Theft investigation leads to two arrests

A canine unit discovered what is suspected to be crack cocaine yesterday morning during an arrest for theft and possession of stolen property.

Two men were sitting in a car at about 11 a.m. on Semenyn Street when police arrested one of them for possession of stolen portable welders valued at about $1200. The welders had been stolen from A St. Clair Street business on January 21. An employee at the store reported a security alarm was sounded when a man left the store. After reviewing surveillance video, the employee realized the welders had been stolen.

A 41-year-old Chatham man was arrested for theft and possession of stolen property. The Chatham-Kent police called in the canine unit when the suspected crack was discovered. A 55-year-old man of no fixed address was charged, along with the Chatham man, with drug possession. Both men were held in custody for a bail hearing.