Man arrested in theft of Salvation Army kettle

Farmington Hills — Police said Sunday they have arrested a 29-year-old Redford Township man in the theft last week of a Salvation Army donation kettle .

Eric Joseph Heineman was arrested Saturday at a Redford Township business on a tip from a citizen who had viewed media reports of the theft. Heineman is charged with possession of heroin and larceny under $200. He was arraigned by Magistrate Michael Sawicky Sunday and given a $5,500 cash/ surety bond.

Heineman’s next court appearance will be at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday in Farmington Hills 47th District Court.

A witness told police they saw a man snatch up the red kettle, including its stand, outside a Walgreens on Grand River and walk away. The theft occurred shortly before 5 p.m. as the volunteer bell ringer had stepped inside the business briefly.

The stand was later found behind an area business.

The Farmington Hills police department heard of the theft and donated $248, inspiring an anonymous donor to chip in an additional $300 for the Salvation Army.

mmartindale@detroitnews.com

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