Police: Ohio sporting goods stores in theft ring

MASSILLON, Ohio (AP) -- Authorities say they believe two northeast Ohio sporting goods stores were a part of a theft ring that stole tens of thousands of dollars in merchandise from other area retailers and resold the items for a reduced price.

Massillon police say they seized hunting and fishing gear, ammunition, illegal weapons and tools on Tuesday from The Trading Post in Massillon and Ohio Outdoor Sports in nearby Canton Township.

Authorities started investigating when police in Stark County's Jackson Township received theft reports last spring from Lowe's, Home Depot, Gander Mountain and Dick's Sporting Goods.

Police say the thefts have been going on for six years.

Detectives searched the sporting goods stores on Tuesday. No one has been charged.