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Weapons and break-in tools seized by Ponoka RCMP during a traffic stop June 7. (Ponoka RCMP)
Weapons Seized

Ponoka RCMP arrest two Red Deer men, seize weapons and break-in tools

Jun 10, 2020 | 4:58 PM

Two men are facing charges after RCMP seized several weapons and break-in tools from a pair of vehicles in Ponoka on the weekend.

On June 7, at 12:50 a.m., Mounties patrolling Ponoka observed suspicious behaviour between people in two different vehicles. Police say males were seen to get into a truck and drive away.

A traffic stop was initiated at 67 Street and Highway 53 where officers noted what appeared to be break-in instruments in the vehicle.

The driver of the vehicle was arrested for possession of break-in instruments while the passenger was arrested on outstanding warrants out of Leduc.

A search of the vehicle led RCMP to seize a large amount of tools including bolt cutters, a crowbar, drills and other items associated with break-ins.

Also seized were numerous knives, an axe, bear spray, and a stolen, loaded .308 calibre rifle along with a case full of ammunition for the rifle, as well as various other items. The rifle was determined to be previously stolen out of Grande Prairie.

The second, unoccupied vehicle was searched with Mounties seizing knives, machetes and bolt cutters.

Kraig Robert Jacobi, 29, of Red Deer is charged with nine criminal charges including possession of a weapon obtained by crime, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose and four counts of failing to comply with a release condition.

Kyle Rasmussen, 29, of Red Deer is charged with eight criminal charges including three counts of fail to comply with a release order, possession of break-in instruments, and possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose.

Police say both accused had a judicial interim release hearing, with Jacobi remanded in custody for court on June 16. Rasmussen was released on several conditions with a court date of July 24.

“We intend to drive down crime in Ponoka with focused attention on suspicious activity and repeat offenders,” says Staff Sergeant Chris Smiley, Ponoka RCMP Detachment Commander, in a press release. “Our business is about crime reduction and crime prevention. We’re pleased to have secured a substantial amount of dangerous items during this traffic stop.”