Episodes

  • TIPS by Peel Crime Stoppers - Epi 109 - Hidden in Plain Sight: Understanding Human Trafficking

    TIPS by Peel Crime Stoppers - Epi 109 - Hidden in Plain Sight: Understanding Human Trafficking
    Apr 19 2026
    Human trafficking often happens in ways that are hidden and misunderstood. In this episode of TIPS, host Julia Vellucci explores both labour and sex trafficking. Topics of discussion include how exploitation begins, the warning signs to watch for and how awareness can help prevent it.Julia is joined by James McLean who is the director of policy and research at the Canadian Centre to End Human Trafficking. James offers his insights on labour trafficking and who is most at risk, while Siram Tortumlu, the community engagement and advocacy officer at Aura Freedom International shares insight into sex trafficking and grooming. This episode highlights the importance of early recognition, education, and community awareness in keeping people safe.
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    53 mins
  • TIPS by Peel Crime Stoppers - Epi 108 - Spring Cleanup Safety: Fire Prevention and Emergency Readiness

    TIPS by Peel Crime Stoppers - Epi 108 - Spring Cleanup Safety: Fire Prevention and Emergency Readiness
    Apr 12 2026
    As spring arrives, many of us are opening up our homes, tackling renovations, and getting ready to spend more time outdoors, but with the change in season comes new safety risks. In this episode of TIPS, we focus on emergency preparedness and fire prevention during the busy spring months. With yard cleanups, outdoor burning and home projects on the rise, knowing how to prevent emergencies before they happen is more important than ever.Host Julia Vellucci is joined by Tim Beckett, retired fire chief for the City of Mississauga, who brings more than 37 years of experience in fire service and public safety. He shares practical advice on common seasonal risks, what homeowners often overlook, and how to stay prepared. In the final segment of this episode, we revisit a powerful conversation from Fire Prevention Week in October 2025 with Luigi Davoli, who was a senior leader with Mississauga Fire, now serving as a board member at Peel Crime Stoppers. This past conversation offers additional insight into fire safety and prevention strategies that remain just as relevant today. Whether you’re planning spring projects or simply looking to keep your home and family safe, this episode has the tips you need to stay prepared.
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    54 mins
  • TIPS by Peel Crime Stoppers - Epi 107 - A Fresh Start for Home Safety This Spring

    TIPS by Peel Crime Stoppers - Epi 107 - A Fresh Start for Home Safety This Spring
    Apr 5 2026
    As spring arrives and homeowners begin opening their windows and spending more time outdoors, this episode of TIPS focuses on crime prevention and protecting your home from opportunistic break-ins.Host Julia Vellucci is joined by Tom Reimer, president and founder of Metalex Security Products. Together, they discuss the importance of visible deterrents, overlooked areas of the home and simple, practical steps homeowners can take to reduce risk. This conversation highlights how small changes can make a big difference, especially during seasonal shifts when routines change and homes become more accessible. Prevention starts with awareness and protecting your home begins before something happens.
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    49 mins
  • TIPS by Peel Crime Stoppers - Epi 106 - Inside a Scam: Trust, Urgency, & Deception

    TIPS by Peel Crime Stoppers - Epi 106 - Inside a Scam: Trust, Urgency, & Deception
    Mar 31 2026
    This episode of TIPS is dedicated to educating Canadians about the growing threat of fraud and the tactics scammers use to target victims. Host Julia Vellucci is joined by two experts on this very topic: Jeff Horncastle, the client and communications outreach officer for the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre and Andrew Dickson, the director of financial education, research and fraud prevention at the Canadian Bankers Association. Together, they explore how fraudsters manipulate victims using trust, urgency, and emotion, why anyone can be targeted, and the psychology behind some of the most common scams affecting Canadians today. The conversation also highlights key warning signs to watch for and practical steps individuals can take to protect themselves in an increasingly digital world. Fraud is constantly evolving but awareness remains one of the most powerful tools we have to prevent it. Stay informed. Stay alert. And help stop fraud before it happens.
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    53 mins
  • TIPS by Peel Crime Stoppers - Epi 105 - Youth Scams and Sextortion: Protecting Young People Online

    TIPS by Peel Crime Stoppers - Epi 105 - Youth Scams and Sextortion: Protecting Young People Online
    Mar 15 2026
    March is Fraud and Scam Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about the growing threat of scams and fraud in today’s digital world. As technology continues to evolve, scammers are finding new ways to target people online and increasingly, young people are becoming a focus. In this episode of TIPS, host Julia Vellucci is joined by Matthew Johnson, Director of Education at MediaSmarts, to discuss youth scams, online fraud, and the importance of digital literacy.Together they explore common scams affecting young people, how fraudsters use social media and messaging platforms to build trust, and the warning signs that something may not be what it seems. The conversation also takes a closer look at sextortion, a growing form of online exploitation, and what young people and families should know about recognizing and responding to these situations. Through education and awareness, people can better understand the tactics scammers use and learn how to navigate digital spaces more safely.
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    50 mins
  • TIPS by Peel Crime Stoppers - Epi 104 - Undercover & Unstoppable: Women Redefining Power in Policing

    TIPS by Peel Crime Stoppers - Epi 104 - Undercover & Unstoppable: Women Redefining Power in Policing
    Mar 8 2026
    In this special International Women’s Day episode of TIPS, host Julia Vellucci sits down with Pamela Barnum, former undercover police officer, federal prosecutor, and trust expert. Together they explore her remarkable journey in male-dominated fields like policing and crime prevention. Pamela shares the challenges she faced, the lessons she learned, and the successes that shaped her career, offering insight into the skills, resilience, and courage required to thrive in law enforcement. From navigating high-stakes undercover operations to prosecuting cases at the federal level, she reveals how women are redefining strength, leadership, and trust in policing.This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about careers in law enforcement, aspiring female leaders, and those passionate about empowering women to step into roles traditionally dominated by men. Tune in for inspiration, advice, and a conversation that celebrates courage, representation, and the power of women making a difference.
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    50 mins
  • TIPS by Peel Crime Stoppers - Epi 103 - Self-Injury Awareness Day: Education, Empathy, & Action

    TIPS by Peel Crime Stoppers - Epi 103 - Self-Injury Awareness Day: Education, Empathy, & Action
    Mar 4 2026
    March 1 marks Self-Injury Awareness Day, a time to break stigma, encourage understanding, and remind those who may be struggling that they are not alone. In this important episode of TiPS, host Julia Vellucci speaks with Michael Braithwaite, CEO of Jack.org, and Colleen Mousseau, Clinical Director, Co-owner and CEO of AWC Grief Support. Together, they explore the realities of self-injury, why it happens, and how we can better support youth and individuals who may be struggling in silence. The conversation focuses on reducing shame, recognizing warning signs, encouraging healthy coping strategies, and strengthening community response through education and compassion. This episode acts as a reminder that prevention begins with awareness and that reaching out for help is a sign of strength.While Crime Stoppers is primarily known for anonymous reporting of criminal activity, it also plays an indirect but important role in mental health support. By connecting concerns to appropriate authorities and community resources, Crime Stoppers contributes to broader community safety initiatives that address underlying issues, including mental health crises. If you or someone you know needs support, consider connecting with a trusted adult, a mental health professional, or a local crisis resource in your community.
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    55 mins
  • TIPS by Peel Crime Stoppers - Epi 102 - National Human Trafficking Awareness Day: Understanding the Realities

    TIPS by Peel Crime Stoppers - Epi 102 - National Human Trafficking Awareness Day: Understanding the Realities
    Feb 22 2026
    In this episode of TIPS, host Julia Vellucci honours National Human Trafficking Awareness Day by discussing the realities of human trafficking in Canada with two fantastic guests. She speaks with the executive director of the Canadian Centre to End Human Trafficking, Julia Drydyk and the Interim Manager of the Anti-Human Trafficking Program at Covenant House, Rachel George.Together, they discuss common misconceptions, who is most vulnerable, and the warning signs communities should be aware of. This conversation also highlights available supports and the importance of coordinated, trauma-informed responses. This episode focuses on awareness, prevention, and the role communities play in protecting vulnerable individuals.
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    55 mins