Stolen Salvation Army toys recovered

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TORONTO, Nov. 25 (UPI) -- Most of the $2 million worth of toys and other goods stolen from the Salvation Army in Toronto have been found in a warehouse west of the city, police said.

News that an inside job had resulted in the theft of donated new toys, cribs, food and baby strollers emerged Wednesday, although police had been investigating for more than a week before, the Toronto Star reported.

Acting on a tip, police found the bulk of the stolen items in a warehouse in Brampton, northwest of Toronto, the Toronto Sun said.

Detective Sgt. Jim Gotell said the items were stacked high on 146 pallets that required three tractor trailers to transport back to a police warehouse, Gotell said.

No arrests were made, but Gotell said the recovery of the goods was only the first part of the investigation.

Detective said early indications are the items were stolen from the Salvation Army over a two-year period and likely were meant to be resold.

Salvation Army Maj. John Murray said there was no expectation of getting the goods back in time for the coming Christmas season.

"The Salvation Army is under no illusions that the recovered toys can be returned to us soon, as it appears likely they will be required as evidence in any criminal court proceedings that arise," Murray said.