A 35-year-old Barrie man is facing multiple charges after police recovered a stolen SUV and merchandise reported stolen from a business.
Barrie Police officers responded around noon on Sunday, October 18th, to a report of a stolen vehicle near Bradford Street and Victoria Street.
The SUV’s owner had stepped away from the vehicle while leaving the engine running when an unknown man got inside and drove away.
About 40 minutes later, an officer spotted the stolen SUV travelling in heavy traffic and followed it into a parking lot on Bayfield Street. The driver was arrested without incident.
During the investigation, officers also recovered retail merchandise that had recently been reported stolen from a business in Barrie’s north end. The items were returned to the business undamaged.
The 35-year-old Barrie man has been charged with:
- Theft of a motor vehicle
- Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000
- Theft under $5,000
- Mischief under $5,000
Barrie Police are reminding motorists never to leave vehicles running and unattended, even for a moment, as unlocked or running vehicles can present opportunities for theft.
Police encourage vehicle owners to lock unoccupied vehicles, avoid leaving valuables such as wallets, purses and personal identification inside, and promptly report suspicious people, activity or thefts.
