85 theft charges against Hamilton man, including counts related to Ibrahim Jame mosque break-in
Published January 26, 2023 at 2:24 pm
A 47-year-old Hamilton man whom police say is “transient in nature” is in custody on some 85 charges — with more likely to come — related to break-and-enter investigations. Most of the charges related to thefts at auto repair garages, but some are connected to a theft at a mosque.
Hamilton Police announced they have arrested a suspect for “a rash” of thefts across the city and surrounding region. It comes after a two-month investigation in reported entries to garages and other businesses.
“During the entries, the lone suspect targeted currency and vehicles,” HPS says.
“The suspect primarily targeted auto garages but other businesses were affected, including the Ibrahim Mosque on King Street East in Hamilton.”
The theft at Ibrahim Jame mosque occurred early on Jan. 14. It was made known to the public two days later.
Officers from the Hamilton Police BEAR unit (Break and Enter, Auto Theft, and Robbery) arrested the accused, Ryan Longeran, on Wednesday. They allege he was driving a stolen car from a similar break-and-enter that had occurred in the Niagara Region.
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Further charges expected
The police added the Lonergan is “transient in nature” and has a string of prior convictions for similar crimes in 2011, 2016 and 2017. His bail has been opposed.
Lonergan faces the following counts:
- Break and Enter — Commit Theft — 16 Counts
- Break and Enter — Intent/Attempt — 7 Counts
- Possession of stolen property under $5,000 — 17 Counts
- Mischief Under $5,000 — 22 Counts
The HPS indicated that they are working with other police divisions, and more charges could be laid.
Anyone who was information that could assist police with the investigation into these crimes should contact HPS Det.-Const. Michael Suffoletta (905-546-8936) or Det.-Sgt. Shane Groombridge (905-546-2991).
Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers (1-800-222-8477; online at crimestoppershamilton.com).
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