-Police Chief Tyson Kerr, Sterling Police Department
In October of 2023, the Sterling Police Department became aware and began investigating a series of retail thefts occurring at the Sterling Home Depot store, committed by several suspects working as a team. Over the course of up to a year, reportedly stole large numbers of items consisting mostly of expensive power tools. In a 5-week period, the same suspects reportedly stole nearly $10,000 worth of merchandise. An intensive investigation was initiated and at least 3 suspects were identified by the investigating Officers.
On 11/03/23, Sterling Police Officers executed a search warrant at a residence in the 100 block of Belair Circle in Logan County, just outside the city limits. As a result, thousands of dollars in stolen merchandise, approximately 1700 Fentanyl pills (blues), 101 grams of Methamphetamine, and nearly $50,000 in
cash were seized from the home. The street value of the narcotics is valued at more than $10,000.
Officers obtained an arrest warrant for Bart Alan Baney (12/27/82) of Sterling for Theft $5,000 - $20,000 a class 5 felony. Mr. Baney was taken into custody by Sterling Police Officers in Sterling on 11/03/23 without incident at a residence in Sterling.
An arrest warrant was also obtained for Nip Ha (01/24/83) of Sterling, for the following charges. Mr. Ha was taken into custody on 11/4/2023 and is being held at the Logan County Justice Center on a $100,000 cash bond.
Charges include the following:
1. Unlawful distribution C.R.S. 18-18-405(2)(a)(I)(d) (DF1)
2. Special Offender C.R.S. 18-18-407 (DF1)
3. Theft $5000 - $20,000 C.R.S. 18-18-401(2)(g) (F5)
4. Conspiracy C.R.S. 18-2-201 (F6)
An arrest warrant for a third suspect is pending, as officers continue to investigate this with additional arrests expected.
Chief Kerr states, “the Sterling Police Department aggressively and actively investigates all instances of organized retail theft, illegal drug activity, and all other crimes that victimize our businesses and community members. The Sterling Police Department appreciates the cooperation of our local business
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce estimates $68,891,475,371 in goods are stolen from retailers
across the country annually. This was equal to 1.47% of all sales, and equated to theft of $214 per capita nationwide.
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