20-year-old charged after 48 vehicle break-ins in Mississauga
Peel Regional Police arrested a 20-year-old in connection with 48 vehicle break-and-enters across Mississauga. He faces multiple theft and mischief charges and was held for a bail hearing.
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By Torontoer Staff
Peel Regional Police have arrested and charged a 20-year-old man they say is responsible for 48 vehicle break-and-enters across Mississauga. Authorities say the incidents began in December and concentrated around Kimbermount Avenue, Aquitaine Avenue and Regents Terrace.
Investigators from 11 Division’s Criminal Investigation Bureau, with support from the BEAR Unit and uniform officers, conducted an extensive probe that ended with the arrest on Jan. 26.
Investigation and arrest
Police say they received "numerous reports" of vehicle break-ins beginning in December 2025. Staff from 11 Division compiled the reports and worked with specialized units to identify a suspect and gather evidence.
On Jan. 26, Peel Regional Police arrested 20-year-old Basil Ass'ad, listed as having no fixed address. The arrest followed coordinated investigative work, according to a police news release.
"We received numerous reports of vehicle break-ins since December," Peel Regional Police said in a news release.
Peel Regional Police
Charges and court status
Ass'ad has been charged with multiple offences. None of the allegations have been tested in court. Police say he was held for a bail hearing at the Ontario Court of Justice in Brampton.
- 48 counts of mischief over $5,000
- Two counts of theft over $5,000
- Five counts of theft under $5,000
- Possession of stolen property
- Fraud under $5,000
Neighbourhood impact and safety advice
Vehicle break-ins can have a lasting effect on residents, from the loss of personal items to heightened concern about safety. Local police advise simple precautions that reduce risk and make vehicles less attractive targets.
- Lock all doors and close windows, even for short stops
- Remove valuables from plain view or take them inside
- Park in well-lit, visible areas when possible
- Use visible deterrents such as steering-wheel locks or security decals
- Consider dashcams with parking-mode motion detection
- Report suspicious activity to police promptly
These steps will not prevent every incident, but they lower the likelihood of a theft and help officers focus resources more effectively.
How to provide information
Peel Regional Police are asking anyone with additional information about the incidents to contact them. Tips from the public helped build the case, police said in their release.
Residents with footage from dashcams or doorbell cameras in the affected areas are encouraged to review their recordings and share relevant clips with investigators.
The investigation remains active as police continue to follow up on leads. Anyone with information is asked to contact Peel Regional Police.
Peel Regional PoliceMississaugaCrimeVehicle safety
