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Thieves make off with $20, Postmaster Commends Local Teen

Mike Gagnon

The OPP are still investigating a break-in at the Ripley Canada Post branch, where thieves forced entry and were able to make off with the contents of a change drawer. Approximately $20 in total was taken.

“It concerns me greatly.” said Postmaster Karen Elliot, Wednesday morning. . “I’d like to hope that something can be found, evidence or something.”

The police report details that the break-in occurred sometime between February 16^th and 18^th at the post office located at 21 Jessie St. in Ripley.

“They came in the front door and probably used a crowbar to wedge open the door” said Elliot.

There was damage to the front door of the post office, specifically to the lock and door frame. There is no estimate on the cost of damages yet.

Elliot also thanked a local teen who discovered the damage. She says that the teen had come to the post office to see if it was open on “Family Day” and discovered the damage to the door. The 13 year old male immediately called the OPP himself to report the break-in.

“I’d like to publicly commend him. It was very, very good of him.” said Elliott.

The teen and his family were unable to be reached for comment. Privacy laws prevent identifying him without permission, so for now he will remain an anonymous local hero.

Aside from the front door there were no damages or reckless vandalism within the building, something that Elliott is thankful for.

“They never harmed anything in here, which we are very grateful for.” says Elliott. “…we didn’t have to come in to a mess. Everything was not touched.”

Elliott says that she has been in contact with her superiors at Canada Post and that although they have not offered a public statement, they have been a great help to the branch since the crime occurred.

“I would love to see that happen.” Elliott said when asked if she’d like to see the culprits apprehended. “There have been a lot (of break-ins) in this area. There’s been a lot of repeats, which is a concern.”

The OPP are asking that anyone who may have witnessed the crime or seen any strange persons loitering around the post office on the weekend of February 16^th to 18^th to call Crime Stoppers at 1-888-222-TIPS.

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Sources:

South Bruce OPP Press Release (See attached)

Interview with Karen Elliot, Postmaster, Canada Post, Ripley Branch

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