In this edition of Crime Report, a burglary at a Toronto jewellery store highlights the continued importance of robust after-hours security and minimizing inventory left unsecured overnight.

A jewellery business located in a commercial strip plaza near Finch Avenue West and Dufferin Street in Toronto was broken into at approximately 2 a.m. on July 1, 2026.

According to the report, three individuals forced entry into the store and attempted to open the business’s safes but were unsuccessful. The suspects stole a reportedly low-value quantity of jewellery that had been left outside the safes and caused damage to equipment during the forced entry. The store’s alarm system activated, and Toronto Police responded. No further information has been released.

Summer months

Industry reports indicate that break-ins typically increase during the summer months, particularly over long weekends. While at least one burglary gang is believed to be operating in southern Ontario, incidents over the past year or two suggest many offenders lack sophisticated burglary techniques. Most recent cases have resulted in the theft of jewellery left outside secured safes, along with damage to doors, showcases, and other property.

Although there have been occasional reports of lightweight safes being removed from stores, there have been no recent successful attempts to breach properly rated anti-burglary safes on site. Security experts caution, however, that criminal tactics can evolve quickly, making preventative measures essential.

CJB’s recommendations

• Leave the lowest possible value of jewellery outside safes when the business is closed—ideally, none. There is no amount of jewellery considered “low value” enough to guarantee that criminals will not attempt a break-in.
• Store jewellery in ULC-rated anti-burglary safes. If you are uncertain which safe is appropriate for your business, consult your insurance broker.
• Install a ULC-certified alarm system meeting Extent 3 Line Level A3 with two signal paths, and ensure safes are protected to the ULC “complete” standard.
• Install an internet-connected camera system with audio capability that allows staff to remotely monitor the interior of the store whenever it is closed or unattended.

Information brought to you by CJB Insurance Services Inc.