Barrie police seek to identify suspect accused of theft, fraud at Cabela’s

Barrie police are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a suspect accused of several thefts and frauds from Cabela’s in the city’s south end.

According to police, on June 29, officers were called to Cabela’s on Concert Way in Barrie after receiving a report of a theft and fraud.

According to surveillance footage provided to police, the suspect was seen at the store on June 24 just after 3 p.m., and had concealed two hunting knives on his person and discarded the packaging on a shelf nearby.

Police say the suspect was seen switching several price tags on hammocks, and left the store after paying $29.99 for a hammock which was originally priced at $99.99.

Officers say later that day at around 5 p.m., the man returned to the store and allegedly switched the price tags on two more hammocks, this time paying $29.99 for a hammock priced at $129.99.

According to police, the suspect returned to the store on June 26. Officers say during this visit he allegedly stole several hunting knives and purchased two more hammocks after swapping the price tags.

On June 29, police say the man returned to the store once again just after 1 p.m., and was seen switching pricing tags on hammocks and various pieces of clothing. Police say during this visit, the man was recognized by loss prevention staff.

According to police, when staff approached the suspect, he fled the area in a black SUV.

Police are now looking for a man, around 43 to 45 years, with a heavy build. He is approximately six feet tall, and was seen wearing a baseball hat, red long sleeved shirt, light coloured shorts and sandals.

According to police, the investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to please contact Constable Claus of the Barrie Police Service at 705-725-7025 ext. 2648 or at aclaus@barriepolice.ca. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.p3tips.com.