(WELLINGTON NORTH TWP, ON) – The Wellington County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) arrest and charge two individuals in connection with a break and enter within Mount Forest.
On October 29, 2025, at approximately 8:30 a.m., the Wellington County OPP were dispatched to an active break and enter which occurred at a local vacant residence on Birmingham Street West within Mount Forest.
As police arrived on scene, and as a result of the investigation, Ashley HOTCHKISS, a 33-year-old of Arthur is charged under the Criminal Code with:
- Break, enter a place – with intent to commit indictable offence
- Enter premises when entry prohibited
- Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000 – in Canada
- Fail to comply with Probation Order (two counts)
The accused was held in custody pending a bail hearing.
Additionally, Paul SMYTH, a 49-year-old of Mount Forest is charged under the Criminal Code with:
- Break, enter a place – with intent to commit indictable offence
- Possession of a schedule 1 substance – methamphetamine
- Possession of a schedule 1 substance – cocaine
The accused has since been released from police custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice – Guelph on December 5, 2025.
The Wellington OPP is requesting anyone with information to call 1-888-310-1122.
Should you wish to be anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers Guelph Wellington at www.csgw.tips or toll free at 1-800-222-TIPS or 8477. If your information leads to an arrest, you may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $2,000.
