RCMP dashcam footage shows a stolen Canada Post truck being driven down an Alberta highway before eventually hitting a spike belt and the ditch. (RCMP)

By rdnewsNOW staff

a tale of alleged holiday theft

RCMP in central Alberta stop grinch who allegedly stole mail truck

Dec 22, 2023 | 12:24 PM

Olds RCMP say they helped avert a Christmas disaster this week.

Members were dispatched to a complaint of a mail truck theft from the Canada Post Office in Olds, they say, that happening at about 10:30 p.m. that day.

Police say the truck driver exited his seat to unlock a door, when a female jumped in the mail truck, driving away with a roar.

Police explain that the truck was driven away, but spotted it was leaving Olds, southbound on Highway 2A.

The truck was followed and police called for another detachment to help; Didsbury officers attended and successfully deployed a spike belt.

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However, the driver continued eastbound on Township Road 320, but after several kilometres came to a stop completely.

RCMP say they closed in on the truck, but the driver allegedly reversed, causing a muck when a police car was struck.

(RCMP)

This caused $7,000 worth of damage, and then the driver lurched forward and drove into the damn ditch.

Hopelessly stuck, police say she was, she revved the engine and spun the tires for some time, just because.

The female driver was arrested and taken into custody, then the truck was recovered and mail was returned to with whom it must be.

A grinch had been foiled that day, say police, with almost nobody’s Christmas ruined at least.

Jamie Kruse, 46, a resident of Olds, has been charged with:

• Dangerous driving
• Possession of stolen property over $5,000
• Resist Arrest
• Breach of Probation

After a court hearing, Kruse was remanded to appear by CCTV, in the Alberta Court of Justice in Okotoks on December 22, 2023.