Sarnia Police Service officials allege: Police have charged four young offenders after a series of smash-and-grab break and enters at two Sarnia businesses between July and September.
Sarnia Drip, a downtown clothing store, was hit three times between July 13 and Sept. 11, 2025. In each case, suspects threw an object through a window, went inside and fled with merchandise. Tugboat Vape on Murphy Road was targeted in a similar fashion three times between Sept. 4 and Sept. 17.
On Oct. 3, Sarnia police received information from Chatham-Kent police linking the incidents to similar crimes in that community. Investigators obtained a Criminal Code search warrant for a Sarnia residence, where officers located evidence connected to the break-ins. Police say a substantial amount of stolen property was recovered and has been returned to the businesses.
Two young offenders have been charged in connection with the incidents at Sarnia Drip with possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000. The same two youths are charged in connection with the Tugboat Vape break-ins with break and enter and possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000. Two additional young offenders are charged with break and enter in relation to the Tugboat incidents.
Police say they are prohibited from releasing identifying information about the accused under the Youth Criminal Justice Act, which bars the publication of any details that could reveal the identity of a youth charged or found guilty of an offence. The legislation also prevents members of the public, including media outlets and social media users, from posting or sharing information that could identify a youth involved in a criminal matter.
The rules are intended to protect young people from long-term harm or stigma, encourage accountability and support rehabilitation.
