York police charge third suspect in online gambling extortion investigation

Thomas Phippard, 47, of Toronto, has been charged in connection with an extortion investigation. (YRP/photo)

York Regional Police have charged a third suspect in relation to an extortion investigation stemming from an online gambling ring.

In a news release issued Thursday, investigators said a 47-year-old Toronto man is alleged to have worked with an organized crime group between January 2024 and October 2025, who York police say gave victims the chance to place bets online on credit.

When the victims lost their bets, they had to pay their debts in cash, investigators say, adding that sometimes the victims had to pay “exaggerated amounts.”

The suspect allegedly used violence and threats to collect payments, police say.

“Controlled substances, brass knuckles, a collapsible baton, ammunition, and a quantity of Canadian and American currency,” were found after executing a search warrant in Toronto, investigators report.

Thomas Phippard, also known as “Frank the Tank,” has been charged with eleven offences, including kidnapping, two counts of extortion, and possession of illegal drugs.

York Regional Police confirmed to CTV News Toronto that Phippard’s arrest is connected to charges previously announced against two suspects in September.