The Essex County OPP Marine Unit is investigating a theft after the recovery of a stolen backhoe in the LaSalle Channel of the Detroit River.

On Tuesday June 3, 2025, at approximately 9:00 a.m. the Essex County OPP Marine Unit was on patrol in the LaSalle Channel of the Detroit River when they observed a 50-foot barge with a backhoe on board.

As a vessel inspection was conducted, it was discovered that the backhoe was reported stolen from the Greater Toronto Area.  The backhoe has an estimated value of $200,000.00.

As a result of the investigation, a 42 year old man from LaSalle has been arrested and charged with:

• Possession Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000 – in Canada

The accused was released form custody and is scheduled to appear at the Ontario Court of Justice in Windsor on July 15, 2025.

OPP is asking anyone who may have any information regarding this incident to contact them at 1-888-310-1122

Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or leave an anonymous online message at www.catchcrooks.com where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2000.