Butter Thefts in Guelph: Seven Incidents Reported Over 10 Months
Butter thefts are on the rise in Guelph, Ontario, with police reporting seven major thefts in the last ten months. The most recent incidents happened in October, with thieves targeting several grocery stores in the city.
October Thefts
On October 12, two men entered a store on Speedvale Avenue East around 7:45 p.m. They filled their cart with various items, including three cases of butter worth $936, and left through a receiving door without paying. The Guelph Police described the suspects as brown-skinned, about 40 years old, and 5’7” with medium builds. The suspects last drove off in a white four-door sedan.
Just four days later, on October 16, another theft occurred at a business on Eramosa Road. This time, two men stole four cases of butter valued at $958. They exited through an emergency door and fled in a similar white sedan.
Previous Incidents
In August 2023, thieves targeted two stores within hours of each other. One man walked out of a store on Gordon Street and Clair Road with $500 worth of butter, while another man took $300 worth of butter from a store on Kortright Road West and Edinburgh Road South. Witnesses last saw both suspects in a white Toyota Corolla.
On December 24, 2023, police arrested three men from Brampton who attempted to steal over $1,000 in butter. Officers recovered 144 sticks of butter and 17 containers of ghee from their car.
Why is Butter Being Stolen?
Police say butter has become a surprising but valuable target for thieves in Guelph. Cases are often worth hundreds of dollars, making butter a sought-after item.
Police are investigating whether the incidents are connected, but they have not found a clear link yet. Guelph Police urge businesses to stay cautious and report any suspicious activity.
Police will provide more updates as they continue investigating these ongoing thefts.
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