STURBRIDGE — In a collaborative law enforcement effort, two men were arrested on Jan. 24 for a series of explosives-related property damages across multiple towns.
The investigation began when Sturbridge Police responded to a call about a damaged mailbox on New Boston Rd. in December.
Explosives were determined to be the cause of the damage, prompting the Sturbridge Police to seek assistance from the Massachusetts State Police Fire & Explosion Investigation Unit, assigned to the State Fire Marshal’s Office.
As the investigation expanded, authorities uncovered several similar incidents of property damage involving explosives in neighboring communities.
A joint task force was formed, comprising the Sturbridge Police, Brookfield Police, Holland Police, the Monson Police, and State Police.
Through diligent investigative work, arrest warrants were issued for Nathan Asselin, 19, of Sturbridge, and Camron Lamarche, 19, of Southbridge.
The suspects were apprehended without incident and face charges for possession and use of destructive devices, placing an explosive device, vandalism, and additional offenses.
Both Asselin and Lamarche were arraigned in Dudley District Court on the day of their arrest.
The successful resolution of this case was attributed to the cooperative efforts of all agencies involved.
Chief Dessert of the Sturbridge Police issued a statement commending the investigators for their exemplary work in ensuring community safety.
