(GREY BRUCE, ON) - The Grey Bruce Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), Community Street Crime Unit (CSCU), in partnership with Dufferin CSCU and Grey Bruce OPP Crime Unit, have charged two individuals in connection with a property crime investigation that spanned Grey and Dufferin Counties.
In early July, the Grey Bruce CSCU initiated an investigation relating to several break-and-enter incidents and stolen property reports in the region. On July 15, 2025, a stolen Ford F650 U-Haul truck was located in the Melancthon Township area and linked to the ongoing investigation.
On July 16, 2025, at approximately 8:02 am, members of the Dufferin OPP responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle on Southgate Road 4 in Southgate Township. Two individuals were arrested without incident at the scene. A search of the U-Haul truck led to the recovery of numerous tools and items reported stolen from a recent break and enter in Meaford, along with instruments used to commit break-ins.
Later that day, at 3:53 pm, officers executed a search warrant at a property in the Melancthon Township area. A stolen 18-foot flatbed trailer was located and seized. The total estimated value of property recovered during the investigation is $106,000.
The following individuals have been charged under the Criminal Code of Canada with the following:
David JOHNSTON, 51-years-old from Southgate:
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000 (two counts)
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5,000 (three counts)
- Possession of Break in Instruments
Mark HARLOW, 44-years-old from Shelburne:
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000 (two counts)
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5,000 (three counts)
- Possession of Break in Instruments
JOHNSTON and HARLOW were released from custody and are scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Owen Sound on August 21, 2025.