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Norwood Police have arrested a Kentucky resident suspected of stealing firearms after breaking into a local firearms shop on Sunday night, announced Norwood Police Chief Christopher Padden on Monday, May 18.
The suspect, 33-year-old Aaron Woodrum of Kentucky, is believed to have visited Liberty Ordnance Supply, located on Access Road in Norwood, several days before the break-in.
On Sunday, May 17, around 11:42 p.m., Norwood Police responded to the firearms shop after the business owner, who was monitoring surveillance cameras, reported observing someone inside the store, removing firearms and ammunition. Surveillance video showed a suspect wearing a dark, hooded sweatshirt, mask, and gloves, taking firearms from display cases.
Responding officers established a perimeter around the area, and requested additional assistance. Massachusetts State Police with their K-9 unit and Hingham Police responded, said Norwood Police in a press release.
Upon arriving at the firearms shop, police observed damage to the building that indicated a forced entry. Police searched the building and the area, and State Trooper Timothy Malo and K-9 Ramon, with Norwood officers, tracked the suspect to the backyard of a Neponset Street residence. There, investigators recovered stolen firearms and clothing which they believe was worn during the break-in. Investigators reviewing the evidence identified the suspect as Mr. Woodrum.
On Monday, May 18, officers responded to an unrelated incident, for a complaint about a person refusing to leave a local hotel. Upon arrival, officers identified that person as Mr. Woodrum. They took him into custody based on the evidence developed in investigating the break-in to the firearms shop the previous night.
Police are charging Mr. Woodrum with breaking and entering a firearm distributor, breaking and entering a building during nighttime with intent to commit a felony, larceny of a firearm (four counts), larceny under $1,200, and vandalizing property (two counts). Investigators believe additional charges may be filed.
“This arrest was the result of a coordinated effort by our patrol officers, detectives, Massachusetts State Police personnel and assisting K-9 teams,” said Chief Padden. “The rapid response overnight, combined with strong investigative work, allowed officers to quickly identify and apprehend a suspect while also recovering the stolen firearms. We are grateful to our local and state law enforcement partners for their assistance,” he said.
As the investigation continues, anyone who may have information regarding Mr. Woodrum’s activities in the days leading up to the break-in are asked to contact the Norwood Police Department at 781-440-5100.