Man charged over theft of $40,000 of goods

Police have charged a Drummond Cove man over a string of recent thefts on farming properties across Geraldton, Chapman Valley and Northampton.

Police allege the 28-year-old entered numerous properties in the area between August 5 and 14 and took tools, power tools, vehicles and other property valued at about $40,000.

Police attended bushland near Northampton at about 8am yesterday after receiving information from the public regarding suspicious activity in the area.

Police say a man was found in the bushes.

A motor vehicle that had been reported stolen was allegedly found nearby containing further stolen items.

The man was refused bail and has been charged with two counts of burglary, two counts of stealing and one count of stealing a motor vehicle.

He is due to appear in Geraldton Magistrate’s Court at a later date.

Police say investigations are continuing.

Earlier today, police issued a statement reminding residents to keep track of serial numbers on their tools and thanked the public for their help.

“This is a timely reminder to ensure you record serial numbers of tools and other items, as without this, police find it difficult if not impossible to return your property,” the statement said.

“Geraldton and Northampton police would like to thank the public with their assistance regarding this matter.”