FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. – A 29-year-old Redford Township man was arraigned Sunday morning on charges in the theft of a Salvation Army kettle in Farmington Hills.
Eric Joseph Heineman was charged with possession of heroin and larceny under $200.
READ: Farmington Hills officers donate after thief steals Salvation Army kettle
The kettle was stolen Friday around 5 p.m. at the Walgreens near Eight Mile Road and Grand River Avenue.
Farmington Hills police acted on a tip from Christopher Koernke who located the suspect Saturday evening walking on Grand River Avenue in Redford Township.
"The insignia stood out," Koernke said. "We are like, 'Oh my God, that is the same hoodie that was on the news."
The man had on the same black hooded sweatshirt with the unique logo on the back.
Koernke was with his girlfriend Jennifer Rutledge when they saw him and called police.
"We decided to start following him until the police showed up," Koernke said.
Farmington Hills police made the arrest at a Subway restaurant.
"Salvation Army money helps a lot of people eat this time of year and get toys for families," Rutledge said. "They do a lot of good."
He was given a $5,500 cash bond.
Heineman is expected in court again at 8:30 a.m. Wednesday.