Police Intensify Search for Third Suspect Following Business Break-in and Drug Bust
Windsor Police Service is actively pursuing a third suspect in connection with a break-and-enter investigation that has already led to substantial drug trafficking charges against one individual. The incident, which unfolded over several days, began with a reported break-in at a local business and escalated into a significant drug seizure.
Break-in Details and Initial Investigation
On February 23, officers responded to a break-in report at a business located in the 6200 block of Hawthorne Drive. The crime had occurred the previous night. Police investigation revealed that three suspects had cut a hole in a fence to gain access to the property.
During the break-in, the suspects allegedly stole construction equipment from a vehicle on site and caused damage to a welder-generator while attempting to remove it. The perpetrators then fled the area in a U-Haul van, leaving behind evidence that would eventually lead to their identification.
Arrests and Significant Drug Seizure
The target base unit of Windsor Police identified two suspects involved in the incident. The first arrest occurred on February 26, just after 1:30 p.m., following a brief struggle in the 7800 block of Wyandotte Street East.
A subsequent search proved particularly fruitful for investigators, resulting in the seizure of substantial quantities of controlled substances:
- 18.5 grams of methylenedioxymethamphetamine
- 5.8 grams of crystal methamphetamine
- 5.7 grams of fentanyl
- 2.4 grams of an unknown brown powdery substance
In addition to the drugs, officers confiscated a digital scale, cutting agent, packaging materials, various drug paraphernalia, and $410 in cash. Police also recovered a tool that had been reported stolen during the initial break-in investigation.
Charges Filed Against Arrested Suspects
The 40-year-old man arrested first now faces multiple serious charges, including:
- Three counts of possession of a schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking
- Three counts of break-and-enter
- Possession of break-in instruments
- Wearing a disguise during commission of an offence
- Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000
- Mischief
Additionally, he has been charged with seven counts of operation of a motor vehicle while prohibited and one count of failure to comply with a release order.
A second suspect, a 64-year-old man, was arrested later that same evening without incident in the 2400 block of Rivard Avenue. He faces charges of break-and-enter to commit an indictable offence and possession of break-in instruments.
Ongoing Search for Third Suspect
Police continue their search for the third individual involved in the break-in. The suspect is described as a white male with a medium build. At the time of the incident, he was wearing a black winter coat, a black hooded sweatshirt, black pants, black shoes, and a distinctive purple-and-white balaclava.
Windsor Police are urging anyone with information about this suspect or the incident to contact their target base unit at 519-255-6700, extension 4350. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Windsor & Essex County Crime Stoppers at 519-258-8477 (TIPS) or through their online portal at catchcrooks.com.
This case highlights the interconnected nature of property crimes and drug trafficking operations, demonstrating how routine break-in investigations can uncover more serious criminal enterprises. The Windsor Police Service remains committed to pursuing all individuals involved in these interconnected criminal activities.
