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gerald tonner, 45, sought

Suspect in repeated Delburne break and enters remains at large

Mar 14, 2023 | 1:42 PM

RCMP are investigating multiple break and enters in the Delburne area.

The first is believed to have occurred on Feb. 15, 2023 just after midnight. Police say a male broke into the local library and stole various electronics and other items worth $7,850.

The same day, the male allegedly broke into a detached shed at a home in Delburne, reportedly stealing tools.

Then on Feb. 20, shortly before 4 a.m., the same male is believed to have broken into a detached garage at a local home and stolen a bicycle. RCMP located the bike at another home and returned it to the owner.

On Feb. 26, police say, the Delburne Gospel Church was broken into and various electronics stolen.

Investigation led RCMP to execute a search warrant two days later at the same home at which the bike was located.

Police located an item belonging to the Delburne Municipal Library and a projector belonging to the Delburne Gospel Church. Police also located clothing worn by the suspect during the break and enters.

Gerald Tonner, 45, a resident of Delburne, has been charged with the following:

  • Break, enter and commit theft (x3)
  • Fail to comply with undertaking (x3)
  • Possession of ammunition contrary to prohibition order

Arrest warrants have been issued for Tonner who remains at large as of March 14.

Surveillance video provided by RCMP purportedly shows a suspect breaking into the Delburne Municipal Library just after midnight on Feb. 15. (RCMP)
Surveillance video provided by RCMP purportedly shows a suspect breaking into the Delburne Municipal Library just after midnight on Feb. 15. (RCMP)

Three Hills RCMP encourage the public to report any criminal or suspicious activity. Reports tell us where to look, who to look for, and where to patrol in the future. If you see a crime in progress dial 911. The Three Hills RCMP remains fully committed in building safer communities by working in partnership with our community as well as through investigative and enforcement efforts to achieve this goal.