Tuesday, March 19, 2024

61-year-old woman arrested after stealing $10,000 espresso machine from Nanaimo church

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A 61-year-old woman who is known to police has been charged with the break and enter of a Nanaimo church.

The break-in occurred on August 30th at the Oceanside International Church located on Jingle Pot Road.

While the woman, Penny Raines, stole many items from the church, the most significant item stolen was a $10,000 espresso coffee machine, police say.

The investigation led police to a home known for criminal activity in north Nanaimo.

“As luck would have it, while there the officers spotted an individual who was wanted on several warrants. As expected this person took off running on foot and although pursued by officers, he was not located,” said Constable Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.

Police said the actions of this person assisted the officers in obtaining a search warrant for the residence.

By the end of the day, most of the stolen goods from the church had been located and “sufficient evidence was gathered” to charge Raines for the break and enter.

Her vehicle, an older model Jeep Cherokee, was also seized and was successfully forfeited to the crown by way of civil forfeiture.

Raines was formally charged in November and is currently before the courts.

Along with the coffee machine, police also located a 60-inch TV, loud speakers, security cameras, and various other items.

All of these items were later returned to the church.

The Nanaimo RCMP Community Response Unit continues to hold individuals, such as Raines, and other criminals in our community,” said O’Brien.

Raines next court appearance is scheduled for sometime in January of 2022.

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Victoria Buzz Staffhttps://www.victoriabuzz.com
Your inside source for Greater Victoria happenings. Established in 2012.

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