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Red Deer RCMP recover multiple stolen properties and vehicles

Sep 7, 2022 | 4:33 PM

Red Deer RCMP Crime Reduction Team (CRT) say they have made several arrests and recovered stolen property over a one-week period, following police investigation.

On Aug. 25, 2022, Red Deer RCMP CRT state they were making pro-active patrols when a stolen vehicle was located, driven by a 34-year-old male from Red Deer. Subsequent investigation led to police seizing a shotgun, which they say had been altered, as well as methamphetamine, both located inside the vehicle. Charges have not yet been sworn, though he’s facing counts of Possession of stolen property, Possession of a controlled substance, and Possession of a firearm in a motor vehicle. The man has an October court date.

On Aug. 30, 2022, Red Deer RCMP CRT recount they identified a vehicle with a stolen licence plate attached, later launching an investigation and obtaining a search warrant in relation to a residence. Police arrested a Red Deer man, with the assistance of the RCMP Emergency Response Team (ERT) and Police Dog Service (PDS). The man, 37-year-old Justin Stead, was held in custody pending a hearing, and had previously been arrested and charged for similar offences in Dec. 2021 and Jan. 2022. For this incident, he faces three counts of Possession of stolen property over $5,000, and will appear in Red Deer provincial court on Sept. 14.

On Aug. 31, 2022, members of Red Deer RCMP CRT say they were again conducting pro-active patrols when they identified a stolen licence plate on a vehicle. Investigation later determined the truck was also reported stolen. They say two females were located in the vehicle with the female driver attempting to flee on foot. With the assistance of Red Deer RCMP PDS, CRT arrested both females. One count of Possession of stolen property over $5,000, and one of Possession of stolen property under $5,000 have been sworn against 21-year-old Tavia Robidoux of Sylvan Lake, who had other outstanding warrants. She appears in court next on Sept. 23. The second female was not charged.

Following a brief hearing, police say Robidoux was released to appear in court at a later date, but less than one hour later, on Sept. 1, she was again located allegedly driving a stolen vehicle. She was arrested and is currently in custody.

RCMP say these arrests are part of their ongoing efforts to reduce crime in Red Deer and are the result of intelligence led policing initiatives.

“Red Deer RCMP seeks to identify repeat offenders and conduct targeted enforcement initiatives, in an effort to reduce crime within our community,” said Sgt. Kay, who leads the Community Response Detail in the city. “Many offenders use stolen vehicles to commit other property crimes, such as shoplifting and breaking and entering. By conducting pro-active investigations and patrols, we aim to reduce the offences being committed in Red Deer. ”

The Red Deer RCMP says they would also like to remind the public that most vehicle thefts are preventable.

“Never leave your vehicle running with the keys in the ignition and always remember to lock your doors after exiting your vehicle. Whenever possible, park your vehicle in a garage or in a well-lit area and never leave personal belongings in plain sight,” said Sgt. Kay.

Motorists are being encouraged to attend this year’s AMA’s Fall Care Event, where Red Deer RCMP have partnered to hand out anti-theft screws designed to prevent theft of licence plates from vehicles. The free event will take place on September 17 at the Westerner Grounds parking lot.