Four Charged After Firearm and Drugs Seized During Break-and-Enter Call in Whitby

Four people were charged after Durham Regional Police seized a loaded firearm, drugs, and cash during a break-and-enter call in Whitby on Sunday, August 17, 2025. Police reported that officers responded at approximately 12:20 a.m. to the area of Taunton Road West and Cochrane Street, where they found a vehicle with several occupants. Officers said they observed open alcohol inside the vehicle before conducting a search.

According to police, the search led to the discovery of a loaded firearm in the waistband of one of the occupants, as well as drugs, drug paraphernalia, and cash. The four individuals were arrested at the scene without incident, and no physical injuries were reported, police stated.

Police identified Brock Osiris Tate, 33, of Pickering, as facing charges including possession of a restricted firearm without a licence, possession of a loaded restricted or prohibited firearm, occupying a motor vehicle with a firearm, possession of methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking, and possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking. Police said Tate was held for a bail hearing.

Krista Sayer, 38, of no fixed address, was charged with possession of methamphetamine and cocaine for the purpose of trafficking and having care and control of a motor vehicle with an open container of liquor.

Shaun Michael Gelsinger, 37, of Whitby, and Leah Julia Hopping, 28, of Whitby, each faced charges of possession of methamphetamine and cocaine for the purpose of trafficking. According to police, Sayer, Gelsinger, and Hopping were released on an undertaking. The investigation was conducted by Durham Regional Police Central West Division. Police noted that these allegations have not been proven in court.