Ottawa police charge man after string of 25 thefts in west end

The Ottawa Police Service West Criminal Investigation Section has arrested and charged a man after a lengthy investigation into shoplifting thefts in the west end.

During the five-month-long investigation which began in 2023, police were in contact with business owners in the area and have been trying to find the suspect responsible for 25 separate thefts.

On Feb. 13, 2024, investigators along with patrol officers, tactical and canine units executed a warrant on the suspects home after he displayed what looked like a firearm at one of the theft incidents. They were arrested without incident.

49-year-old James Mason of Ottawa has been charged with:

• 27 counts of theft under $5,000
• Conspiracy to commit an indictable offence
• Uttering threats of death or bodily harm
• Carrying a concealed weapon
• Use of an imitation firearm to commit an indictable offence
• Possession of a weapon dangerous to public peace
• Two counts of breach of probation
• Disobey a lawful court order

Mason is in police custody as the investigation continues for police.