NEWS
PEEL REGIONAL POLICE
LEADS JOINT FORCE OPERATION - PROJECT OUTSOURCE
IN ARRESTS & SEIZURES OF TOW TRUCKS, CASH, FIREARMS & OTHER ASSETS CONCERNING EXTENSIVE INSURANCE FRAUD IN ONTARIO TOWING INDUSTRY
Posted On Monday June 16, 2025
Note: Attached is a full list of arrests and charges.
Region of Peel – Peel Regional Police, as part of a Joint Force Operation with local and provincial law enforcement partners, have recovered more than $4.2 million in assets following the dismantling of an organized criminal network linked to the towing industry.
In July 2024, Project Outsource was launched to investigate a criminal organization believed to be behind a significant number of extortion incidents and related acts of violence. As the investigation progressed, it became clear that the criminal network operated with two distinct, but interconnected components: one dedicated to extortion and violence, and the other rooted in the towing industry.
Several suspects were found to be associated with towing companies operating under the names Certified Roadside and Humble Roadside. Investigators uncovered evidence that these individuals were engaged in insurance fraud by staging vehicle collisions, and using threats, assaults, and firearms to exert control over local towing operations.
As of June 10, 2025, Haleh Javady Torabi, a 37-year-old woman from King City, and the following 17 men from Brampton have been arrested and charged in connection with the investigation:
Inderjit Dhami, 38
Paritosh Chopra, 32
Gurbinder Singh, 28
Kulwinder Puri, 25
Parminder Puri, 31
Inderjit Bal, 29
Varun Aul, 31
Ketan Chopra, 30
Norman Tazehkand, 32
Pawandeep Singh, 25
Dipanshu Garg, 24
Rahul Verma, 27
Karan Boparai, 26
Mankirat Boparai, 22
Simar Boparai, 21
Jovan Singh, 23
Abhinav Bhardwaj, 25
The accused face a total of 97 criminal charges related to criminal organization, extortion, fraud, firearms, and more.
Three individuals were charged and released to attend court at a later date, while 15 were held for a bail hearing at the Ontario Court of Justice in Brampton. Of the 18, almost half were on a form of judicial release at the time of arrest.
Over the course of the investigation, the following assets were seized:
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18 tow trucks, with a total value $2.8M
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Four personal vehicles, with a total value of $840K
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Five stolen vehicles recovered, with a total value $571K
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Six firearms
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586 rounds of ammunition
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Two bulletproof vests
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Various weapons, including cross bow, taser, baseball bats
Project Outsource was a Joint Forces Operation with Peel Regional Police, Ontario Provincial Police, Halton Regional Police, York Regional Police, and Toronto Police Service. The successful completion of this investigation was made possible through funding from the Government of Ontario, Ministry of the Solicitor General, in which the Criminal Intelligence Service Ontario supported this Joint Forces investigation.
In recent years, Peel Region has experienced a sharp rise in violent extortion attempts targeting South Asian business owners, including demands for large sums of money, threats for non-payment, and acts of violence, including drive-by shootings. In response to these incidents, Peel Regional Police established the Extortion Investigation Task Force in December 2023.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation or has been a victim of similar acts of extortion is asked to contact Peel Regional Police at (905) 453-3131. Information may also be left anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or visiting www.peelcrimestoppers.ca.
QUICK FACTS
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18 arrests with a total of 97 criminal charges
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Of the 18, almost half were on a form of judicial release at the time of arrest
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Six firearms seized, along with 586 rounds of ammunition
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More than $4.2M in assets seized
QUOTES
“This investigation has delivered a significant blow to a well-organized criminal network that has been spreading fear and violence in our communities. These individuals and their actions have no place here, and they will be held fully accountable. Alarmingly, nearly half of those arrested were already on some form of judicial release at the time — once again raising serious concerns about repeat offenders and the urgent need for bail reform. I want to thank our Joint Force Operation partners and the Government of Ontario for their continued support. Together, we are building safer, stronger communities.”
- Chief Nishan Duraiappah, Peel Regional Police
“The success of Project Outsource sends a clear message: criminal organizations that use violence, fear and fraud to prey on our communities will be identified, investigated, and dismantled. Our government is proud to have supported Peel Regional Police through investments into Criminal Intelligence Service Ontario and commends all law enforcement partners involved in this operation. We will always support the brave men and women who protect Ontario and keep our communities safe by providing them with the tools and intelligence needed to hold violent offenders accountable.”
- Michael S. Kerzner, Solicitor General of Ontario
"Project Outsource is a testament to the power of police collaboration. By combining resources and intelligence across jurisdictions, we’ve been able to strategically target violent and organized crime with greater precision and impact. This joint effort sends a clear message: criminal networks have no borders, and neither does law enforcement."
- Deputy Chief Jeff Hill, Halton Regional Police Service
“The impact of this project extends far beyond the arrests. The OPP and our partners understand the complex issues associated to criminality within the towing industry, including acts of violence and harassment. The OPP-led Provincial Auto Theft and Towing Team will continue to provide support to proactive investigations aimed at reducing the violence associated to illegitimate tow trucks and their operators.”
- Deputy Commissioner Marty Kearns, Ontario Provincial Police
“Toronto Police is proud to have worked alongside our partners at the Ontario Provincial Police, Halton Regional Police Service, and York Regional Police on Project Outsource. This initiative is an example of how regardless of jurisdictional lines, police services are facing the same public safety challenges. Working together is paramount to ensuring the safety of everyone.”
- Chief Superintendent Joe Matthews, Toronto Police Service
“Whenever violence is used to silence and exploit members of the community, a strong and coordinated response is essential to protect those affected. Joint Force Operations, such as Project Outsource, are a reminder that collaborative efforts among agencies are crucial and effective in dismantling criminal organizations and restoring community safety and trust”
- Superintendent Sony Dosanjh, York Regional Police
EDMONTON POLICE
CHARGE PREDATORY TOWERS
WITH FRAUD
CLICK ON ABOVE LINK TO READ FULL PRESS RELEASE
Towing Museum Announces Hall of Fame Class of 2025
Nine individuals will be honored for their contributions
to the towing and recovery industry later this year.
The International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame and Museum
announced nine inductees into its Hall of Fame, Class of 2025,
from six states and Japan, who will be honored at a special
ceremony later this year. “This year’s exceptional class of inductees
truly embodies the diverse spectrum of leadership that has shaped
the international towing and recovery industry,” said Jeffrey Godwin,
first vice president of the towing museum. “From trailblazers and
visionaries to hands-on operators, television personalities, and
industry influencers, this group represents the very best of our field
and is highly deserving of this prestigious recognition.”
The inductees for 2025 include:
• FRANCIS GEOFFREY RUSSELL of Palm Beach Gardens, FL, has been in the towing and recovery sector for 50 years and is the co-founder of Guardian Fleet Services, the largest towing and specialized transportation company in the U.S. He had many industry mentors throughout his career and has reciprocated by becoming a mentor to friends and colleagues, including counseling and supporting fellow company owners. "Geoff has been a staunch advocate for elevating the towing industry's reputation among law enforcement, fellow first responders, and the motoring public."
• JOANNE BLYTON, Billings, MT, was launched into towing and recovery as a teen at her parents' company. Four decades later she remains active in the towing, recovery and automotive industries, receiving awards and accolades for her commitment to the industry. A long-time owner and president of Billings Towing & Recovery, Blyton also served a four year term as the first female president of the Towing & Recovery Association of America. "Joanne has given her voice, heart, time, energy and dedication to the entire towing and recovery industry."
• JOHNNY GRANT of Chattanooga, TN, passed away in 2024 and is being honored posthumously. Grant became enamored with cars and tow trucks when he began sweeping floors at a service station. He worked for wrecker manufacturer Ernest Holmes and later Miller Industries in sales and demonstrating equipment for 50 years. He also worked for local towing operators, at one point owning his own tow truck. After retirement, he still answered calls, was featured on podcasts, and even provided information for the documentary "Highway Thru Hell." "I know of no other individual within our industry possessing the breadth of knowledge that Johnny possessed in the evolution of industry products covering five decades."
• JON KUPCHIN of Stillwell, KS, where he has been actively involved in the community, sponsoring charities, supporting community events and volunteering during emergencies. In business for over 35 years, he is a believer in maintaining high standards through continuing education, training and development, state-of-the-art equipment and following towing and recovery best practices. "Jon understands that true success goes beyond business — it's about giving back and building trust with the people the company serves."
• KIKUO YAMAGUCHI of Yokohama, Kanagawa, Japan, owns and operates three respected companies in Japan and Southeast Asia, including Yamaguchi Wrecker founded in 1986 by his father. Yamaguchi joined the company after university, dedicating his career to building the business. He officially took the reins of the company at age 34. Yamaguchi was instrumental in developing towing and recovery equipment with narrow bodies on very short chassis to maneuver the streets of Asia. "I have never met another man more passionate about the towing and recovery industries."
• RALPH HANSER, Billings, MT, is the head of Hanser's Towing & Semi Truck Heavy Wrecker, in business for over 50 years. He has received praise for his experience and industry know-how, and is considered an early pioneer in air-cushion recovery and mechanical technology. Hanser's may be the only company in Billings that handles hazardous oil and fuel spills. "This honor is a very well-deserved recognition that was built from one truck to what it is today Hanser's incredible hard work and commitment to doing it right."
• WELDON T. WRIGHT of Land O Lakes, FL, has been in the towing industry since 1971. He has worked for the nation's two leading towing equipment manufacturers: Jerr-Dan Corporation and Miller Industries. Wright made many product innovations, including the Jerr-Dan rotator and Poly Body technology. Wright helped push for the national Fair Tow Act in 2015 to exempt heavy-duty tow and recovery vehicles from certain highway weight limitations. "He is well respected by his peers for his knowledge and willingness to go the extra mile to solve problems. His tireless efforts have made the industry safer and more productive."
• WILLIS "HENRY" HEATH JR, Fairfax, VA, is being honored posthumously for his leadership role in towing and recovery, including as owner of Henry's Wrecker Service still in operation today and for being a co-founder and first president of the Virginia Association of Towing & Recovery Operators. Known as an innovator, Heath invented the "Henry Hitch" used on Holmes 750 wreckers as well as improved tow bars for the safe transport of buses. A volunteer firefighter, Heath helped with fire and police training and community events. "Henry's work ethic and direction supported many individuals in the surrounding community. Many of the 'old towers' around today received their start from Henry Heath."
• WILLIAM GRATZIANNA, Downers Grove, IL, helped found one the nation's most successful towing companies, O'Hare Towing, which was featured in a TV series, titled, "Wrecked: Life in the Crash Lane," emphasizing the extreme nature and physically dangerous work of towing and recovery. Through the years, he has been involved in local fire and police training as well as an annual Christmas toy drive. He is president of the Towing Museum, helping guide the organization with profitable fundraising and encouraging the public to take interest in the history of towing. "Bill has showed not only exemplary dedication to the towing industry, but also leadership and professional achievement."
The Towing Museum was founded in 1986 to recognize outstanding individuals in the towing industry and record and display the industry’s history. Learn more about the Towing Museum at towingmuseum.com.
International Towing & Recovery Hall of Fame and Museum
423-267-3132
March 26, 2025
EDMONTON POLICE SERVICE
SEIZE PREDATOR TOW TRUCKS
Today EDMONTON POLICE SERVICE initiated action against the "CHASERS" in their city. It is believed that at least 8 tow trucks associated with the unprofessional and possible criminal activities of their operations have been seized and impounded. While unknown at this time what charges and/or other action may be taken it is believed that EPS will at some point hold a Press Conference to inform the public of their investigations of these predatory operators.
March 31, 2025 - UPDATE: We have now received information that as many as 16 tow trucks have been seized and are in Police custody.
February 25, 2025
CITY OF CALGARY
BYLAW AMENDMENT TO ADDRESS PREDATORY TOWERS
On February 25, 2025, THE CITY OF CALGARY took swift and decisive action to address the plague of predatory towing operators that had infiltrated the city. The actions of the individuals and companies involved with this unprofessional and predatory behavior along with charges for services exceeding ten times the industry standard forced this unprecedented need for immediate action. Click on the link below to view the bylaw amendments and the consequences for any violation of its provisions.
June 30, 2022
ALBERTA TRANSPORTATION
APPROVES EXEMPTION TO ALLOW
BLUE LIGHTS FOR TOW TRUCKS
Effective June 30, 2022 after lobbying by The TOWING & RECOVERY ASSOCIATION OF ALBERTA, a one-year pilot commenced that allowed tow truck operators to increase their visibility and safety while working on Alberta highways. A Registrar's exemption was issued to permit the optional use of blue lights, in addition to existing amber lights on tow trucks and supporting vehicles during the pilot project. On February 28, 2023 the exemption was extended for a further five years expiring February 29, 2028. Click on the link below to view the exemption certificate and its details.
BLUE LIGHT PILOT EXEMPTION
5 YEAR BLUE LIGHT EXTENSION
