Released March 3, 2015
In early February, the Saanich Police Street Crime Unit received information from members of the Nanaimo RCMP Street Crime Unit that a prolific offender was in the process of moving from the Nanaimo area to Greater Victoria.
Members of the Saanich Police Street Crime unit, with the assistance of members from the VICPD Strike Force, were able to utlilize specialized investigative techniques during the course of their investigation. This included covert surveillance of the activities of the person of interest.
On February 11, 2015, a break and enter to a residence occurred in the 300 block of Goward Road in Saanich during daytime hours. Entry to the residence was gained through an insecure window. Items including cash and jewelry were taken from the home.
On February 12, 2015, Michael Alexander Duhamel (47 years old) was arrested. At the time of the arrest, some of the property from the break and enter, including family heirloom jewelry, was recovered and returned to the owners.
The accused has remained in custody and is expected to make a further court appearance later this week. Charges approved to date include once count of breaking and entering, one count of possession of stolen property, one count of theft under $5000, and four counts of breach of a recognizance.
Information relating to a further break and enter that occurred in the 5100 block of Cordova Bay Road have also been submitted. It is anticipated that further charges will be approved.
Home owners are reminded to ensure that all windows and doors are secured in some fashion prior to leaving their residence.
File 2015-2479
Sgt. Steve Eassie #158