Whitby Mayor Elizabeth Roy's Statement Following the Release of a High-Risk Offender in Durham Region

I understand that the release of Keith Theodore Constantin is deeply concerning for Durham residents, particularly parents and caregivers. I share those concerns.

The offender is being released because he has completed the sentence imposed by the court. This is not bail or an unescorted temporary absence.

Municipal councils and local police services do not have the authority to change a sentence or extend it once it has been served.

Criminal sentencing is a federal government issue, while courts are both federal and provincial. I will be meeting with our local MPs and MPP to share the concerns our community has raised.

I am in regular contact with Durham Regional Police Service about local safety issues, and I have full confidence in their ability to monitor this offender and enforce the court-ordered conditions.

I want to thank DRPS for issuing this community safety alert and the Offender Management Unit for its ongoing work to monitor the location and activities of high-risk offenders.

As chair of the Region of Durham’s Health and Social Services Committee, I will be bringing forward a motion requesting a comprehensive review of the services provided by Durham organizations that house high-risk offenders following their release.

We need to ensure these organizations have the qualifications, expertise, staffing, and supports necessary to manage these complex situations and protect the broader community.

I urge Durham residents to remain vigilant, be aware of their surroundings and follow the guidance in the DRPS alert.

Anyone with information about Constantin is asked to contact the DRPS Offender Management Unit at 1-888-579-1520 ext. 5357.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Office of the Mayor

Jillian Follert
Public Affairs Coordinator, Office of the Mayor
Phone: 289.314.9101
Email: follertj@whitby.ca