder and victimization, and working closely with our partners, we are responding directly to the concerns we hear from residents and businesses,” he said. “The results are significant, but this work is about more than arrests and charges. It is about building relationships, strengthening trust and helping people feel safe in their community.”

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Oshawa Mayor Dan Carter said: “I want to thank Durham Regional Police Service, City of Oshawa municipal by-law enforcement, corporate security and staff for their continued efforts to support a safe and welcome downtown.”

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“Project Atlantis II highlights the important work taking place on the front lines, but enforcement alone cannot address the complex challenges we are seeing in our community,” he said. “Mental health, addictions, and homelessness continue to place vulnerable individuals at greater risk and have real impacts on community safety.”

“As Mayor, I have been meeting and working collaboratively with all levels of government to advance stronger investments in treatment, housing, and support services, as well as greater accountability and stronger legislative tools,” Carter added.

Anyone with information related to Project Atlantis II is asked to call police at 1-888-579-1520, ext. 1708, or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

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