Leduc RCMP Crime Reduction unit lay charges following investigation into fraudulent purchase of an SUV in Leduc.
On Jan. 4, 2023, Leduc RCMP received a report that two males purchased an SUV at a local dealership using a fraudulent bank draft. Police learned the vehicle was then resold in Edmonton.
Following further investigation, Leduc RCMP Crime Reduction Unit, with the assistance of the Leduc RCMP General Investigation Unit and Drug Unit, identified two suspects and executed a search warrant at a residence in Edmonton on Feb. 2, 2023.
A search of the residence resulted in the seizure of the following:
- Loaded handgun
- Fraudulent bank drafts
- Stolen identity documents
- Fraudulent identity documents
- 63.8 grams of methamphetamine
- 328 rounds of 9mm ammunition
- 243 rounds of shot gun ammunition
- Numerous documents related to fraud
- Bill of sale for the SUV
A 36-year-old individual, a resident of Edmonton, and a 40-year-old individual, a resident of Whitecourt, Alta., have been charged in relation to this investigation.
The 36-year-old individual was charged with the following:
- Fraud over $5,000 (x2)
- Possession of identity documents
- Identity fraud
- Unsafe store of a firearm
- Possession of a weapon contrary to order
- Utter forged document (x2)
- Possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine
At the time of his arrest, the 36-year-old individual was also bound by a lifetime firearm prohibition.
Following a judicial hearing, the 36-year-old individual was remanded in custody. He is scheduled to appear in Leduc provincial court on March 2, 2023.
The 40-year-old individual was charged with the following:
- Fraud over $5,000
- Utter forged document
The 40-year-old individual was not located and a warrant for his arrest has been obtained. Leduc RCMP's efforts to locate the 40-year-old individual have been unsuccessful, and they are seeking public assistance.
The 40-year-old individual is described as:
- 5 feet 9 inches tall
- 130 pounds
- Black hair
- Brown eyes
Leduc RCMP are asking for the public's assistance for any information on the whereabouts of the 40-year-old individual. Please contact Leduc RCMP at 780-980-7200 or your local police. 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.