An Orillia man is among two people facing a slew of charges after a crime spree that included 19 separate incidents between Christmas Eve and Boxing Day.
Police say there were "numerous thefts" in Collingwood between Dec. 24 and Dec. 26.
"Several items were taken from unlocked vehicles including gift cards, cash, bank cards and tools. At one point during their bout of theft, suspects stole a vehicle and used stolen cards to pay for fuel," noted a media release from the OPP.
As a result of evidence gathered by the Collingwood OPP and with the public's assistance, two male suspects were identified.
On-duty officers were able to locate the two males while patrolling the streets of Collingwood.
One male fled on foot as officers initiated the arrest of the second male. One officer was assaulted during the arrest but was not injured. The second suspect was located a short time later and arrested without incident.
In total, 37 criminal charges were laid by police and outstanding warrants were executed. Among the charges laid were:
- Theft under $5,000
- Take motor vehicle without consent
- Use of credit card
- Possession of property obtained by crime
- Possession of proceeds obtained by crime
- Assault a peace officer
- Flight from police
Charged are 33-year-old Richard Asselstine of Orillia, and 30-year-old William Cook of Collingwood. Both males were held in custody pending a bail hearing today.
Collingwood OPP says the assistance of the public is always appreciated.
"If anyone has information or video evidence of these crimes, we ask that you come forward," noted the media release.
The OPP may be contacted at 1-888-310-1122 or anonymously at Crime Stoppers 1-800-222-TIPS. Police case file is C24124492.
