Man arrested after allegedly impersonating fellow inmate to walk out of Toronto detention centre
Toronto police arrested a 32-year-old after he reportedly posed as another prisoner, was fitted with an ankle monitor and left the Toronto South Detention Centre. He was found two days later.
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By Torontoer Staff
Toronto police say a 32-year-old man who allegedly posed as another inmate to secure release from the Toronto South Detention Centre has been arrested after a two-day search.
Investigators say the incident began late Monday at the facility near Horner Avenue and Kipling Avenue. The suspect, identified as Steven Alexander Guzman Marroquin, reportedly convinced staff he was the prisoner due for discharge, was fitted with an ankle monitoring device and left the detention centre just before midnight.
How police say the escape unfolded
According to police, the man assumed another inmate's identity and left under the impression he had been released. Shortly after leaving the facility, officers say the ankle monitor was removed at a nearby gas station, prompting an urgent search and a public alert.
- Late Monday: Alleged personation at Toronto South Detention Centre.
- Just before midnight: Suspect reportedly fitted with an ankle monitor and released.
- Shortly after: Device allegedly removed at a gas station, triggering a search.
- Wednesday, about 8:30 p.m.: Provincial ROPE Squad locates and arrests the suspect near Yonge Street and Eglinton Avenue East.
Investigation and arrest
The Provincial ROPE, or Repeat Offender Parole Enforcement, Squad took over the investigation. Officers located Guzman Marroquin on Wednesday evening in the Yonge and Eglinton area and arrested him without further incident.
Charges and court appearance
Police say Guzman Marroquin faces multiple charges, including escape lawful custody, personation with intent, obstructing a police officer, mischief under $5,000 and theft under $5,000. Authorities also added two counts of failing to comply with probation. He was scheduled to appear in court on Thursday.
Why authorities issued an alert
Ankle monitors are used to track individuals who have been released under conditions that require electronic supervision. Police say the device was cut or removed soon after the man left the detention centre, which elevated public-safety concerns and prompted a broader search and notification.
Police are asking anyone with additional information to contact investigators.
Toronto police
What this means for the public
Police have not reported any further incidents connected to the escape. Officers encourage members of the public to report any information that could assist the investigation, particularly details about the removal of monitoring devices or suspicious activity near the detention centre and surrounding neighbourhoods.
The case remains under investigation. Toronto police will provide additional information through their regular channels as it becomes available.
Toronto PoliceescapeToronto South Detention CentreROPE Squadpublic safety
