Ep 5. The Maple Syrup Heist

In The Maple Syrup Heist, the fifth episode of Dirty Money's first season, the series turns its attention to a lesser known criminal enterprise: maple syrup theft.

The episode follows the investigation into one of the biggest heists in Canadian history, where nearly $18 million worth of maple syrup was stolen from a Quebec warehouse in 2011. The thieves had drilled into barrels of the sweet syrup and replaced it with water, managing to smuggle the stolen goods out of the warehouse without being detected.

Through interviews with law enforcement officials, journalists, and syrup producers, the episode delves into the complex world of maple syrup production and distribution, where prices are strictly regulated and producers face strict quotas. The syrup black market is driven by a desire for profits, and the episode explores the lengths some will go to make a quick buck.

The investigation into the heist leads to a group of men with ties to the Canadian maple syrup industry, including Avik Caron, who is arrested and charged with conspiracy to commit theft, conspiracy to traffic stolen goods, and fraud. The episode follows Caron's legal battle and eventual sentencing, providing insight into the Canadian legal system and the consequences of organized crime.

But The Maple Syrup Heist also highlights the impact of the crime on the local syrup producers, who suffered a loss of faith in the industry and had to navigate the new regulations put in place after the heist. The episode highlights the balance between regulation and the free market, and the consequences that can arise when that balance is upset.

Overall, The Maple Syrup Heist is a fascinating look into a lesser known criminal enterprise and the impact it had on the Canadian maple syrup industry. It provides insight into the complex world of syrup regulation and distribution, as well as the consequences of organized crime. The episode is a must-watch for fans of true crime and those interested in the impact of crime on niche industries.