Stolen historic school bell recovered, two men charged

Historic school bell recovered in Massey A historic bell stolen from a public school near Massey has been recovered an two people have been charged following a traffic stop.

A northern Ontario traffic stop made by provincial police from Manitoulin resulted in the recovery of a historic school bell, a $15,000 drug seizure and 21 charges laid against two men.

The 130-year-old bell was reported stolen from the front of S. Geiger Public School in Massey last week on Oct. 29, Ontario Provincial Police said in a news release.

On Halloween, police stopped a "suspicious" vehicle with two men inside.

"Further investigation led to officers locating the stolen historic bell, as well as several other items suspected to be stolen," OPP said.

Police also seized $15,000 in suspected fentanyl and cocaine, an imitation firearm, weapons, break-in tools and cash.

Both suspects were charged with possession of break-in instruments, two counts of having property obtained by crime, two counts of drug trafficking and possession of a weapon and an imitation weapon for a dangerous purpose.

The 38-year-old male driver from Massey is also charged with two counts of failing to comply with a probation order, driving while under suspension, using a plate not authorized for the vehicle and driving a vehicle with no currently validated permit.

The passenger, a 40-year-old from Espanola, is also charged with mischief and failing to comply with a release order other than to attend court.

The Rainbow District School Board welcomed the news in an email to CTV News on Monday.

"We are pleased that the historic bell has been recovered," the board said.

"It will be returned to its rightful place to be preserved for generations to come."

Both suspects appeared in Sudbury bail court on Oct. 31 and were remanded.

"The Manitoulin OPP is looking to identify the owners of the recovered stolen property," police said.

"If you have experienced a theft, please reach out to the Manitoulin OPP at 1-888-310-1122 with a description of your stolen item."