TIPS by Peel Crime Stoppers

In this episode of TIPS, host Julia Vellucci explores community safety and crime prevention from two perspectives. Brampton’s Batman joins Julia to discuss crime prevention, community awareness and the importance of looking out for one another. Julia also speaks with Colin Patterson, Director of Traffic Management and Municipal Parking with the City of Mississauga, about back-to-school road safety, including school zones, buses, pedestrians, cyclists and distracted driving. Join us for an engaging conversation about the simple steps we can all take to help keep our communities safe.

As students across Peel Region head back to school, the roads become busier with school buses, pedestrians, cyclists, parents and young drivers. In this episode of TIPS, we take a closer look at back-to-school road safety and what everyone can do to help keep students safe.Host Julia Vellucci is joined by Police Constable Jesse Nobleman, Media Relations Officer with the OPP’s Caledon Detachment. Jesse shares his expertise on navigating school zones, school bus safety, pedestrian awareness, distracted driving, young and new drivers and the importance of slowing down and staying alert as students return to the classroom.Whether you're behind the wheel, walking to school, riding a bike, taking the bus or dropping off your children, road safety is a shared responsibility. We discuss the risks to watch for and the simple steps everyone can take to make the back-to-school transition safer for our communities.

In this episode of TIPS, host Julia Vellucci explores grief, loss and the many ways people experience and navigate major life changes. In recognition of Grief Awareness Day, Julia is joined by Registered Psychotherapist Aly Bird, who specializes in grief and trauma therapy. Julia is also joined by Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying) Annie Roper, who specializes in grief, loss and life transitions.Together, they discuss the different forms grief can take, how trauma and loss can intersect, how it affects first responders, why there is no single way to grieve, and so much more. The conversation also looks at the importance of acknowledging grief and finding support rather than facing it alone.

In this episode of TIPS, host Julia Vellucci explores international student safety, rights and access to resources as students prepare for a new school year. Julia is joined by Sweta Thakur, Advisor, Policy, Research and Evaluation with Peel Newcomer Strategy Group and Liz Estey from the Region of Peel, who has been involved with the Community Safety and Well-Being Plan and International Students Collaborative.Together, they discuss some of the challenges international students may face when navigating a new country, including housing, employment, fraud, access to services and knowing where to turn for support. They also explore the importance of education, prevention, collaboration and community connections in helping international students feel informed, supported and safe. As students prepare to return to school, this episode highlights why knowing your rights, understanding available resources and building strong community connections can be an important part of staying safe.

In this special episode of TIPS, host Julia Vellucci celebrates hitting the 50 episode milestone the same day she marks one year as host of this podcast. Julia reflects on her journey from Episode 75 to Episode 125, the growth she's experienced as a journalist, writer and broadcaster and the lessons she's learned from speaking with experts, community leaders, advocates and public safety professionals. This episode also features snippets of four of her favourite past interviews including Cal Millar, retired Toronto Star general assignment reporter and longtime Crime Stoppers advocate and the Honourable Julian Fantino, retired police executive and former federal cabinet minister. Past interviews with Emily Murray, legal director at Luke’s Place and Pamela Barnum, former undercover police officer, federal prosecutor and trust expert, are also showcased. As Julia looks back on her first year behind the microphone, she reflects on the people and conversations that have shaped her journey and looks ahead to another year of TIPS and continued community-focused conversations.

In this episode of TIPS, host Julia Vellucci explores how collaboration, education and inclusion help build safer communities. In recognition of the International Day of the World's Indigenous Peoples, Julia is joined by Rebecca Laforme, a member of the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation who works with the City of Mississauga in Heritage Planning and Indigenous Relations. Together, they discuss the importance of Indigenous perspectives in community-building, reconciliation, relationship-building with public institutions, and creating safer communities through understanding and partnership.The episode also features a conversation with Dr. Elic Chan, Research Associate and Lecturer in the Department of Sociology at the University of British Columbia, focused on international student safety as students prepare for a new school year. They discuss the challenges international students may face when navigating a new country, the importance of awareness and support systems, and how communities can help students feel safe, informed, and connected. Through two important conversations, this episode highlights the role that education, trust, and community partnerships play in creating safer spaces for everyone.

As students and families prepare for the return to school just a month away, this episode of TIPS explores the emotional and social side of back-to-school transitions. Host Julia Vellucci is joined by Rachel Ginsberg, registered social worker and psychotherapist and Heather Ferguson, registered clinical counsellor, to discuss building resilience, managing change, supporting youth, navigating bullying, and creating healthy relationships. Together, they share practical advice for students, parents, and caregivers on preparing for the school year with confidence, connection, and emotional well-being in mind.Any claims/complaints arising from the information provided in the show/podcast are subject to the laws of Canada and need to be made within Canadian jurisdiction.

In this episode of TIPS, host Julia Vellucci is joined by Ingrid Berkeley, former Deputy Chief of Peel Regional Police and the highest-ranking Black female police officer in Canada at the time of her retirement. Drawing on her remarkable 34-year policing career, Ingrid reflects on the evolution of policing, the importance of community trust, diversity and inclusion in leadership, crime prevention through education and partnerships and the lasting impact of public service.Together, they discuss breaking barriers, mentoring future generations, strengthening relationships between police and the communities they serve, and why leadership extends far beyond a uniform. Ingrid also shares her thoughts on the future of policing, supporting youth, and the legacy she hopes to leave behind. This episode highlights how safer communities are built not only through enforcement, but through trust, collaboration, representation, and a lifelong commitment to serving others.

In this episode of TIPS by Peel Crime Stoppers, host Julia Vellucci explores the growing issue of auto theft in Canada and the role awareness plays in preventing it. Julia is joined by Lorraine Sommerfeld, award-winning automotive journalist and consumer advocate, who has been writing for Driving.ca since 2014. Together they discuss how vehicle theft has evolved, why organized crime continues to target vehicles, common misconceptions about auto theft and practical steps drivers can take to better protect themselves and their vehicles.The episode also features a special throwback interview from episode nine of TIPS by Peel Crime Stoppers, where former host Brandan Lang speaks with Bryan Gast, National Vice President of Investigative Services at Équité Association. Together they explore the broader landscape of organized auto theft and why education, prevention, and community involvement remain essential in keeping Canadian communities safe. Whether you're a new driver or have been behind the wheel for decades, this episode offers valuable insights into one of Canada's most significant public safety challenges and the steps we can all take to help prevent vehicle theft.

In this episode of TIPS, host Julia Vellucci explores auto theft, one of Canada's fastest-growing public safety concerns in honour of Vehicle Theft Prevention Month. Julia is joined by Elliott Silverstein, Director of Government Relations for CAA, to discuss current vehicle theft trends, why organized auto theft continues to rise and the practical steps drivers can take to better protect their vehicles. She is also joined by Stephan Bordun and Achoy Ladrick, co-owners of Bollard Boys GTA, who explain how physical security measures, including residential security bollards, can help deter vehicle theft and strengthen home security. Together, these conversations highlight the importance of awareness, prevention, and community action in reducing vehicle theft and helping keep our neighbourhoods safer.

In this special Canada Day episode of TIPS, host Julia Vellucci speaks with Peel Crime Stoppers Chair Imran Hasan about his appointment as Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel of 21 Electronic Warfare Regiment. They discuss leadership, community service, the importance of building safer communities and Imran's journey from immigrant to business leader and public safety advocate. The episode also features a special replay of when Julia first spoke to Imran in the first episode she did as host, giving newer listeners the chance to hear the conversation as Julia approaches her one-year anniversary as host.

As Elder Abuse Awareness Month comes to a close, this episode of TIPS brings together legal and community perspectives on protecting older adults and supporting families through complex life transitions. Host Julia Vellucci is joined by Deonah Francis, a social worker with Mississauga Community Legal Services, and Sabrina Parboodial, an associate at Gold Family Law. Together, they discuss elder abuse awareness, seniors' rights, family dynamics, caregiving challenges, financial exploitation, decision-making, and the legal and social support available when concerns arise. This conversation explores the importance of recognizing warning signs, preserving dignity and autonomy, and ensuring older adults remain informed and involved in decisions that affect their lives.

As June marks Elder Abuse Awareness Month, this episode of TIPS explores the legal, ethical, and practical issues that can impact older adults and their families. Host Julia Vellucci is joined by Melissa Miller, partner at Howie, Sacks & Henry LLP, for a conversation about elder abuse, seniors' rights, long-term care, financial exploitation, and family decision-making. Together, they discuss warning signs of neglect and mistreatment, the challenges families face during transitions into care, powers of attorney, scams targeting seniors, and what steps can be taken when concerns arise.This episode focuses on awareness, prevention, and protecting the dignity, independence, and safety of older adults through education and informed decision-making. At the end of this episode, we look back on a past interview from episode 91 with Samra Zafar, a human rights advocate, bestselling author and survivor of gender-based violence, shining more light onto isolation and other warning signs when it comes to any kind of abuse, neglect or violence.

In this episode of TIPS, host Julia Vellucci explores the often hidden and misunderstood realities of elder abuse in Canada. Julia is joined by Bénédicte Schoepflin, executive director of the Canadian Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse, for a conversation focused on awareness, prevention, and education. Together, they discuss the different forms elder abuse can take including financial exploitation, emotional abuse, neglect, and the loss of autonomy, along with why these situations are often underreported or overlooked. With June 15th marking World Elder Abuse Awareness Day, this conversation highlights the importance of recognizing warning signs early and strengthening community responsibility in protecting seniors.

June is Elder Abuse Awareness Month, so in this episode of TIPS, host Julia Vellucci explores the often-overlooked realities of elder abuse, senior safety, and the importance of protecting the rights and dignity of older adults. Julia is joined by Amy Friesen founder of Tea & Toast, best-selling author, educator, speaker, and one of Canada's leading experts in helping seniors and families navigate the complexities of eldercare and senior living. Together they examine issues such as isolation, loss of autonomy, caregiver burnout, family conflict, vulnerable life transitions, and the challenges seniors can face when major decisions are made on their behalf. This conversation focuses on awareness, prevention, and empowering seniors and families with the knowledge needed to recognize warning signs, navigate difficult transitions, and ensure older adults remain active participants in decisions about their future.

Mental health struggles and unmanaged stress can quietly build over time, sometimes escalating into crisis before the warning signs are recognized. In this episode of TIPS, host Julia Vellucci concludes this mini mental health series for May by exploring mental wellness as a form of prevention through practical conversations focused on awareness, coping, and early intervention.Julia speaks with registered psychotherapist Joanna Meister about grounding techniques, stress management, and healthy coping strategies, while therapist Ashley Bagg discusses recognizing warning signs in yourself or others, when a mental health struggle may be becoming a crisis, and how bystanders can safely respond. This episode focuses on practical tools, awareness, and the importance of supporting mental health before situations escalate.

Mental health struggles and addiction can affect anyone, even those working in careers built around protecting others. In this episode of TIPS, host Julia Vellucci chats with Leo Petrilli for the second time on this podcast. They share a deeply personal and honest conversation about addiction, recovery, mental health, and life in law enforcement.After spending 36 years in law enforcement while privately battling addiction for over four decades, Leo shares how he tried to hide behind what he calls “booze and a badge.” Since becoming substance-free in 2011, he has dedicated his life to helping others through addiction recovery, peer support, and advocacy. Together, Julia and Leo discuss his journey and internal battles, the stigma surrounding mental health and addiction, the emotional toll high-pressure careers can have on individuals, and why open conversations and support systems are so important. This episode focuses on awareness, recovery, resilience and the importance of reaching out before struggles escalate into crisis.

Mental health and the justice system often intersect in complicated and deeply human ways but where is the line between getting help and being criminalized?This episode of TIPS explores just that as host Julia Vellucci continues the growing conversation around mental health, public safety, and the criminal justice system in this mental health mini series for May. Julia is joined by criminal defence lawyers Cassandra Richards and Tonya Kent, who bring first-hand insight from years of representing youth and adults facing a wide range of criminal charges across Canada. Drawing from their experiences inside courtrooms and within communities, they discuss access to justice, the impact criminal charges can have on individuals and families, and whether some people are being criminalized when what they may truly need is intervention, treatment, or support. This episode focuses on awareness, prevention, and the importance of understanding the realities that exist at the intersection of mental health and the legal system.

This episode of TIPS is the first in a five-part mental health series for the month of May. As we kick off Mental Health Awareness Month, we focus on awareness, early support, and the power of connection. At Crime Stoppers, recognizing when something isn’t right and taking action is at the core of what we do, and that same approach applies to mental health. By understanding the signs and supporting one another early, we can help prevent situations from escalating and build safer, stronger communities.Host Julia Vellucci speaks with Tajman Grewal, director of clinical services at the Canadian Mental Health Association Peel Dufferin, about the role social connection plays in mental well-being and how community-based supports can help prevent challenges from escalating. In the second half of the episode, Diana Martin, senior director of clinical integration and partnerships at Kids Help Phone, shares insight into youth mental health, the importance of accessible support, and how reaching out early can make a difference. This episode highlights the connection between awareness and prevention because recognizing the signs and supporting one another can help build safer, healthier communities.

Child abuse and exploitation don’t always look the way people expect. Often, they happen in ways that are difficult to recognize. In this episode of TIPS, we explore the realities of child and youth abuse, including the different forms it can take, the warning signs to look out for, and how grooming can begin and escalate over time.Host Julia Vellucci is joined by Audrey Rastin, director of education and advocacy, and Maggie Blake, research and knowledge mobilization lead at Boost Child & Youth Advocacy Centre. Together, they share insight into how abuse often occurs in private, how online spaces can play a role in grooming, and what parents, caregivers, and communities can do to help protect young people. This episode focuses on awareness, early recognition, and prevention. Understanding the signs can make all the difference in supporting children and youth before harm escalates.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

This episode of TIPS comes the day after Valentine's, taking a closer look at the difference between love and control. In this episode, host Julia Vellucci explores stalking, coercive control, relationship safety, and why it’s important to recognize the warning signs that can sometimes be hidden behind grand gestures or intense affection. While healthy relationships are built on trust and respect, controlling behaviours, persistent unwanted contact, and manipulation can signal deeper safety concerns. Julia is joined by Emily Murray, legal director at Luke’s Place, who shares insight into how coercive control and stalking appear in real-life situations and why early recognition is critical. Julia also speaks with Dana Dignard, national director of communications for YWCA Canada, about the role communities play in fostering healthy relationships and supporting individuals who may be experiencing harm.

In this episode of TIPS, host Julia Vellucci is joined by Jonah Fried, Communications Specialist and Researcher at B’nai Brith Canada, for an in-depth conversation on hate crimes, reporting barriers, and the role communities play in preventing harm. From understanding legal definitions to examining patterns of antisemitism in Toronto, this episode highlights why anonymous reporting and collective responsibility are essential tools in confronting hate. After all, hate crimes don’t happen in isolation and neither does accountability.  

In this episode of TIPS, host Julia Vellucci takes a closer look at hate crimes through the lens of history, trust, and community responsibility. Timed with Black History Month, Julia is joined by Adrian Leckie, the project manager of Black Legal Action Centre's BLAC Out Hate Project, for an honest conversation about why hate crimes so often go unreported, how historical and systemic factors shape trust in reporting systems, and the role anonymous reporting can play in protecting communities.Together, they explore what hate crimes really look like in Canada, the barriers victims and witnesses face when deciding whether to speak up, and why confronting hate is not just a legal issue but a collective one. This episode is a reminder that awareness, accountability, and action, even quiet, anonymous action, can make a difference.

In the final episode of Crime Stoppers’ 50th anniversary series, host Julia Vellucci is joined by two leaders whose careers span decades of policing and public safety. The Honourable Julian Fantino, retired police executive and former federal cabinet minister, and Allan Burns, President of the Ontario Association of Crime Stoppers, reflect on the evolution of Crime Stoppers and the enduring importance of anonymous reporting. Together, they discuss leadership, public trust, and why community participation remains central to public safety fifty years on and into the future. Be sure to listen to this episode until the very end as the final segment has a special recorded message from Ontario Premier Doug Ford in honour of Crime Stoppers' 50th anniversary.

In another special 50th anniversary episode of TIPS, host Julia Vellucci sits down with Belleville's Chief of Police Murray Rodd and Deputy Chief Sheri Meeks to reflect on the impact of anonymous reporting and the vital role Crime Stoppers continues to play in keeping communities safe. Together, they discuss the evolution of the program, the importance of public trust, and how everyday people can make a real difference by speaking up. 50 years on, this episode highlights why Crime Stoppers remains a powerful tool in preventing crime and supporting communities across Canada.

In another special 50th anniversary episode of Crime Stoppers, host Julia Vellucci speaks with Scott Mills, a 26-year Toronto Police Service veteran who has helped reshape community policing through social media, mental health advocacy, and youth engagement. As TPS’s Social Media Officer, Scott uses digital platforms to build trust, intervene in crisis situations, and connect with the public. Known online as GraffitiBMXCop, he also volunteers with the Canadian Crime Stoppers Association and reflects on why Crime Stoppers remains vital 50 years and onwards.  

This year marks the 50th anniversary of Crime Stoppers. In this episode of TIPS by Peel Crime Stoppers, host Julia Vellucci honours the legacy of Crime Stoppers founder Greg MacAllese and reflects on five decades of anonymous reporting, community partnership, and crime prevention. Julia is joined by Cal Millar, retired Toronto Star general assignment reporter and longtime Crime Stoppers advocate. Cal is a founding member of Toronto Crime Stoppers, former director with Crime Stoppers International, and board member with Halton Crime Stoppers. He shares insight into the program’s origins, evolution, and lasting impact on public safety. This episode celebrates the power of anonymous reporting and the communities that have kept Crime Stoppers strong for 50 years.

In this episode of TIPS, host Julia Vellucci explores theft in both the workplace and at home. Julia chats with Sandra Robinson, a professor at the University of British Columbia and one of Canada’s leading experts in workplace psychology and organizational behaviour, who explains why employees steal and how organizations can prevent it. Michael Arntfield, professor, author, former police officer and founder of the Western Cold Case Society, also shares insights on home break-ins and practical ways to stay safe. From internal trust to external threats, this episode highlights opportunity, vulnerability, and steps to protect yourself, your home, and your community.

In this episode of TIPS, host Julia Vellucci explores how home security, cybersecurity, and theft prevention are more connected now than ever. As crime evolves alongside technology, protecting your home now also means protecting your digital footprint. Cybersecurity expert Nick Espinosa and criminologist Laura Huey share practical, real-world tips on how criminals choose targets, common mistakes that increase risk, and simple steps Canadians can take to safeguard their homes, devices, and personal information. This is an insightful episode about empowerment, not fear, and how community awareness, prevention, and anonymous reporting help keep everyone safer.

In this episode of TIPS, host Julia Vellucci speaks with road-safety expert Steve Brown from the Traffic Injury Research Foundation (TIRF) about how Canadians can stay safe on winter roads. Drawing on TIRF’s national research, Steve breaks down the real causes behind winter collisions, the science of winter tires, and the small behavioural changes that can dramatically reduce risk — from speed and stopping distance to visibility and decision-making.Julia also revisits a past interview with Steve Sullivan, CEO of MADD Canada, who highlights the ongoing dangers of impaired driving, especially during the winter months when conditions are already unpredictable. His perspective underscores how the choices we make before getting behind the wheel are just as critical as how we drive once we’re on the road.Together, these conversations offer practical strategies, evidence-based insight, and life-saving reminders for every Canadian driver. This is an important, timely episode you won’t want to miss!

In this episode of TIPS, host Julia Vellucci commemorates December 6, the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women, a day to honour the 14 women killed at École Polytechnique and to recognize the ongoing reality of gender-based violence in Canada. In this special episode, she speaks to Samra Zafar, human rights advocate, bestselling author, and survivor, whose story of resilience has inspired people across the country. Samra opens up about the warning signs of abuse, the barriers survivors face, and the invisible work of rebuilding a life after trauma. This episode sheds light on why gender-based violence persists, how we can better support survivors, and the role each of us plays in creating safer communities. 

In this episode of TIPS, host Julia Vellucci speaks with crime prevention expert Tom McKay and non-profit leader Danisha Bhaloo-Shivji about Community Safety and Crime Prevention Month, and how communities can help stop harm before it happens. Drawing on Tom’s CPTED expertise and Danisha’s decades of work in the social impact sector, they break down practical strategies for safer neighbourhoods, stronger support networks, and the role anonymous reporting plays in protecting those at risk. Danisha even shares her personal experience of growing up in poverty and the resources that helped her avoid the criminal justice system, offering a powerful perspective on prevention and opportunity. This is an informative episode you're not going to want to miss!

In this episode of TIPS, host Julia Vellucci speaks with restorative justice expert Alana Abramson about Community Safety and Crime Prevention Month, the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, and the role communities can play in preventing harm before it happens. Drawing on over two decades of work in prisons, schools, and neighbourhoods, Alana breaks down how restorative approaches support accountability, healing, and safety as well as how Crime Stoppers’ anonymous reporting can help protect survivors and their loved ones. From recognizing early warning signs to challenging harmful norms, this episode explores how each of us can be part of creating safer, more supportive communities.

In this episode of TIPS, host Julia Vellucci speaks with Steve Sullivan, CEO of MADD Canada, about the importance of World Day of Remembrance for Road Traffic Victims and the ongoing fight against impaired driving. From supporting families to collaborating with police and community partners, Steve breaks down how MADD works to make roads safer and how listeners can be part of the solution.

In this special tribute episode of TIPS by Peel Crime Stoppers, host Julia Vellucci shares a few heartfelt words in memory of Greg MacAleese, the visionary founder of the global Crime Stoppers movement who passed away on November 3, 2025. Nearly 50 years ago, Greg’s idea gave communities around the world including right here in Peel, a safe and anonymous way to speak up and help prevent crime.His legacy continues to make a difference in countless lives today. Julia then turns it over to former host Brendan Lang, as we re-air his past interview with Greg (episode 25) and also features an interview with Cal Millar, the author of a few books on Crime Stoppers. This is a powerful conversation that captures the passion, purpose, and humanity behind a movement that changed the face of community safety. Thank you, Greg, for inspiring a safer world.

In this episode of TIPS, Julia Vellucci interviews Lisa Kearney, Founder and CEO of the Women CyberSecurity Society, a non-profit organization established in 2018 to empower, support, and protect women and other underrepresented groups in cybersecurity. After experiencing repeated workplace bullying and harassment without support, Lisa turned adversity into advocacy by creating a space that fosters safety, mentorship, and inclusion in the tech industry. In honour of Crime Prevention week (November 2 - November 8) and National Community Safety and Crime Prevention Month, this episode explores how online and workplace harassment intersect with cybercrime, why creating safe and inclusive digital and professional environments is essential, and how we can all take steps to prevent harm before it happens. Julia concludes this episode by highlighting Peel Crime Stoppers' most recent fundraiser, The Peel First Responders Hot Sauce Challenge, which team won this contest, and so much more. This is an enticing conversation you're not going to want to miss!

In this episode of TIPS, Julia Vellucci interviews Claudiu Popa, co-founder and chairman of Knowledge Flow Cybersafety Foundation and the president of Data Risk Canada and Vanessa Lafolla, principal at Antifraud Intelligence Consulting. In honour of October being Cybersecurity Awareness Month, together they explore how cybercriminals operate, why scams are becoming more convincing, and what you can do to stay one step ahead both personally and professionally.This is an eye-opening and educational discussion you're not going to want to miss!

In this episode of TIPS, Julia Vellucci interviews Peel Regional Police's Detective Constable Ariel Reyes from the Crime Prevention Unit and Manuel Parreira, senior representative for Ontario at the Bank of Canada. Both guests touch on some tips and tricks in identifying counterfeit currency and what to do if you have it. Together they highlight not only how to stay safe both with physical and digital counterfeit currency as well as the dangers of robbery and cybercrime but also how banks and the police work together. This is an eye-opening and educational discussion you're not going to want to miss!

In this episode of TIPS by Peel Crime Stoppers, host Julia Vellucci takes the time to discuss World Mental Health Day and what it means to prioritize your mental health and those around you. She chats with Leo Petrilli, a mental health advocate and lived-experience speaker who was a past first responder and someone who does incredible work for The Addictions Academy and Boots on the Ground. Together, they discuss recovery, resilience, and the importance of open dialogue for both first responders and the every day person. Leo shares his personal journey through addiction and mental health challenges, offering insight into how community support and awareness can change lives. Other topics of conversation include the stigma surrounding mental illness, the role of compassion in prevention, and how understanding mental health can help build safer, stronger communities. Additionally, Julia highlights Peel Crime Stoppers First Responders Hot Sauce Challenge Fundraiser that is soon approaching on October 30. Give this educational episode a listen featuring Leo's personal stories that are sure to touch your soul!

In this episode of TIPS, Julia Vellucci interviews Luigi Davoli, who was a senior leader with Mississauga Fire, now serving as a board member at Peel Crime Stoppers. He is a dedicated fire safety professional and brings up the important conversation of recognizing Fire Prevention Week (October 5 - October 11). Luigi shares his expertise on the critical steps individuals and families can take to prevent fires, prepare for emergencies, and respond effectively when seconds count. He highlights the importance of fire prevention education, emergency planning, and community awareness, stressing how small actions such as checking smoke alarms, planning escape routes, and practicing fire drills can save lives. This eye-opening and practical discussion is a reminder that fire safety is everyone’s responsibility, and that knowledge and preparation are the keys to protecting ourselves and our loved ones. Be sure to tune in to this empowering and timely episode!

In this episode of TIPS, Julia Vellucci chats with Jeff Fields, a former law enforcement veteran and a passionate advocate for addiction recovery within the law enforcement community, and Laura Kloosterman, executive director of Badge of Life Canada. Jeff shares his powerful personal journey, offering an honest perspective on the struggles and resilience that come with navigating mental health challenges. Laura brings her professional expertise, highlighting the resources, support systems, and initiatives that Badge of Life Canada provides to first responders and their families. Together, they take listeners on an important conversation about suicide awareness and prevention, emphasizing the need for compassion, understanding, and breaking down stigma. This meaningful dialogue in honour of National Law Enforcement Suicide Awareness Day is a reminder that reaching out can save a life and no one has to face their struggles alone. Be sure to give this impactful and heartfelt episode a listen!

In this episode of TIPS, Julia Vellucci chats with Claudia D’Amico, driving complaint and Road Watch coordinator for Peel Police. Claudia has worked extensively to promote safe driving practices and community engagement, focusing on how education and collective responsibility can reduce preventable collisions and injuries. Claudia takes listeners on a powerful road safety journey now that kids are back in school, highlighting the importance of awareness, mindfulness, and responsibility behind the wheel. This thoughtful conversation serves as a reminder that every choice on the road matters and that safety is a shared responsibility. Be sure to give this meaningful and impactful episode a listen!