Brunswick Man Arrested on Theft by Deception Charge After Snowblower Incident

January 12, 2026 — by Scanner Alerts Media

BRUNSWICK, Maine — Brunswick Police have arrested a Topsham man in connection with a theft by deception case involving a snowblower that was allegedly taken under the pretense of repair and later returned in non-working condition.

According to a media release from the Brunswick Police Department, the incident occurred on January 10, 2026, and involved arrangements made through the NextDoor app. Police said Benjamin Jacques, 44, of Topsham, was arrested and charged with Theft by Deception (Class C).

The investigation began after a Brunswick resident contacted police to report concerns related to a snowblower repair. Authorities said Jacques had made arrangements with the victim to repair the snowblower and picked it up from the victim’s residence in Brunswick. Approximately 12 days later, the snowblower was returned, and the victim was charged for the repairs.

After the machine was returned, the victim reported that it was not functioning properly. Further review determined that the snowblower returned to the victim was not the same machine that had originally been picked up for repair. When contacted by the victim, Jacques reportedly denied the allegation.

Brunswick Police said the victim then provided serial number information to officers, which allowed police to confirm that the snowblower returned was not the victim’s original machine. Based on that information, officers continued their investigation.

On January 10, 2026, Brunswick Police located Jacques at his residence, where they were able to recover the complainant’s original snowblower. The machine was subsequently returned to the victim.

Jacques was arrested and charged with Theft by Deception (Class C). Police said he posted $300 cash bail and is scheduled to appear in West Bath District Court on February 3, 2026.

In the release, Brunswick Police cautioned the public about using apps and public forums to obtain repair or other services. Officials emphasized the importance of maintaining records and documentation, including serial numbers, when arranging transactions involving personal property.

No additional charges were announced, and the case remains pending in court. As with all criminal matters, the charge is an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

Credit: Brunswick Police Departmen