Month-long OPP break-and-enter, theft investigation leads to 16 charges

A 32-year-old Cochrane man faces 16 charges after a month-long break-in and theft investigation. Police recovered stolen items from two local residences.

A 32-year-old Cochrane man faces 16 charges after a month-long Ontario Provincial Police investigation into a series of break-ins and thefts targeting local businesses and private properties.

The investigation, which looked into crimes reported over the past several months, culminated in the execution of two search warrants at residences in Cochrane. Warrants were carried out on Oct. 16 and Oct. 23 at homes on Star Street and James Bay Road.

Recovery of stolen property

Police said the searches resulted in the recovery of numerous stolen items.

The investigation focused on break-and-enters at industrial sites, commercial storage lots and residential properties in the area.

Victims reported the theft of tools, wiring, electronics and other valuable items. In some cases, the incidents involved significant property damage and forced entry into trailers and work vehicles, with several occurring during nighttime hours.

“The arrest follows a series of property crimes reported over the past several months, including multiple break-and-enters at industrial sites, commercial storage lots and residential properties,” said police in a news release.

Numerous charges laid

The man has been charged with two counts of theft, mischief, two counts of breaking and entering to commit an offence, trespassing at night, seven counts of possession of property obtained by crime and three counts of failing to comply with a release order.

The accused was held in custody pending a bail hearing on Friday.

“OPP continues to investigate,” said police.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers anonymously.