On April 1st the Stratford Police concluded an investigation into large scale thefts of property from a number of different retail locations across Southwestern Ontario.
The investigation projected named “Magnet” stemmed from a prior incident in Stratford in which a female resident of London, Ontario was arrested and charged with criminal offences in relation to retail theft in Stratford.
The investigation revealed the 50 year old routinely travelled to various municipalities where goods were stolen from retail stores including, but not limited to; Shoppers Drug Mart, Indigo, Best Buy, SportsChek, Home Sense and Staples. The stolen merchandise were then trafficked to other involved parties at various locations.
The accused would steal on an average of six days per week and target 6 to 10 stores per day. The accused would travel up to 1000 kilometers per day to reach different retail stores of similar product.
As a result of the investigation the suspects motor vehicle was seized as offence related property and search warrants were executed in Oakville and London where a large quantity of stolen goods were seized. The value of the seized property is estimated to be in excess of $100,000.
Also charged are a 44 year old male and 42 year old female both of Oakville. All 3 parties are jointly charged with numerous offences including; trafficking in stolen goods over $5000, possession of property obtained by crime for the purpose of trafficking over $5000 and conspiracy to commit an indictable offense.
The 50 year old is held in police custody pending a bail hearing. The two residents of Oakville were released from custody by way of Undertaking.
The Stratford Police Services extend thanks to the OPP Halton Regional Police Service and the London Police Service for their assistance in the investigation.
