A Rimbey man was among six people charged with trafficking in stolen goods after a multi-jurisdictional RCMP investigation discovered a “chop shop” in central Alberta.
In September, the RCMP investigated a steady increase of motor vehicle thefts, break and enters, other property related crimes — as well as a high number of flight from police in rural areas between Rocky Mountain House, Rimbey, Breton, Thorsby and Drayton Valley.
Upon executing two search warrants in the Breton detachment area, a total of 19 vehicles, three watercraft, one motorcycle, two snowmobiles, one all terrain vehicle and two vehicle engines were recovered. Police report these vehicles were in various stages of “tear down” and evidence supports a chop shop operation was dismantled as result of this investigation.
A small group of suspects were linked to a number of these offences after an investigation was carried out that involved Alberta RCMP Air Services; Police Dog Service; Auto Theft Unit; and the Western Alberta District Rural Crime Reduction Unit, as well as Rimbey, Breton and Thorsby detachments.
According to the RCMP, five out of the six suspects face a combined total of 98 charges.
Three people from Buck Lake, Alta., and resident of Drayton Valley stand jointly charged with multiple offences, including possession of property over, as well as under, $5,000, mischief, possession of a prohibited weapon, careless use of a firearm and possession of a controlled substance.
They are to appear in Breton Provincial Court on Nov. 10.
As well, a fourth suspect from Buck Lake was charged with possession of property under $5,000.
As well, a 34-year-old Rimbey man was charged with dangerous operation of a vehicle, flight from a peace officer, fraudulent concealment, and possession of property over $5,000. This suspect is not in custody.
RCMP are seeking Jason Roy and a warrant for his arrest has been obtained.
Roy is described as having a light complexion, being 5-foot-4 tall, and 225 lbs, with blond hair and blue eyes.
Anyone with information should please call the Rimbey RCMP detachment at 403-843-2224.
The RCMP urges the public and business owners to report any criminal or suspicious activity. If you see a crime in progress, dial 911. If you wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or online at www.P3Tips.com.