15-05-2025
Stolen football helmet recovered, returned to Sarnia team
A stolen football helmet has been recovered and returned to the Sarnia Imperials Football Clubhouse.
On May 8, the Sarnia Police Service said a break-and-enter took place at the clubhouse at Norm Perry Park. Various items of football gear, including the expensive helmet and some audio equipment, were stolen.
The football club is a not-for-profit organization and the theft impacted the volunteers and its operations greatly.
Police were able to identify the suspect as a 40-year-old man of no fixed address. He allegedly sold the helmet, which was worth $500, to a local pawnshop for $80.
The man was charged with possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000 and trafficking property obtained by crime under $5,000.
The helmet was returned to Sarnia Imperial Football, still in new condition with tags on.
After the incident, the Sarnia Police Service said a relationship was fostered between the two organizations, leading to three officers volunteering. Det. Josh Mitchell volunteered as offensive coordinator, Det. Const. Karl Brown as defensive coordinator, and Const. Colin Sullivan as assistant coach.
'Upon meeting up with SPS to retrieve our property, I struck up a conversation with the investigating officer and subsequently we were able to build a relationship and are now proud to have three officers on our volunteer staff, specifically helping with coaching,' said Andrew Barnes, president and CEO of the Sarnia Imperials Football Club.
'This means so much to our team, as we have always tried to strive for community involvement. I'm thrilled to have three SPS members on our team and hope, in turn, we can bring back the love of the sport to them and the entire community.'
Barnes said all volunteers are welcome and the club is grateful for the partnership and lasting relationship.
