Two men are in custody following a month-long investigation by the Winnipeg Police Service’s Property Crime Unit into a series of vehicle thefts, break-ins, and frauds across the city.
The investigation began in March after a spike in property-related crimes, including stolen vehicles, licence plates, and personal items from cars. Police say the suspects frequently used stolen vehicles to commit further offences and often swapped licence plates to avoid detection.
Among the incidents detailed by investigators were a number of break-ins in the Pembina Highway area on April 4, where thousands of dollars in property were stolen from multiple vehicles. That same day, officers located a stolen Nissan Rogue abandoned on Sara Avenue containing stolen property and numerous license plates connected to earlier crimes.
Other reported incidents include the theft of a BMW from Cordova Street on March 25, the theft and fraudulent use of a credit card on February 16, and gas theft from a station on Osborne Street.
On April 11, police arrested a suspect in connection to the stolen BMW. Officers allege the man was carrying a concealed knife and had stolen identification documents, forged business cheques, and other evidence linking him to various offences.
Reece Alexander Turnbull, 29, of Winnipeg, is facing several charges, including possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, possession of identity documents, possession of forged documents, and six counts of failing to comply with a release order.
Two days later, officers arrested a second suspect during an unrelated investigation. He was allegedly found with a knife and approximately six grams of methamphetamine. He was later identified as being involved in the property crime spree as well.
Daniel Conrad Searcy, 36, of Winnipeg, is charged with multiple offences, including possession of property obtained by crime over and under $5,000, possession of a weapon, possession of methamphetamine, and use of a stolen credit card. He also faces a charge for failing to appear in court.
Police remind residents that documenting personal property and reporting thefts helps investigators identify victims and strengthens the ability to lay charges. It also improves the likelihood that stolen property can be returned.
None of the allegations have been proven in court.