Man arrested in connection with multiple thefts from cars

WINDSOR POLICE NEWS RELEASE

Case #: 26-300932; 26-31225; 26-301420; 26-301484; 26-31289

Man arrested in connection with multiple thefts from cars

The Windsor Police Service has arrested a 31-year-old man in connection with a series of thefts from motor vehicles across the city.

Between February 21 and March 26, 2026, the suspect is alleged to have entered several vehicles throughout Windsor, stealing various items and causing damage in the process. In two of the incidents, the suspect also attempted to sell the stolen property on an online resale platform.

Shortly before 4 a.m. on March 26, 2026, patrol officers responded to a theft in progress in the 2700 block of Armstrong Avenue. The homeowner observed a male suspect removing items from their vehicle. When confronted, the suspect fled the area on foot.

Members of the Windsor Police Target Base Unit were conducting surveillance nearby and were able to locate and arrest the suspect a short distance away.

Through investigation, officers were able to link the suspect to several other thefts in the city.

Ethan Michael Bastow, 31, has been charged with the following offences in relation to five separate incidents:

•    Theft under $5,000 (x 4) 

•    Possession of property obtained by crime (x 4) 

•    Mischief under $5,000 

Some of the stolen property has been recovered and returned to its rightful owners.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Windsor Police Service Target Base Unit at 519-255-6700, ext. 4350. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Windsor & Essex County Crime Stoppers at 519-258-8477 (TIPS) or online at www.catchcrooks.com.