Waterloo Regional Police have arrested two men following the discovery of a stolen vehicle in a roadside ditch in Wilmot Township early Thursday morning, an incident that has raised renewed concerns about overnight crime and property theft in the region. The arrests came after a routine police patrol turned into an unexpected investigation involving a damaged vehicle, suspected stolen property, and a brief foot pursuit through a nearby field.
The incident occurred during the early hours of December 5, and according to police, it quickly developed into a wider inquiry that connected the suspects to other criminal activity in the area. Both men are now facing multiple criminal charges and remain in custody pending further court proceedings.
Early Morning Patrol Leads to Discovery
At around 2 a.m. on December 5, Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) officers were conducting routine patrols near the intersection of Bleams Road and Queens Street in Wilmot Township. This area, typically quiet during the overnight hours, suddenly became the scene of a significant police response when officers noticed a vehicle sitting in an unusual position in a ditch alongside the road.
The sight of the car immediately drew attention, as the location and condition of the vehicle appeared suspicious. Officers approached the car to assess the situation, concerned it may have been involved in an accident, abandoned, or possibly connected to criminal activity.
Initial Investigation at the Scene
Upon closer inspection, officers determined that the vehicle had not simply veered off the road by accident. Through preliminary checks, including a review of license plate registration and vehicle identification details, police confirmed that the car had been reported stolen.
This discovery transformed what began as a routine patrol check into an active criminal investigation. Officers then focused their attention on the individuals found in connection with the vehicle.
One Suspect Arrested, Another Flees the Scene
Police identified two occupants associated with the vehicle at the time it was discovered in the ditch. One of the men was taken into custody at the scene without significant resistance. However, the second suspect attempted to flee when officers approached.
Foot Chase Through Nearby Fields
In an effort to escape arrest, the second individual ran from the scene, heading into an open field nearby. Responding officers, including backup units who arrived quickly after the initial call, pursued the fleeing suspect.
The foot chase did not last long. Officers were able to track and intercept the individual a short distance away, successfully bringing him into custody. No injuries were reported during the pursuit, and the arrest was carried out without further incident.
Suspected Cannabis and Stolen Property Recovered
Following the arrests, officers conducted a thorough search of the vehicle. During this examination, they uncovered substances believed to be cannabis, along with items that appeared to be stolen property.
Connection to a Previous Business Theft
Authorities believe that some of the property found inside the vehicle may be linked to a reported theft from a business located in Waterloo that occurred on November 28. While police have not yet publicly identified the business, they confirmed that the stolen items are consistent with goods reported missing during that earlier incident.
This discovery has expanded the scope of the investigation, as detectives now work to determine the exact timeline of events and whether the two suspects may be connected to other thefts or criminal activity in the region.
Forensic analysis, including the review of surveillance footage and examination of the recovered property, is currently underway to support the ongoing investigation.
Charges Laid Against Both Men
As a result of the investigation, the two men are now facing a number of serious charges reflecting the nature of their alleged involvement in multiple offences.
Charges Against the 44-Year-Old Man
The 44-year-old male suspect has been charged with the following offences:
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Two counts of breach of probation
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Possession of stolen property over $5,000
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Robbery
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Trespass at night
These charges indicate that the individual was already on probation at the time of the incident, and police allege that he violated the conditions of his release by engaging in new criminal activity. The additional charges of robbery and trespassing at night further suggest a broader pattern of unlawful behavior.
Charges Against the 35-Year-Old Man
The 35-year-old male suspect is also facing multiple charges, including:
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Two counts of breach of probation
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Possession of stolen property over $5,000
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Possession of over 30 grams of cannabis
These offences indicate that this individual, like his co-accused, was also reportedly bound by probation conditions that prohibited him from committing further crimes or possessing controlled substances.
Both men were taken into custody following their arrests and were held for bail hearings.
Impact on the Community
Incidents involving stolen vehicles and associated criminal behavior can deeply affect local residents, particularly in communities that are generally peaceful during the late-night and early-morning hours. Wilmot Township is known for its rural charm and close-knit neighborhoods, making such events especially unsettling.
Local residents living near Bleams Road and Queens Street expressed concern over the incident, noting that they do not often see a heavy police presence in the area at that time of night.
Though police have confirmed that there is no ongoing threat to public safety, they encourage residents to remain vigilant, lock vehicles and property, and report any suspicious activity, no matter how minor it may appear.
Ongoing Investigation and Next Steps
Waterloo Regional Police have confirmed that the investigation is still ongoing. Officers are continuing to gather additional evidence, speak with witnesses, and analyze any connections to other crimes that may have taken place in the area over the past several weeks.
Cooperation With Local Businesses
Investigators are working closely with local business owners, particularly those who reported a theft on November 28, to confirm whether the items recovered from the vehicle match the stolen inventory. This process may involve a detailed inventory comparison and review of security footage from the affected premises.
Police have also requested that any businesses or residents who may have experienced theft or suspicious activity around late November come forward and report their experiences.
Authorities stress that information from community members can play a critical role in resolving criminal investigations and preventing future incidents.
Importance of Routine Patrols
This case highlights the crucial role that routine police patrols play in maintaining public safety. What began as a standard overnight patrol quickly evolved into a significant criminal investigation leading to the arrest of two individuals who may be linked to multiple offences.
Law enforcement officials emphasize that consistent patrols, combined with quick response times and coordinated teamwork, are essential in preventing crime and apprehending suspects before more harm can occur.
The discovery of the stolen vehicle could easily have gone unnoticed until daylight hours. Instead, the vigilance of officers on duty helped bring the suspects into custody and recover stolen goods.
Conclusion
The arrest of two men following the recovery of a stolen vehicle in Wilmot Township serves as a reminder that crime can occur at any time, even in areas known for their quiet and peaceful environments. Thanks to the swift action of Waterloo Regional Police officers, a potentially ongoing criminal situation was brought to an immediate halt.
With suspected drugs and stolen property recovered and both suspects facing multiple charges—including breaches of probation, possession of stolen goods, and other criminal allegations—the case will now proceed through the legal system.
As the investigation continues, authorities remain committed to ensuring accountability and maintaining safety across the Waterloo Region. Residents are encouraged to stay aware of their surroundings, take precautions to protect their property, and continue working with police to help keep their communities secure.
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