Chatham-Kent Police Service officials allege: The Chatham-Kent Police Service Intelligence Unit has concluded a significant phase of an extensive investigation launched to identify and hold accountable those responsible for the theft of commemorative plaques throughout the municipality.
Over the course of several weeks, investigators dedicated considerable resources to tracking stolen plaques, identifying persons of interest, gathering evidence and obtaining judicial authorizations. The investigation involved intelligence gathering, surveillance and coordinated enforcement efforts aimed at recovering stolen property and bringing those responsible before the courts.
Between Aug. 20 and Sept. 2, members of the Intelligence Unit executed five search warrants at three separate residences, a trailer and a vehicle, all in Chatham. The warrants were executed on Lorne Avenue, Wellington Street East and Copperfield Crescent.
On Aug. 20, members of the Intelligence Unit executed a search warrant on Lorne Avenue in Chatham. As a result, police located and arrested a 47-year-old Chatham man. He has been charged with possession of ammunition contrary to a prohibition order, three counts of possession of stolen property under $5,000 and three counts of theft under $5,000.
On Aug. 27, members of the Intelligence Unit executed two search warrants at a residence and trailer on Wellington Street East in Chatham. As a result, police located and arrested a 39-year-old Chatham man. He has been charged with theft under $5,000, possession of stolen property under $5,000 and failing to comply with a probation order.
On Sept. 2, members of the Intelligence Unit executed two search warrants at a residence on Copperfield Crescent in Chatham and on a vehicle connected to the investigation. During the execution of the warrants, investigators located and seized approximately 121 grams of fentanyl, digital scales, packaging materials consistent with drug trafficking, cellular telephones, a quantity of Canadian currency, one complete stolen commemorative plaque and numerous fragments and pieces of other stolen commemorative plaques.
The estimated street value of the seized fentanyl is approximately $24,000. The recovered commemorative plaque is valued at approximately $1,500.
As a result, two individuals, a 28-year-old Chatham man and a 36-year-old Chatham woman, have each been charged with possession of fentanyl for the purpose of trafficking and possession of stolen property under $5,000. Both accused were held in custody pending bail hearings.
A third individual, a 35-year-old Chatham man, has been charged with theft under $5,000 and two counts of possession of stolen property under $5,000. That accused was released on an undertaking with conditions and will appear in court at a later date.
The Chatham-Kent Police Service recognizes the significance of the stolen commemorative plaques to local families, organizations and the broader community. These plaques serve as lasting tributes to individuals and events of historical importance, and their theft has had a profound impact on residents across Chatham-Kent. This investigation demonstrates the commitment of the Chatham-Kent Police Service to pursue those responsible, recover stolen property whenever possible, and protect community heritage.
The investigation remains ongoing, as investigators continue to follow evidence obtained through the execution of the search warrants. Members of the public who may have information related to stolen commemorative plaques are encouraged to contact the Chatham-Kent Police Service.
Anyone with information regarding this investigation is asked to contact the Chatham-Kent Police Service. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
