BREAK AND ENTER ARRESTS IN MOUNT FOREST

Eight Charges Laid

(WELLINGTON NORTH TWP, ON) - The Wellington County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) arrest and charge two individuals in connection with a break and enter within Mount Forest.

On October 29, 2025, at approximately 8:30 am, the Wellington County OPP were dispatched to an active break and enter which occurred at a local vacant residence on Birmingham Street West within Mount Forest.

As police arrived on scene, and as a result of the investigation, Ashley HOTCHKISS, a 33-year-old of Arthur is charged under the Criminal Code with:

• Break, enter a place - with intent to commit indictable offence
• Enter premises when entry prohibited
• Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000 - in Canada
• Fail to comply with Probation Order (two counts)

The accused was held in custody pending a bail hearing.

Additionally, Paul SMYTH, a 49-year-old of Mount Forest is charged under the Criminal Code with:

• Break, enter a place - with intent to commit indictable offence
• Possession of a schedule 1 substance - methamphetamine
• Possession of a schedule 1 substance - cocaine

The accused has since been released from police custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice - Guelph on December 5, 2025.