A Gravenhurst man recently admitted his part in the theft of two snowmobiles from a Bracebridge resident.
Appearing recently in a Bracerbidge courtroom, Jamie Walla, 52, pleaded guilty to theft over $5,000 and breaching court orders.
Court heard that on Jan. 22, 2002, the Bracebridge OPP became aware of a theft that had occurred on Jan. 18 at an industrial property on Keith Road in Bracebridge. Video footage revealed a pick-up truck had come to the property in the early morning hours of Jan. 18 and stolen a generator, radio and gasoline from a trailer on the property. The truck returned some time later the same night and two 2022 Ski-Doo 600RS race sleds were stolen. The total value of the thefts was pegged at $38,350.
Following an investigation, the police were able to obtain a search warrant for one of the suspect’s homes. Inside they found the custom decals from the snowmobiles, as well as the helmets and snowmobiling suits used during the crime. Eventually, all of the missing items were recovered, although $2,950 worth of damage was done to the snowmobiles.
Walla was eventually identified as one of the suspects. He was already wanted on a number of outstanding charges at the time.
Court heard that Walla has many previous convictions, including thefts.
He was ultimately sentenced to six months in jail and 12 months of probation. He was also ordered to pay $1,475 in restitution.
Don’t miss out on Doppler!
Sign up here to receive our email digest with links to our most recent stories.
Local news in your inbox three times per week!
Click here to support local news
Join the discussion: