TIPS by Peel Crime Stoppers

TIPS by Peel Crime Stoppers - Epi 112 - The Grey Area: Mental Health, & Justice

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.

TIPS by Peel Crime Stoppers - Epi 111 -  Prevention Starts with Awareness: Mental Health Matters

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.

TIPS by Peel Crime Stoppers - Epi 110 - What You’re Not Seeing: Child Abuse, & Grooming

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.

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

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.

TIPS by Peel Crime Stoppers - Epi 108 - Spring Cleanup Safety: Fire Prevention and Emergency Readiness

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.