Taylor Clark

LJI Reporter

The online sleuthing of a theft victim led to the recovery of their high-value bicycle that was stolen from the grounds of the Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival.

In the early hours of September 2, an Abitibi resident noticed their expensive bicycle missing from the festival site and filed an online complaint with the Gatineau Police. After some research online, an advertisement was found matching the stolen bike, and the victim reported it to the police.

Officers set up an appointment with the seller to purchase the bicycle the following day. A 37- year-old man and a 41-year-old woman, both from Gatineau, were arrested at the meeting point. The individuals were released following questioning by investigators and the bicycle was returned to its owner. Charges for theft, possession of property obtained by crime, and trafficking property obtained by crime were submitted to the Director of Criminal and Penal Prosecutions.

Photo caption: A theft victim’s vigilance led Gatineau Police to the arrest of two suspects for stealing a high-value bicycle at the Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival.

Photo credit: Service de police de la Ville de Gatineau Facebook Page