Multiple arrests made; stolen property recovered in police collaboration

An undated photo of an Ontario Provincial Police cruiser. (File image/Supplied/Bobb Barratt/Ontario Provincial Police)

The Chatham-Kent Police Service and Elgin-Middlesex County OPP joined forces recently in an investigation of stolen property affecting both areas.

According to the CKPS, there has been an increase in break-and-enters, thefts, and stolen vehicles. The police forces joined in an effort to find those responsible in the incidents.

On March 26, police executed search warrants in Chatham-Kent and Elgin-Middlesex County. Multiple suspects were arrested as a result, as stolen vehicles, stolen property, illegal guns, and illicit drugs were recovered.

An additional search warrant was obtained and executed at a home in Glencoe, resulting in the seizure of methamphetamine, multiple guns, and a stolen pickup truck that had its vehicle identification number altered and replaced.

In this incident, a 35-year-old man was arrested and charged with failure to comply with a release order, possession of a firearm contrary to prohibition order, careless storage of a firearm, unauthorized possession of a firearm, knowledge of unauthorized possession of a firearm, and possession of methamphetamine.

Three woman, ages 58, 34, and 47 were also arrested and are facing numerous charges.

Later the same day, the CKPS executed a search warrant at a home on Victoria Road in Thamesville. Officers said a search revealed a “chop shop” in the outbuilding of the property, where a stolen pickup truck was found, which was in the process of having its vehicle identification number replaced. Multiple other parts from stolen vehicles throughout Southwestern Ontario were also recovered, in addition to hydromorphone, cocaine, and fentanyl.

On Tuesday, a 62-year-old man and a 38-year-old man were arrested and charged with possession of stolen property obtained by crime over $5,000.

The investigation continues and additional charges are likely. Anyone with information is asked to contact the CKPS at 519-352-1234 or Elgin County OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Anonymous tips can be sent to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.