On Wednesday, August 14, at around 3 a.m., the owners wrote in a Facebook post, “Two guys smashed the glass on our front door and stole our safe.” This happened at the Chocolate Frog Candy Shop on Highway 101. According to a witness who eventually identified the thieves’ vehicle, leading to an arrest at a local hotel, “the thieves stole the safe and hid it in the woods behind the property. While we were barricading the damaged door, the thieves came back and took the safe.”
Dan Clanton, owner of The Grill/Nokturnal (a local restaurant and bar), was on site helping with the repairs when he decided to check his own cameras that monitor Highway 101 in the Oceanlake district. He was able to identify the vehicle used in the theft, which ultimately led to the arrest of Oscar John McCrae Jr. Also allegedly involved but not arrested was Romelia Ramone.
According to the Lincoln City Police Department (LCPD) log, “A burglary suspect was reported in a Maroon Escalade at Starfish Manor, 2735 NW Inlet. Officers arrived in the area. The suspects retreated to the hotel and then went to the beach. A tracking dog was used in pursuit (unsuccessful – editorial addition). An unmarked (police) vehicle remained in the area. The suspect (McCrae) returned at 12:54 p.m. and was taken into custody at gunpoint. A felony warrant was confirmed by another state’s parole board for burglary in PV and a felony warrant was confirmed by Marion County. McCrae was charged with 2nd degree theft, 3rd degree escape and outstanding warrants with possible additional charges pending.”
While they were visibly stressed, the owners of the Chocolate Frog took to Facebook to lighten the mood a little: “Another chocolate lover couldn’t resist the temptation of a treat in the middle of the night! Please visit us during our business hours for the best experience!” was written under the photos of the suspect(s).
They also thanked
“Unfortunately, two guys smashed the glass on our front door at 3:30 am and stole our safe. Thankfully, Dan Clanton, a local business owner of The Grill, brought me the wood to board up our front door. Dan actually found the suspect’s vehicle at a local hotel and helped police arrest one of the two suspects. Dan is a great example of how to communicate and look out for one another.
We are so happy that the damage was only a few thousand dollars. The last 10 months have been so hard and this was the last thing we needed. Regardless, Team Frog will keep fighting!”
An opinion that was expressed with equal intensity throughout the comment section.
