Calgary homes under construction allegedly targeted by thief

Calgary police seized twelve firearms and a significant amount of stolen property following an investigation into a series of break-and-enters in Calgary. (Calgary Police Service)

Calgary police are hoping to return a "significant amount" of stolen goods to their rightful owners after seizing the items from two local storage units and a home south of the city.

Police believe the items were taken during a series of break-and-enters targeting new home construction sites in Calgary.

Officers began investigating the thefts back in May, and searched two Calgary storage units and a rural property in the 16000 block on Highway 552 on Sept. 11.

During the search, police found 12 firearms – seven rifles and five shotguns – as well as three crossbows, body armour and multiple rounds of ammunition.

In addition, police seized:

• A small amount of crystal methamphetamine;
• A utility trailer;
• A Suzuki motorcycle;
• A Kawasaki dirt bike; and
• Various property relating to home construction, including microwaves, a gas fireplace insert, unopened boxes of tile and flooring, new faucets, new kitchen and bathroom sinks, a cooktop and a washing machine.

Investigators are now in the process of cataloguing the stolen property, and, where possible, returning it to the rightful owners.

A 46-year-old De Winton man, Alta.,  is facing multiple charges.

Anyone with information on the thefts is asked to call police at 403-266-1234. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Stoppers.