Hamilton police continue search for armed robbery suspects linked to dating app

Police continue to investigate a series of robberies around Hamilton Mountain late August with links to a dating app and are appealing to the public to identify additional suspects.

Hamilton Police learned that several victims were lured through the Grindr app, an adult-only dating app, only to be ambushed and extorted by the suspects who had misrepresented themselves on the platform.

The incidents occurred between Aug. 22 and Aug. 29.

Investigators have since arrested several individuals in connection with the robberies but are looking to identify additional suspects.

The first incident happened when three suspects “randomly” met a 26-year-old man on a street and forced him at gunpoint to his apartment, where they stole a gaming station.

The other incident happened that same evening in the area of Concession and East 36th streets.

Officers say a 20-year-old man was contacted through a dating app to arrange a meeting. Upon arrival, three suspects allegedly attacked him and held him at gunpoint.

Investigators say the suspects stole his phone and used it to make a financial transaction.

Police acknowledge the sensitive nature of the crimes and are appealing to the public for any help in identifying the responsible parties.

Those with information are asked to contact Det/Cst. El-Hassen at 905-546-8927.