Suspect In Salvation Army Red Kettle Theft Arrested

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This story has been updated

FARMINGTON HILLS, MI - Tips from the public led to the apprehension of Eric Joseph Heineman, 29, of Redford Township, who is accused of stealing a Salvation Army donation kettle from a local Walgreens store Friday.

The Farmington Hills Police Department said in a statement Sunday that Heineman was arrested Saturday after receiving a tip from a citizen who saw media coverage of the theft.

Heineman was charged with possession of heroin and larceny under $200. He was arraigned in 47th District Court by Magistrate Michael Sawicky, who set bond at $5,500 cash/surety.

His next court appearance is 8:30 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 16, also in 47th District Court.

Patch’s Earlier Report

A crime of opportunity was met with generosity in Farmington Hills Friday afternoon.

A Salvation Army bell ringer briefly stepped inside a Walgreens store at 27750 Grand River about 4:45 p.m. Friday, when the thief took the donation kettle and stand and walked away from the scene, Farmington hills police said in a news release.

The kettle and the unknown amount of money have not been recovered.

After hearing of the theft and what it would mean for the individuals provided food, shelter and social services by the Salvation Army through its biggest fundraiser of the year, the officers and others working the police department’s afternoon shift raised $248.

After hearing of the generosity, an anonymous donor kicked in an additional $300, bringing the total to $548.

In the meantime, police still want to catch the thief.

A witness to the theft described the suspect as a white male in his early 20s, about 6 feet tall with a thin build. He was wearing a blue hooded sweatshirt and khaki pants. A photo was captured on surveillance video from a neighboring business.

Anyone with information about the suspect’s identity is asked to contact the Farmington Hills Police Department Command Desk at (248) 871-2610.