Brampton Woman Arrested and Charged in Connection with Ottawa Mall Thefts
Ottawa police have arrested and charged a 49-year-old woman from Brampton following a series of theft incidents at the Bayshore Shopping Centre. The arrest comes after an investigation that began earlier this month and has led to the recovery of a significant quantity of stolen merchandise.
Details of the Arrest and Investigation
According to police reports, officers were called to the Bayshore Shopping Centre on January 20, 2026, following reports of a theft in progress. The suspect reportedly fled the scene in a vehicle, which was later located by authorities near the 1200 block of Carling Avenue.
Police executed search warrants on both the vehicle and a location where they believed the suspect was staying. During these searches, investigators discovered what they described as "a large quantity of stolen merchandise" though specific details about the items were not released to the public.
Charges and Connection to Previous Incidents
The Brampton woman now faces two counts of theft under $5,000. Police have indicated that these charges are not limited to the recent Bayshore incident but also cover "other high-value thefts reported in August 2025." This suggests the investigation has uncovered connections to multiple theft incidents spanning several months.
The Ottawa Police Service emphasized that their investigation remains ongoing. Authorities are continuing to examine evidence and follow leads related to these theft cases.
Public Assistance Requested
Police are asking anyone with additional information about these incidents to contact the West Criminal Investigations Unit at 613-236-1222, extension 2666. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-8477 or visiting their website.
The case highlights ongoing efforts by Ottawa police to address retail theft in the city's shopping centers. As the investigation continues, authorities remind the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity in commercial areas.
