New criminal charges have been laid against two men, including a retired Toronto police constable, as part of an ongoing investigation into an organized crime group allegedly running illegal gaming and betting operations across the Greater Toronto Area.
New Extortion Charges for 'Frank the Tank'
The investigation, led by the York Regional Police Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau in partnership with South Simcoe Police, has resulted in additional charges for a man police identify as Thomas Phippard, 47, of Toronto. Known by the aliases "Frank" or "Frank the Tank," Phippard was initially charged in late 2025 with kidnapping and other offences linked to illegal gaming.
On Monday, January 12, 2026, investigators executed a search warrant at a Toronto residence, leading to new allegations against Phippard. He now faces three additional counts of extortion and one count of uttering threats. This adds to his previous 11 charges, which included kidnapping, extortion, and possession of a weapon.
Alleged Crime Group's Violent Collection Methods
Police allege the organized crime group operated between January 2024 and October 2025, providing access to illicit gaming websites where victims placed bets on credit. According to authorities, when individuals lost their bets, they were required to settle substantial debts in cash.
"When victims lost their bets, they were required to settle their debts in cash, sometimes in exaggerated amounts," police stated. Investigators claim one of the accused used threats and violence to intimidate victims into making payments.
During an earlier search on October 16, 2025, at a Toronto home, police seized controlled substances, brass knuckles, a collapsible baton, ammunition, and Canadian and American currency.
Former Toronto Police Officer Arrested in Barrie
In a significant development, a 55-year-old Barrie man was arrested on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, after police executed a search warrant at his residence. He has been identified as John Madeley, a former officer with the Toronto Police Service (TPS).
A TPS spokesperson, Stephanie Sayer, confirmed that Madeley retired on April 1, 2025, after 28 years of service. At the time of his retirement, he was a police constable at 12 Division working as a Neighbourhood Community Officer.
Madeley faces several charges, including:
- One count of breach of trust
- Four counts of unauthorized use of a computer
- One count of possession of a firearm at an unauthorized place
- Two counts of possession of a prohibited device
- One count of possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000
The nature of the charges suggests his position as a police officer is connected to the allegations. However, as a retired member, he cannot face charges under the Police Service Act.
Ongoing Investigation and Call for Victims
York Regional Police have expressed concern that there may be additional victims who have not yet come forward. The investigation into the organized crime group's activities remains active.
Authorities are urging anyone with information related to this case to contact the Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6980, or to provide tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
The case highlights the intersection of illegal online gambling operations and violent collection tactics, now further complicated by the alleged involvement of a former law enforcement official.
