BEAR Unit arrest individual in connection to multiple HVAC copper theft incidents

Members of the Greater Sudbury Police Service (GSPS) Break Enter and Robbery (BEAR) have arrested and charged a 44-year-old individual in connection with a series of copper thefts and mischief incidents targeting commercial heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) units throughout the city.

Between August 31 and September 20, 2026, police received numerous reports involving damaged commercial HVAC units and the theft of copper piping, wiring, coils, and other components from businesses and organization across Greater Sudbury. The incidents occurred at multiple locations, including businesses along Notre Dame Avenue, places of worship, the Sudbury District Library, the Sudbury Curling Club, and a local medical office.

The extensive investigation involved the review of surveillance footage from numerous locations. Through investigative efforts, officers identified a suspect who was repeatedly observed at or near several of the crime scenes. CCTV footage captured the suspect wearing distinctive clothing and footwear, travelling by bicycle, and pulling a red carrier with reflective siding. In one incident, the suspect was observed actively dismantling an HVAC unit and removing copper components.

As a result of the investigation, 44-year-old, Ryan Jewell of Greater Sudbury, was arrested on September 22, 2026. During a search conducted incident to arrest, officers seized a quantity of suspected fentanyl and a tool believed to have been used to access HVAC units during the commission of the offences.

The total damage associated with these incidents is currently estimated to be between $400,000 and $445,000. Investigators anticipate this figure may increase as affected businesses continue to obtain repair and replacement estimates.

Ryan Jewell has been charged with the following offences under the Criminal Code of Canada:

• Theft Under $5,000 x11
• Mischief Over $5,000 x10
• Mischief Under $5,000 x4
• Possession of a Schedule I Substance (Fentanyl)
• Possession of Break-In Instruments

Ryan Jewell was held in custody overnight and will attend Bail court today, September 23, 2026.

The investigation remains ongoing. Investigators continue to work toward identifying and locating additional individuals believed to have been involved in some of the incidents. Anyone with information related to these occurrences is asked to contact police.

Anyone with information can contact the Greater Sudbury Police Service at 705-675-9171 or provide information anonymously through Sudbury Rainbow Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at www.sudburycrimestoppers.com