Suspect arrested for string of commercial thefts
WINDSOR POLICE NEWS RELEASE
Case #: 24-99279, 24-98671
Suspect arrested for string of commercial thefts
The Windsor Police Service has charged a 38-year-old man in connection with a string of commercial thefts.
Between May 11 and August 17, 2024, Windsor Police received reports of thefts from multiple retail stores involving a male suspect with the same description. In all eight incidents, the suspect entered a store, selected power tools, outdoor equipment, or other products, and left without paying for the items.
In addition to these thefts, the suspect was also captured on video surveillance using a stolen debit card and fleeing the scene in a vehicle that had been reported stolen.
The Windsor Police Target Base Unit launched an investigation and identified the suspect as Lester Markham. On August 21, 2024, officers arrested Markham following a vehicle stop in the 3600 block of Wyandotte Street East. Markham is charged with the following:
- Theft under $5,000 (x 9)
- Operation of a motor vehicle while prohibited (x 2)
- Possession of property obtained by crime (x 2)
- Use of a credit card obtained by crime
- Failure to comply with conditions of probation
- Failure to comply with a release order
In August 2023, Markham was released from custody with a condition prohibiting him from possessing any debit or credit card not in his name. Following a separate conviction in May 2024, he was issued a court order not to have care or control of a motor vehicle.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Windsor Police Target Base Unit at 519-255-6700, ext. 4350. You can also contact Crime Stoppers anonymously at 519-258-8477 (TIPS) or online at www.catchcrooks.com