The Salvation Army is expressing cautious optimism after learning that Toronto police have recovered a cache of stolen items belonging to the organization from a warehouse in Brampton.
“We commend the Toronto Police Service for what appears to be timely progress in its investigation and wish it continued success,” said Divisional- Secretary Major John P. Murray in a statement Saturday afternoon.
Earlier Saturday police announced they have recovered about three tractor-trailers worth of toys and other goods that were stolen from a Toronto Salvation Army warehouse over a two-year period.
The items, stored on 146 skids, included everything from toys to baby cribs, strollers and food and were seized from a commercial warehouse in Brampton on Friday.
“It’s a significant seizure,” Const. Tony Vella told CP24. “We’re still in the process of itemizing each item. Once we do that the property will be returned back to the Salvation Army.”
Officials with the Salvation Army had previously said that an internal audit had revealed that about $2 million in toys were missing from its Railside Drive facility.
The theft was reported to police on Sept. 27, but first made headlines on Tuesday after a CTV Toronto investigation.
Even though it appears some of the missing items have been recovered, the Salvation Army pointed out that it may still be some time before they get the items back in their possession.
“The Salvation Army is under no illusions that the recovered toys can be returned to us soon, as it appears likely they will be required as evidence in any criminal court proceedings that arise,” Murray said.
No arrests have been made and the investigation is ongoing.
It is not known if any goods remain outstanding.
Anyone with information is asked to contact police at (416) 808−3304 or Crime Stoppers at (416) 222−TIPS (8477).
@Josh_F is on Twitter. Remember for instant breaking news follow @cp24 on Twitter.
