Male Arrested after a Series of Break-and-Enters in Ajax
A male is in custody after a brief pursuit with police following a series of break and enters in Ajax.
On Wednesday, October 4, 2023, at approximately 5:15 a.m., members from West Division responded to the area of Bayly Street West and Westney Road South in Ajax after a report of a break-and-enter at a local business. A male suspect was seen on video surveillance but fled the area prior to police arrival.
On Wednesday, October 4, 2023, at approximately 5:35 a.m., members from West Division responded to another report of a break-and-enter at a local business in the same area. The same male suspect was observed on video surveillance before fleeing the business. Police located the suspect driving an e-bike in the area and attempted a traffic stop. The suspect failed to stop for police and a brief pursuit was initiated. The suspect lost control of his e-bike and collided with the curb of the roadway. The male was taken into custody without incident.
The suspect was transported to a local area hospital with minor injuries.
Kevin-Lea STRICKLAND, age 47 of Ajax is charged with: Break-and-Enter Non-Dwelling x16, Possess Property Obtained by Crime Under $5000 x12, Possess Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000 x2, Possession of a Prohibited Weapon (stun gun) x1, Possess Schedule I Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking (cocaine) x1, Possess Break in Instruments x1, Possess Other Schedule I Substance x1, Possess Schedule I Substance (methamphetamine) x1, Possess Weapon Dangerous to Public Peace x1.
STRICKLAND has also been identified by investigators as the suspect in multiple other break-and-enters throughout the year.
He was held for bail hearing.
Anyone with new information that could help investigators is asked to contact D/Cst. Aselton of the West Division Property Crimes Unit at 905-579-1520 x 2535.
Anonymous information can be sent to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.durhamregionalcrimestoppers.ca and tipsters may be eligible for a $2,000 cash reward.
The information in this media release contains facts and circumstances that have been obtained from a police investigation. These allegations have yet to be proven in court.
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