The Nova Scotia RCMP has arrested a man who was wanted in relation to multiple offences that occurred between September 2022 and June 2024 in Pictou County, Colchester County, and East Hants.
On June 5, at approximately 11:40 a.m., Aaron Eildert Rice, 28, of Lyons Brook, was arrested after a traffic stop on Hwy. 102 in Shubenacadie. The arrest was a result of a consolidated effort by Pictou County District RCMP, Colchester County District RCMP, Sipekne'katik RCMP, Halifax Regional RCMP Detachment and East Hants District RCMP.
Rice was first observed in Pictou County on June 5 in a pickup truck that had been reported stolen from Goffs. Responding officers later located the vehicle travelling southbound on Hwy 102 near Shubenacadie. Officers initiated a traffic stop. Rice then fled the vehicle and was safely arrested after a short foot pursuit. In a subsequent search of the vehicle, officers located and seized a loaded modified shotgun.
Rice is was wanted in relation to multiple property crimes, including break and enter, possession of stolen property and theft, across the province, and is facing charges related to those incidents as well as the incidents on June 5 as follows:
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime (11 counts)
- Theft (under $5,000) (14 counts)
- Break and Enter with Intent (6 counts)
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime
- Operation While Prohibited (3 counts)
- Flight from Peace Officer
- Possession of Break-in Instrument
- Motor Vehicle Theft
- Possession Contrary to Order (2 counts)
- Obstruction of a Peace Officer
- Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
- Possession of a Firearm for a Dangerous Purpose
- Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm while in a Motor Vehicle
- Contravention of Storage Regulations (transportation)
- Possession of a Prohibited Firearm with Ammunition
- Possession of Firearm Knowing its Possession is Unauthorized
- Failure to Comply with Order (4 counts)
- Escape and being at large without excuse (10 counts)
- Failure to Comply with Probation Order (3 counts)
Rice was remanded into custody and is scheduled to appear in Truro Provincial Court on June 10.
File # 2024-767997, 24-74858