(ESSEX COUNTY, ON)- The Essex County Ontario Provincial Police (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 am Essex County OPP Marine Unit was on patrol in the LaSalle Channel on 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, it has an estimated value of $200,000.00.

As a result of the investigation, Jason DEWSBURY, 42 years-of-age of 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.