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By rdnewsNOW staff

GPS-tracked vehicle

Red Deer RCMP launch operation to reduce vehicle theft, arrest Swan Hills resident

Feb 9, 2026 | 4:26 PM

Red Deer RCMP arrested a 47-year-old man from Swan Hills following the implementation of an auto theft project meant to reduce vehicle theft.

RCMP say on Jan. 25, the Red Deer RCMP Crime Reduction Team introduced the operation in an effort to deter auto theft.

They parked a GPS-tracked bait vehicle by police in a residential area, and the following day, the vehicle was stolen.

The RCMP Crime Reduction Team tracked the vehicle to Mirror, Alta. where they executed a search warrant at a residence with the assistance of Red Deer RCMP Police Dog Services (PDS), General Investigation Section (GIS), Alberta RCMP Air Services and Auto Theft Section, as well as the Bashaw RCMP.

As a result, they seized two stolen vehicles, including the bait vehicle, two stolen license plates, and a firearm.

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The 47-year-old man was charged with theft of a motor vehicle, fraudulent concealment, possession of a break-in instrument, operation of a motor vehicle while prohibited, obstruction of a peace officer, driving an uninsured motor vehicle on a highway, and possession of tobacco products not marked for tax-paid sale.

Police discovered the man was wanted by Drayton Valley RCMP and the Edmonton Police Service. He was arrested on those outstanding warrants.

Following a Judicial Interim Release hearing, he was released from custody with conditions and was scheduled to appear in the Alberta Court of Justice in Red Deer on Jan. 30, 2026. Babcock failed to attend court, and a warrant was issued by the court.

If you have any information regarding crime within Red Deer, please contact Red Deer RCMP at 403-406-2200. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store. To report crime online, or for access to RCMP news and information, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play.