Alberta RCMP have laid charges relating to rural oil and gas lease site break and enters.
The charges follow an initiative aimed at addressing concerns around copper wire theft in the province. It began in October and was a collaboration between Alberta RCMP along with community and industry partners.
Police say techniques used during the initiative included the use of a High Altitude Surveillance Plane (HASP), plain clothes investigation units, and the use of bait equipment.
A 39-year-old man (Peter Walker) and a 48-year-old man (Douglas MacQuarrie) face charges for breaking and entering, along with mischief under $5,000 in the Olds area. In this case, RCMP note the damages and losses were initially under $5,000 but further investigation revealed the costs to be near $100,000.
A 60-year-old man (Lyle MacLachlan) is charged with breaking and entering, mischief under $5,000 and possession of break in tools in the Red Deer area.
Also in the Red Deer County area, a 36-year-old man (Dylan Goodman) faces charges including breaking and entering, mischief under $5,000, and possession of break in tools.
Police highlighted charges being laid against a handful of other individuals in other locations including the Rimbey area, and the Killam Forestburg area as part of the initiative.
Mounties pass along tips to help ensure the safety of your property including laser engraving your metal, securing your property with fences and cameras, questioning suspicious sellers, and reporting all suspicious activities.
Contact your local RCMP detachment or CRIMESTOPPERS if you have any information about crimes in your community.
