Three employees of Falls pawn shop arrested

Niagara Regional Police have arrested three people following an investigation into the trafficking of stolen property.

Police began an investigation in April and executed a search warrant Wednesday at Niagara Pawnbrokers in Niagara Falls.

Police said three employees of the Main Street business were arrested on site.

Hai M. Tran, 42, of Brampton was arrested and charged with possession of property obtained by crime more than $5,000; possession of proceeds of crime more than $5,000; two counts of extortion; trafficking in property obtained by crime more than $5,000; and obstructing a peace officer.

Tai H. Nguyen, 64, of Niagara Falls and Dao Kim Nguyen, 63, of Niagara Falls were both arrested and charged with possession of property obtained by crime more than $5,000, possession of proceeds of crime more than $5,000, and extortion.

Police said all three accused are known to have connections to the pawn industry in Brampton, Hamilton and Toronto.

Detectives seized more than $30,000 worth of property believed to be stolen. The property included items such as jewelry, power tools, bikes and electronics. The seized property is believed to have been stolen during thefts and break-and-enters from around Niagara.

Detectives also seized more than $40,000 in currency believed to be proceeds of crime.

Police said detectives are trying to return the property to its rightful owners, but their efforts are being hampered by no identifying ownership information, just the owner’s initials, and the property not being reported to the police at the time of the theft.

Police said inquiries relating to the stolen property in the investigation can be directed to 905-688-4111, ext. 9564, or by email to 9564@nrps.on.ca.

Detectives continue investigating trafficking of stolen property in Niagara Falls as it relates to pawn and second-hand stores.

Police said those who are victims of theft and who locate their stolen property in a store should not negotiate making payment with store staff, but rather contact police.

Police said anyone with more information, or believes they may be a victim, can contact detectives at 905-688-4111, ext. 9276.