Central Hastings OPP officers have arrested and charged an individual following an investigation into a series of thefts from vehicles in Stirling.
On the morning of Halloween Saturday, October 31, Central Hastings OPP received multiple reports of thefts from vehicles that occurred during the overnight hours in the areas of West Front Street and Church Street in the town, with investigators believing additional thefts may have occurred but had not yet been reported to police.
Officers worked closely with members of the community and conducted an extensive canvass of the area to obtain and review video surveillance and additional CCTV footage, which ultimately helped investigators identify a suspect.
On Sunday, November 1, 2026, officers received information that led investigators to a residence in Stirling. Police recovered a quantity of stolen property, including a laptop computer and other items reported stolen during the overnight thefts. Officers subsequently arrested a suspect without incident.
As a result of the investigation, 37-year-old Dereck Czaikowsky of Belleville, has been charged with:
Theft under $5,000
Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000
Trespassing at night
The accused was released from custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Belleville on February 4, 2027.
Several items believed to be stolen have been recovered. Investigators are working to identify and return property to its rightful owners. Anyone who believes they may have been a victim of these thefts and has not yet reported the incident is encouraged to contact the Central Hastings OPP.
The Central Hastings OPP would like to thank the residents of Stirling for their assistance and cooperation throughout the investigation. Community-provided surveillance footage and information were instrumental in advancing the investigation and identifying the individual responsible.
