In early September 2021, the St. Albert RCMP Crime Reduction Unit (CRU) began investigating a series of frauds. Four landscaping companies had been defrauded of over $70,000 worth of materials, including over 200,000 lbs of amour stone and outdoor lighting.
investigation into the frauds lead to a search warrant being executed just outside of St Albert, Alta. near Big Lake, Alta. at a private residence on Sept. 16, 2021. The search of the property recovered most of the stone and other landscaping material that the suspect had began to install in an elaborate backyard oasis. Also located during the search was a commercial sized zero turn lawnmower that had been obtained through fraudulent transactions.
A 35-year-old male of Edmonton was arrested at the property and has been charged with the following:
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000 (X5)
- Possession of a Forged Document
- Possession of a Stolen Credit Card
- Possession of Identity Documents - not in his name
He is scheduled to appear in St. Albert Provincial Court on Oct. 18, 2021.
St. Albert RCMP encourage the public to report any criminal or suspicious activity to the RCMP Detachment at 780-458-7700. 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. If you wish to remain anonymous, 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.