On May 18, 2022, at approximately 9:35am an officer with the Niagara Regional Police Service (NRPS) Traffic Enforcement Unit was on patrol in the area of Queenston Street and Frank Street in St. Catharines.
The officer noticed an un-plated motorcycle traveling west on Queenston Street. The officer initiated a traffic stop using their emergency lights and horn. The driver of the motorcycle pulled over for a moment then fled the area at high rate of speed. The officer did not pursue the motorcycle but instead located surveillance photos from a nearby business. The suspect photos led to a public appeal to assist in the suspect identification from the NRPS.
Detectives from the 1 District St. Catharines Street Crime Unit were assigned to the investigation. As a result of the subsequent investigation a suspect was identified and that the motorcycle was believed to be stolen.
At approximately 3:40pm, the suspect was located in the area of Wills Street and Queenston Street in St. Catharines. The suspect fled into his residence and refused to exit. The residence was contained, and detectives obtained an entry arrest warrant. The suspect was arrested at approximately 9:10pm hiding in the attic.
The suspect was also previously wanted for failing to appear for court.
Officers remain on scene pending the execution of criminal code search warrant on May 19, 2022, for further evidence. The motorcycle involved was observed in the backyard of the house.
Paul Hrebeniuk (41 years old) of St. Catharines has been arrested and charged with the following criminal offence:
Flight From Peace Officer, Sec. 320.17 CC
Hrebeniuk was held in custody for a video bail hearing on May 19, 2022, at the Robert S. K. Welch Courthouse in St. Catharines.
The investigation remains ongoing and further charges are anticipated.
Anyone with information is asked to contact detectives at 905-688-4111, extension 1024233.
Members of the public who wish to provide information anonymously can contact Crime Stoppers of Niagara online or by calling 1-800-222-8477. Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards to persons who contact the program with information which leads to an arrest.
Click Here For Crime Stoppers Online
22-52109