Moorhead Police Department Announces Arrest and Recovery in Honor Flight Trailer Theft
The Moorhead Police Department has identified and arrested the suspect responsible for stealing the Veterans Honor Flight trailer and has recovered the trailer as part of a coordinated, multi-agency investigation.
The investigation began on August 4, when the Moorhead Police Department received a report that an enclosed trailer belonging to the Veterans Honor Flight of North Dakota and Minnesota had been stolen from north Moorhead. The trailer contained approximately $30,000 in Honor Flight apparel and equipment.
As part of the initial investigation, video of the theft was obtained and reviewed by MPD personnel, which lead to collaborating with other law enforcement agencies to initiate a regional search. Working closely with the Fargo Police Department and the Detroit Lakes Police Department, detectives used Flock license plate reader technology to generate investigative leads on the trailer’s locations and identify the suspect vehicle. The coordinated effort provided reliable information, ultimately leading detectives to identify the suspect and the location of the trailer.
On Sunday, August 9, officers arrested 74-year-old Robert Andert of Staples, Minnesota, at the Moorhead Law Enforcement Center. Andert was taken to the Clay County Jail and faces the following charges:
- Felony Motor Vehicle Theft
- Felony Theft Permanently Depriving Another of Property
- Felony Possess/Receive Stolen Property
- Felony First-Degree Damage to Property Over $1,000
The trailer has been recovered and returned to the Honor Flight organization. Detectives confirmed that while the trailer itself was intact, much of the property inside had been damaged or destroyed.
“The Veterans Honor Flight organization is an important part of our community, and we’re glad we could return their trailer and arrest the suspect. It is unfortunate we were not able to recover the property was inside the trailer. However, our detectives did excellent work to piece together the movements of the stolen trailer and identify the suspect,” said Chief Chris Helmick. “This case shows the impact of strong regional partnerships and effective technology in policing.”
This case highlights not only the commitment of the Moorhead Police Department, but also the value of collaboration among regional law enforcement agencies. As Flock cameras remain part of public dialogue, this incident shows how technology, when used in accordance with Minnesota state statue, can deliver investigative leads and support positive outcomes for the community.
The Moorhead Police Department extends its appreciation to the following agencies for their assistance and strong collaboration throughout this investigation: Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, Fargo Police Department, Detroit Lakes Police Department, Todd County Sheriff’s Office, Staples Police Department, Wadena County Sheriff’s Office, Wadena Police Department, Douglas County Sherriff's Office, and Alexandria Police Department.