Fort Frances, ON – In a swift response to a reported firearm theft, the Rainy River District Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has successfully arrested and charged two youth under various Criminal Code (CC) offences.
Incident Report and Investigation Initiation
On September 28, 2023, at approximately 11:30 a.m., the Rainy River District OPP Detachment received a distressing report concerning the theft of a firearm from a vehicle on Christie Avenue in Fort Frances. Rapidly mobilizing, officers initiated an investigation into the incident.
Charges Filed Against Youth Offenders
Following their investigation, the OPP arrested and charged a 13-year-old, whose identity remains protected under the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA). The charges under the Criminal Code include:
- Trafficking in Firearm, Weapon, Device, or Ammunition
- Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
- Possession of a Firearm, Prohibited or Restricted Weapon Obtained by Crime
- Break and Enter a Motor Vehicle and Steal a Firearm
- Theft Under $5,000
- Mischief Under $5,000
Similarly, a 17-year-old, also protected under the YCJA, faces charges under the CC for:
- Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
- Possession of a Firearm, Prohibited or Restricted Weapon Obtained by Crime
- Break and Enter a Motor Vehicle and Steal a Firearm
- Theft Under $5,000
- Mischief Under $5,000
Legal Proceedings and Appeal for Information
Both accused youths are currently in custody and are scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Fort Frances at a later date. The OPP urges anyone with information related to this incident or similar occurrences to contact them at 1-888-310-1122. For those wishing to maintain anonymity, Crime Stoppers can be reached at 1-800-222-8477. Your cooperation is essential in ensuring community safety and justice.
