LOCAL PAIR CHARGED IN LEGION LOBBY THEFT OF WAR MEDALS, WHEELCHAIR IN GRAVENHURST

Mark Clairmont | MuskokaTODAY.com

GRAVENHURST — Weeks after being targeted by vandals — who smashed several windows — the legion here was the victim of heartless thieves who stole war memorabilia and a wheelchair from the lobby.

This comes just days after the community paid tribute there to veterans on Remembrance Day.

Police have charged two people to the daytime theft from the Royal Canadian Legion in Gravenhurst Bethune Drive and Veterans’ Way.

Police says that on Wednesday, Nov. 20, at about 3:20 p.m. two people entered the main entrance lobby to the legion, where they stole a number of irreplaceable First and Second World War memorabilia, clothing and a wheelchair.

Officers conducted an investigation into the theft and with the assistance of community members and the availability of surveillance footage nearby, the suspects were identified.

Police charged 32-year-old Ashley Schell and 34-year-old Jesse Dawson, both of Gravenhurst.

Each was charged with Theft OVER $5,000 CC 334(a).

Schell and Dawson are to appear in the Ontario Court of Justice in Bracebridge December 17, 2024 and January 14, 2025, respectively, to answer to their charges.

Many of the stolen items have not yet been recovered and anyone with information on there whereabouts is asked to contact the local OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Or if you wish to remain anonymous you may call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at crimestopperssdm.com.

An old file photo shows the legion’s lobby showcase where medals and memorabilia were stolen. Also a wheel chair next to it was also stolen the afternoon of Nov. 20.

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