A Sticky Situation: The Great Maple Syrup Heist

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In 2012, one of the largest thefts in Canadian history didn’t involve gold, diamonds, or priceless art. Instead, thieves pulled off a crime so unusual it sounds almost unbelievable. They stole millions of dollars worth of maple syrup.

In this episode, we dive into the story of the Great Canadian Maple Syrup Heist, when criminals managed to steal nearly $18 million worth of syrup from a warehouse that was part of Quebec’s strategic maple syrup reserve.

Join us as we discuss our favorite breakfast foods and break down the details of this sweet crime, the investigation that followed, and the surprising lessons behind Canada’s most infamous heist.

References:

“Maple Syrup Industry” The Canadian Encyclopedia (2006)

“Great Canadian Maple Syrup Heist The Canadian Encyclopedia (2022)

“Canadian Maple Syrup Heist: A $30 Million Theft Unveiled” Maple Terroir (2024)

“With burner phones and $200k in hidden cash, plot to steal maple syrup had look of a major drug deal” National Post (2016)

“The Great Maple Syrup Heist: How a Ragtag Group of Thieves in Canada Stole $18 Million Worth of Maple Syrup” All That Is Interesting (2025)

“Richard Vallieres Was Behind the Great Canadian Maple Syrup Heist– Where Is He Now?” Districtify (2024)

“How Maple Syrup Thieves in Canada Once Made History With A Theft Worth Millions of Dollars” NDTV Food (2025)