ATM break-ins across Hamilton area prompts 34 charges for Niagara man

A Niagara Region man faces numerous charges after a rash of ATM break-ins across Hamilton over the last few weeks.

There has been a significant increase in thefts targeting automatic teller machines, more commonly known as ATMs throughout August and September, Hamilton Police report.

These thefts frequently targeted gas stations throughout the city and neighbouring municipalities. As a result of the Hamilton Police Break, Enter, Auto Theft & Robbery, or BEAR, Unit launched an investigation with help from Brantford, Halton, and Niagara police services as well as the OPP.

On Sept. 6, they arrested Justin Hicks, 23 of Welland, on 34 charges including;

• six counts of break and enter – commit
• break and enter – intent
• attempt break and enter
• eight counts of disguise with intent
• eight counts of possession of burglary tools
• possession of a stolen car, and
• nine counts of breaching probation

Police led three raids during the investigation and found numerous items stolen from the various businesses. They also found five stolen vehicles including three pick-up trucks and to high-end cars.

All the police partners are continuing to investigate and Hamilton Police expects further charges in future.

Anyone with information can call Hamilton Police at (905) 546-8934 or CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8477.