A two-year investigation, codenamed Project Scala, has culminated in the arrest of nine individuals and the seizure of a hidden world of illicit activity operating within the Greater Toronto Area.
The investigation, launched in early 2024 by the York Regional Police Traditional Organized Crime Task Force, focused on uncovering illegal gambling operations flourishing in Vaughan and Toronto. Detectives quickly realized these weren’t isolated incidents, but part of a larger, coordinated network.
Working alongside the South Simcoe Police Service, investigators began to identify key figures allegedly responsible for collecting profits from these underground gambling dens. The operation revealed a sophisticated system for funneling money from the illegal establishments.
On January 22nd, a series of meticulously planned search warrants were executed across multiple locations. Raids targeted residences, gaming houses, a business, and even a storage locker, all strategically located in Vaughan and Toronto.
The scope of the operation was significant. Investigators seized numerous video gaming machines and associated equipment, alongside a disturbing quantity of illicit tobacco and alcohol. But the discoveries didn’t stop there.
Large sums of cash were recovered, along with a cryptocurrency wallet, valuable silver bars and coins, and two vehicles. Adding another layer to the complexity, investigators also found a quantity of controlled substances hidden within the network.
Alessaandro Ortolano, 56, of Vaughan, faces serious charges including possession and trafficking of property obtained through crime exceeding $5,000, alongside charges related to operating an illegal gambling house. He is joined by Giorgio Campagna, 64, and Giuseppe Minaci, 61, both of Toronto, who share similar accusations.
Giuseppe Ferraro, 63, of Cambridge, is accused of possessing substances for trafficking, along with charges related to property obtained through crime and running a gambling house. The investigation also implicated Caprice Sluman, 61, of Vaughan, who is charged with possession of a controlled substance and operating a gaming house.
Paul Lessis, 47, of Innisfil, Gaspere Malfara, 70, of Vaughan, and James Sze, 27, of Toronto, all face charges related to maintaining common gaming houses. Salvatore Blanda, 50, of Tottenham, was found within one of these establishments and subsequently charged.
Project Scala represents a significant blow to organized crime in the region, exposing a network that thrived in the shadows. The investigation underscores the dedication of law enforcement to dismantling these illicit operations and bringing those responsible to justice.
