Incident Reported on December 14
ATIKOKAN, ON — Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) in Atikokan say one person is in custody following a reported break-and-enter attempt.
Police report that on December 14, 2025, at approximately 2:45 p.m. CST, a male allegedly attempted to break into a residence on Maple Crescent. OPP say the suspect fled when officers arrived and later barricaded himself at his residence. Investigators also determined the male was wanted in relation to an assault earlier the same day.
Specialized Units Deployed
OPP say members of the Emergency Response Team, Canine Unit, Crisis Negotiators, and the North West Region Crime Unit assisted Atikokan OPP. Police report one individual was safely arrested shortly after 8:20 p.m. CST.
Charges Laid
As a result, Ricky Keeash, 47, of Atikokan, has been charged under the Criminal Code with:
-
Forcible entry
-
Break and enter a dwelling house with intent to commit an indictable offence
-
Assault with a weapon
The accused was held in custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Fort Frances on December 17, 2025. Charges have not been proven in court.
What the Charges Mean and Potential Penalties If Convicted
Break and enter (dwelling) with intent
The Criminal Code offence of breaking and entering with intent (or breaking and entering and committing an indictable offence) carries the most serious maximum penalty when it involves a dwelling-house: life imprisonment.
Assault with a weapon
Assault with a weapon is a hybrid offence (can proceed by indictment or summary conviction). If prosecuted by indictment, the maximum penalty is up to 10 years imprisonment.
If prosecuted by summary conviction, the general Criminal Code maximum is up to 2 years less a day and/or a $5,000 fine, unless another penalty is specifically set out.
Forcible entry
“Forcible entry” is addressed in the Criminal Code’s forcible entry/detainer provisions. The punishment section provides a maximum of up to 2 years imprisonment if prosecuted by indictment, or it may proceed by summary conviction.
(As with all matters, actual sentences depend on the facts, a person’s history, and the judge’s findings.)
How to Better Protect Your Home Against a Break-In
Harden the easy entry points
-
Upgrade to deadbolts and reinforce door frames with longer screws/strike plates.
-
Use window locks, and consider security film or reinforced latches on accessible windows.
Make your home look “occupied”
-
Use timers for lights and a radio/TV when you’re away.
-
Keep entrances well-lit with motion-activated lighting.
Reduce hiding places
-
Trim shrubs near doors/windows and keep walkways visible from the street.
-
Store ladders and tools out of sight—don’t leave “helpers” in the yard.
Add layers of deterrence
-
Visible cameras or a doorbell cam can help deter opportunistic break-ins.
-
Consider an alarm system (even basic door/window sensors).
Good habits matter
-
Lock doors/windows even for short trips.
-
Don’t leave spare keys outside (common hiding spots are well-known).
-
If you see suspicious activity, don’t approach—note descriptions, time, direction of travel, and call police.
The Last Word: Atikokan OPP arrest man after Maple Crescent break-in attempt; charges, penalties, home safety tips.
