Multiple stolen vehicles and trailers were found as a result of a search warrant executed by Tofield RCMP and the Eastern Alberta District Rural Crime Reduction Unit (EDA RCRU) on July 7.
Tofield RCMP were taking part in proactive patrols in Beaver County on July 6 when they noticed a fifth wheel trailer spotted on a property known to be associated with criminal activity. Further investigation led to the conclusion that the trailer had been stolen.
Officers attended the Range Road 170 property the day after to execute a search warrant, during which they found the fifth wheel trailer in addition to two stolen utility trucks and a utility trailer.
Tofield RCMP noted that the stolen property had come from many different jurisdictions in Alberta.
Prior to the execution of the search warrant, the RCMP used a Remotely Piloted Aircraft System, spotting a male driving a truck that was later determined to also be stolen from Edmonton.
The drone had also spotted another male entering a vehicle on the property and leaving. Officers conducted a traffic stop where it was learned that the male was a suspended driver in Alberta. The male was arrested, and the vehicle was seized for 30 days.
41-year-old Edmonton resident Brandon Russell Hunt has been charged with possession of property obtained by crime over $5000, operation of a motor vehicle while prohibited and three counts of failure to comply with a release order.
Hunt has been brought before a Justice of the Peace and was remanded into custody. He is scheduled to appear in court today.
“The on-going efforts and dedication of the Tofield RCMP to address rural property crime are exemplified by this successful recovery” said Cpl. Stephen Cunningham, Acting Tofield RCMP Detachment Commander. “The diligence of our officers demonstrates the extent to which we are willing to go to provide great service to our communities and combat the issues that impact our residents the most.
