Tuesday afternoon a break-in suspect was arrested believed responsible for the second floor attacks in the Cadboro Bay area.
At about 2:30pm on Tuesday, a break and enter suspect was stopped by Saanich Police patrol officers and arrested on Cordova Bay road.
The arrest came at the end of a lengthy and sophisticated operation by members of the Saanich Police Street Crime Unit and the Regional Crime Unit. Assistance was also provided by the RCMP and Oak Bay police.
The investigation began in June and included a lengthy surveillance operation by members of the Saanich Police Street Crime Unit and Regional Crime Unit. While under surveillance just prior to his arrest, the suspect was seen to commit offences in the Oak Bay area by officers.
As part of the investigation, a search warrant was executed late Tuesday evening by members of the Saanich Police Street Crime Unit in the Elk Lake area of the municipality. Items taken included TV’s, small electronics, jewellery tools and other household goods.
Evidence recovered during the search conclusively linked the suspect to multiple break-ins in Oak Bay, Central Saanich, Saanich and Colwood. The suspect is believed responsible for the second floor attacks at high end homes in the Ten Mile Point, Cadboro Bay and the Oak Bay areas over the summer.
Charges including six counts of Break and Enter to a Dwelling House have been sworn. Charged is Christopher Lee Schwartz, a 41 year old Saanich resident. Up to 35 other break and enters are being investigated.
Schwartz was at large on a recognizance of bail and undertaking for other offences at the time of his arrest. He has been held in custody to appear before a provincial court judge today.
Of note a 55” TV still in the box was recovered. It is believed to have come from a home in the Oak Bay area. If this sounds like your television, please contact the Saanich Police and ask for Cst. Carmena.
11-22487