Police: Man stole, sold toilet flushers

24-year-old arrested, may be connected to 17 or more thefts

Duval County Sheriff's Office booking photo of James That Ton

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Ten days after flushers began disappearing from businesses' restrooms, Jacksonville police arrested a 24-year-old man who was caught trying to sell one of the stolen items to a metal recycler.

According to the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office, officers began investigating Oct. 27 after getting reports from numerous Jacksonville businesses that had flushers stolen off their public restroom toilets. 

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The flushers are valued at $300-$800.

On Tuesday, the McDonald's at 8570 Argyle Forest Boulevard reported a theft. Video surveillance was obtained of the suspect walking in and out of the restroom when the theft occurred. Another police officer was able to identify the suspect reference a previous unrelated theft arrest.

On Thursday James That Ton was taken into custody when he tried to sell the flusher stolen from the McDonald's at a metal recycling service.

JSO is currently working 17 cases Ton is believed to be involved and the Clay County Sheriff's Office is also working toilet flusher thefts. 

Ton is currently being charged in Duval County with grand theft, dealing in stolen property and false verification of ownership.

Police believe there are many more victims who may be missing toilet flushers and have not reported it to police. Anyone who has been a victim in Duval County is asked to contact the Jacksonville Sheriff's Office at 904-630-0500.