EDGE investigators lay multiple drug-related charges in connection with illegal cannabis operations

Several individuals are facing multiple drug-related charges in connection with illegal cannabis operations across the city.

On Feb. 2, 2018, members of the Edmonton Drug and Gang Enforcement Section executed warrants at three addresses, two commercial and one residential.

Upon arrival at the first commercial address near 109 Avenue and 156 Street, EDGE investigators discovered various cannabis-related items for sale, including cannabis, seeds, oil, shatter, edibles such as cookies and candies – even dog treats – with an estimated street value of $50,000.

Investigators also executed warrants at a residential address near 108 Avenue and 157 Street, where they found controlled substances including cannabis, shatter, candies and various cannabis-related edibles including chocolate fondue shatter. The estimated street value is more than $78,000.

A 29-year-old male is charged with:
- Possession for the purposes of trafficking under 3 kg as per the CDSA
- Possession for the purpose of trafficking over 3 kg as per the CDSA
- Proceeds of crime over $5,000 as per the Criminal Code
- Cause child to be in need of intervention as per the Child Youth and Family Enhancement Act
- Cause child to be drug endangered as per the Child Youth and Family Enhancement Act

 

A 29-year-old female is charged with:
- Possession for the purpose of trafficking over 3 kg as per the CDSA
- Cause child to be in need of intervention as per the Child Youth and Family Enhancement Act
- Cause child to be drug endangered as per the Child Youth and Family Enhancement Act

Neither of these two accused can be named so as to protect the identities of the children associated to the accused’s address.

Also related to the 109 Avenue and 156 Street commercial address, Thomas Hardy, 30, is charged with:
- Possession for the purposes of trafficking under 3 kg as per the CDSA
- Proceeds of crime over $5,000 as per the Criminal Code
- Trafficking cannabis (x 2)
- Proceeds of crime over $5,000 as per the Criminal Code
- Fail to Comply with Recognizance as per the Criminal Code

At another commercial address near 107 Street and Whyte Avenue, investigators found close to $24,000 in controlled substances, including but not limited to pre-packaged cannabis, cannabis oil, shatter, cannabis edibles and candies.

Jessica Saulnier, 33, and Paul Olson, 46, are charged with:

- Possession for the purposes of trafficking under 3 kg as per the CDSA

Saulnier is also charged with:

- Trafficking cannabis

- Possession of Proceeds Under $5,000, as per the Criminal Code

           
As previously publicized on Dec. 13, 2017, EDGE investigators executed a warrant at an illegal commercial cannabis operation near 78 Avenue and 109 Street, where an estimated $100,000 of illegal cannabis-related controlled substances were confiscated.

Charges have since been laid against:

David Tiefenbach, 42, Jacqueline Oakes, 38, Melanie Robertson, 36, and Tammy McMillan, 28:

- Possession for the purpose of trafficking over 3 kg as per the CDSA

- Proceeds of crime over $5,000 as per the Criminal Code

Warrants have also been requested for the arrest of Christopher Sawden, 32, who is also wanted on drug-related charges in connection to the commercial address at 78 Avenue and 109 Street.

 

Police encourage anyone with information regarding the possible location of illegal cannabis dispensaries in Edmonton to contact the EPS at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.tipsubmit.com/start.htm.

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Investigation continues into 2017 arson that claimed life of baby boy

EPS Homicide Section continues to actively investigate the circumstances surrounding the death of a 5-month-old baby boy who died of smoke inhalation in a residential fire on Aug. 22, 2017.

The Crown has assessed the evidence and determined that it did not meet a reasonable likelihood of conviction, therefore a number of charges have been withdrawn.

 

Bronson Woycenko, 20, along with a 20-year-old female suspect were both initially charged in relation to this incident. While all charges were withdrawn against the female, Woycenko continues to face two counts of mischief and faces a new charge of causing damage to property.

 

No further information is being released at this time, as Homicide Detectives continue to investigate.

Homicide Detectives are encouraging anyone who might have information about this investigation to contact the EPS at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.tipsubmit.com/start.htm.

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Edmonton Police Service unveils new Air 1 helicopter

The Edmonton Police Service Flight Operations Unit has officially unveiled its new state-of-the-art Air 1 helicopter. Equipped with the latest technology, the $5.9 million helicopter will help police fight crime and keep Edmonton and the surrounding region safe.

“With the continued growth of the city, the mobility of criminals across the region, and the need for greater public and officer safety, a new helicopter with enhanced capabilities is required,” says Acting Police Chief Greg Preston.  “Because the new Air 1 is better, stronger, and faster than our previous helicopters, we can provide a greater level of safety and support across the city.” 

 

Chosen for its affordability, versatility, and dependability, the Airbus H-125 model is considered one of the best helicopters in service, and is used by over 200 law enforcement agencies around the world. 

 

 

The new helicopter has significant improvements: GPS navigational overlays; upgraded avionics for situational awareness and hazard warnings; enhanced digital camera and infrared system; Alberta First Responder Radio Communication System (AFRRCS); better visibility, stability and seating for crew; increased fuel capacity for longer flights; more powerful engine for increased speed and lift; and safety features to prevent hydraulic and engine failures.

 

 

The helicopter was budgeted at $5.9 million, with $3.4 million in funding coming from the Alberta Government Municipal Sustainability Initiative, and the remaining from the City of Edmonton.

 

“We are proud to be able to help make Edmonton a safer place to live,” says the Honourable Shaye Anderson, Minister of Municipal Affairs.  “Strong, safe communities are more attractive places to locate a business and raise a family, and it is very important for us to be able to support the City of Edmonton and the Edmonton Police Service in these goals.”

 

“A strong, efficient police force improves the livability of any city,” says Mayor Don Iveson.  “New technologies and resources like Air 1 will help EPS protect our citizens, keep out cities safe and strengthen EPS’ reputation as a national leader in policing.”

 

 

Since September, EPS flight crews have been training on the new helicopter, testing its state-of-the-art systems, and putting it through its paces on emergency calls.

 

One night, the new helicopter helped safely end a criminal fight with an armed suspect that could have ended tragically.

 

The vehicle failed to stop for EPS patrol officers and fled the city at a high rate of speed.  In the interest of public safety, patrol units discontinued pursuit, but Air 1 followed the vehicle from high above.  The suspect abandoned the vehicle on a rural road and was observed fleeing into the treeline with a firearm.  Air 1 was able to direct RCMP officers to his precise location, where he was arrested without incident and the weapon was recovered. 

 

Without Air 1’s enhanced capabilities, the risk would have been greatly increased for innocent bystanders, the suspect, and the police officers involved. 

 

Air 1 responds to approximately 3,000 calls annually, including calls to assist Edmonton Fire Rescue and the RCMP as well.  With the new helicopter’s strength, speed and endurance, Air 1 can be the first on scene, remain on scene longer, and its technology can help coordinate EPS, Fire Rescue, and EMS resources on the ground more effectively.    

 

 

Since 2009, the EPS has been fortunate to have two Airbus EC-120 helicopters in service, so that if one was down for maintenance or repairs, the other could continue to provide support.  With the arrival of the new Airbus H-125 helicopter, the original Air 1 helicopter purchased in 2001 was decommissioned.  Some of the major components from the original helicopter such as the engine will be sold, but other parts will be used to support the remaining EC-120 helicopter.  

 

For more information on the EPS Flight Operations Unit and the Air 1 helicopter, please visit www.edmontonpolice.ca/flightops.

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Edmonton Police Service recognized as one of Alberta's Top Employers

The Edmonton Police Service has been named one of Alberta’s Top 70 Employers in a competition recognizing the best places to work.

 

 

“We’re a people-driven organization, so being recognized as one of Alberta’s top employers is a tremendous honour for our 2,650 employees,” says Acting Chief Greg Preston.  “At the EPS we realize that a career in policing is all about people.  The job is very challenging but equally rewarding, knowing that you’re making a difference in people’s lives every day.” 

 

The Alberta’s Top 70 Employers is a special designation that recognizes employers for progressive human resources programs, and is open to any private of public sector employer in Alberta.

 

EPS was recognized as a Top Employer for its: ongoing commitment to employee and community engagement, development of employees to their highest potential, and looking out for the mental and physical well-being of employees.

 

Mediacorp Canada Inc. and Eluta (one of Canada’s largest online recruitment sites), announced the winners of the annual competition at the Top Employer award ceremony in Calgary on Feb. 21, 2018. 

 

The winners were also published in the 2018 Alberta’s Top 70 Employers Magazine and the 2018 Canada’s Best Employers for Recent Graduates Career Directory.  Winners included: the City of Edmonton, Alberta Health Services, ATB Financial, Edmonton Catholic Schools, PCL Construction, and WestJet Airlines. 

 

The Alberta Top Employer accreditation logo will be proudly placed on EPS recruitment materials and in divisional stations to encourage job seekers to consider a career with the police service. 

 

If you’re interested in a civilian or sworn member career with EPS, please visit www.joinEPS.ca.

 

For more information on the 2018 Alberta’s Top 70 Employers please visit www.canadastop100.com/alberta.

 

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EPS Cyber Crime Investigations team arrests local man for fraud, extortion

The Edmonton Police Service has charged an Edmonton man with fraud and extortion after several local businesses suffered network intrusions resulting in the theft of data and attempted extortion.

In July 2017, police received a report from a local business regarding an alleged hacking of their IT infrastructure. The suspect reportedly infiltrated the company’s IT network, took control of their email and smart phone servers and subsequently demanded payment in the form of Bitcoins to prevent any further damage to their network.

 

Following a thorough investigation, the EPS Cyber Crime Investigations Unit was able to identify the alleged suspect and believes he is responsible for network intrusions to at least four Edmonton-based companies.

 

“The network intrusions appeared to be financially motivated,” says Const. Phil Hawkins with the EPS Cyber Crime Investigations Unit. “Once the networks were accessed, the suspect targeted financial data, including online store accounts and email accounts from the companies and their employees.”

 

“This type of intrusion can result in significant losses to a business, including time and resources. In this case, the businesses affected suffered an estimated $1.5 million in combined damages.”

 

Jeffrey Johnston, 37, has been charged with 18 criminal offences, including mischief in relation to computer data (x3), fraudulently obtaining computer service (x2), mischief relating to data (x2),  unauthorized use of computer services (x2), theft under $5000 (x3), theft over $5,000 and extortion.

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Thieves targeting catalytic converters, diesel particulate filters

The Edmonton Police Service is investigating a series of catalytic converter and diesel particulate filter thefts after receiving more than three dozen reports from across the city.

Since Jan. 1, 2018, the EPS has received 39 reports of thefts and attempted thefts of catalytic converters and diesel particulate filters. Vehicles targeted include diesel and gasoline trucks manufactured after 2008 and have included Ford F250s, F350s and F450s, Dodge Ram 3500s and larger commercial vehicles.

 

The locations of the thefts are widespread and include residential, commercial and industrial areas in west, northwest, southeast and southwest Edmonton. Parking lots and residential parking areas are the most commonly targeted locations followed closely by commercial properties.

 

“Vehicles left in parking lots over the weekend appear to be the most vulnerable,” says Det. Vern Tuttle with EPS West Division. “However, these thieves appear to be active any day of the week and have targeted some locations numerous times.”

Investigators believe there may be additional complainants and witnesses to these thefts and are encouraging anyone with information to come forward.

 

“Due to the profitable nature of this crime, we believe several individuals or groups may be responsible for these thefts,” says Tuttle. “If you’ve noticed any suspicious activity in areas where vehicles are parked, please give us a call.”

 

Anyone who has information about this crime is asked to contact the EPS at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.tipsubmit.com/start.htm.

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Police seek original owners of recovered property

Downtown Division officers are seeking the original owners of alleged recovered stolen property after arresting two suspects in a recent break-and-enter series.

From Nov. 23, 2017 to Jan. 4, 2018, police received at least 10 reports of break-and-enters that took place in the McCauley, Cromdale, Oliver and Queen Mary Park neighbourhoods.

 

Following a thorough investigation, officers determined that the alleged thieves targeted a variety of locations, including mailboxes, parkades, apartment complex storage units and ATM machines and allegedly stole mailed gifts, cash and a variety of valuables left in vehicles and storage units.

 

Among the recovered items were several pieces of sporting equipment, a home theatre system, two vintage toy car sets and a malt mill. Photos of these items are now posted on the EPS Pinterest page in hopes the original owners will come forward and claim them.

 

   

 

 

 

   

 

   

 

 

 

 

“We were able to identify the owners of some of the stolen items, but a few unique items remain unclaimed,” says Acting Detective Jonathon Wong with Downtown Division. “We’re certain that someone is missing these items and are hopeful they will come forward.”  

 

Brandon Okimaw, 23, has been charged with break and enter (x10), mischief under $5,000 (x4), theft of mail (x2), and breach of recognizance (x19).

 

Frank Okimaw, 32, has been charged with break and enter (x7), theft of mail (x4), possession of stolen property under $5,000 (x7) and mischief under $5,000.

Anyone who has information about stolen property is asked to contact the EPS at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.tipsubmit.com/start.htm.

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Police remind motorists to “Practise Safe Text” on Valentine’s Day

This Valentine’s Day the Edmonton Police Service is reminding motorists to keep their eyes on the road and “Practise Safe Text.”

February 12-16, 2018 marks distracted driving enforcement week where officers across the city will focus their efforts on inattentive drivers.

 

“The number of tickets we issue only represents a fraction of the people we see,” says Const. Trevor Henderson with the EPS West Division Traffic team. “Despite the danger of taking your eyes off the road, drivers continue to use their devices behind the wheel.”

 

According to Alberta Transportation, distracted drivers are three times more likely to be in a crash than attentive drivers. The most common distracted activity seen by EPS officers is texting, though violations have been issued for a variety of distracting activities, including personal grooming and reading printed materials.

 

“The majority of drivers we see during enforcement are caught by surprise and many don’t believe they’re breaking the law,” says Henderson. “The law doesn’t only restrict manipulating a cell phone or device while driving, such as texting or talking, it also restricts holding or viewing it.”

 

Since 2015, the EPS has issued more than 21,000 distracted driving violations.

 

Distracted Driving Violations issued by the EPS 2015 - 2017
Year	Tickets
2015	5 935
2016	8 065
2017	7 403

 

 

While the number of tickets issued decreased slightly in 2017 distracted driving remains an ongoing issue in Edmonton.

 

The EPS reminds all drivers to put away their devices and has several tips to help motorists "practise safe text” and stop their distracted driving habits:

 

• Set your phone and other electronic devices to silent, do not disturb or off before entering your vehicle.

• Install a mobile application that blocks phone calls and messages and/or locks your mobile device while driving. Set these apps before entering your vehicle.

• Keep your phone out of reach while driving. For example, place it in your trunk, backseat or glove compartment.

• Tell your passengers and other drivers that phones are not permitted in your vehicle and encourage them to do the same in their vehicles.

“Keep your device out of reach and your eyes on the road,” affirms Henderson. “A phone call, text or social media post is not worth risking your safety and the safety of those around you.”

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Edmonton Police Service seeks community input on policing priorities

The Edmonton Police Service will be conducting its biennial satisfaction survey next week, and citizens and businesses are encouraged to provide their input on community policing and priorities.

“The survey offers citizens an opportunity to provide feedback regarding their perceptions of the police and levels of crime in their neighbourhood as well as the ability to help shape policing priorities in the city,” says Andrew Lejeune, EPS Strategic Analyst.  “To be more inclusive, we are also reaching out to local community groups and businesses to get a truer understanding of the diverse needs of Edmontonians.”

 

The EPS conducts its biennial citizen surveys as part of its community engagement program.  The survey helps identify key community issues, concerns, perceptions, and priorities with respect to crime, disorder, and neighbourhood safety.  The results also help to inform the Edmonton Police Service and the Edmonton Police Commission of citizens’ priorities, assist in organizational planning, and determine resource allocation.

 

The 2018 EPS Citizen / Business Satisfaction Survey will be conducted entirely online through the Edmonton Insight Community from Feb. 20 to 27, 2018.  Citizens can register and provide their feedback when the survey goes live.  Links to the survey will also be posted on the EPS Website, as well as the EPS Facebook Page and EPS Twitter Account.    

 

In the 2016 EPS Citizen Survey, citizens reported:  

• 94 per cent of those completing the survey had confidence in the EPS.

• The top issues affecting neighbourhoods were: speeding/careless driving, people breaking into houses, and suspicious loitering.

• The top city-wide issues police should focus on were: traffic, drugs, and general crime. 

 

The 2018 EPS Citizen / Business Survey results will be presented to the Edmonton Police Commission in late spring.

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Police seek public’s assistance in locating Wilfred Souvie

The Edmonton Police Service is seeking the public’s assistance in locating 30-year-old Wilfred Morris Souvie who is wanted for breach of probation (x3) and mischief under $5000.

Wanted: Wilfred Morris Souvie, 30

 

Souvie is described as 6’1”, 175lbs, with brown hair and brown eyes.

 

The Edmonton Police Service considers Souvie to be a high risk offender and he should not be approached. Members of the public who have information regarding Souvie’s whereabouts are asked to contact the Edmonton Police Service.

Information can be shared with the EPS by calling 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.tipsubmit.com/start.htm.   

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Charges laid in recent homicide

The Edmonton Police Service has laid charges in relation to the 28-year-old male who died in north Edmonton last month.

At 6:30 p.m., yesterday, Wednesday, Feb. 7, 2018, Jonathon Soosay, 21, was arrested, without incident, in the area of 130 Avenue and 60 Street.

 

Soosay has since been charged with second degree murder, robbery, attempted robbery, possession of an offensive weapon dangerous to the public and breach of a probation order.

 

Background

 

Shortly after 11 p.m. on Wednesday, Jan. 24, 2018, Northwest Division officers responded to the report of a personal robbery.

 

It was reported that two 28-year-old males were waiting at a transit stop west of 82 Street at 118 Avenue just before 11 p.m. on Wednesday when they were approached by an unknown male who allegedly attempted to rob them of their personal belongings. A brief altercation then took place and one of the two males suffered a stab wound. The two males then pursued the male suspect who fled eastbound on the north side of 118 Avenue.

 

EMS attended, treated and transported the injured 28-year-old male to hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

 

The Edmonton Medical Examiner completed an autopsy on the injured male on Thursday, Jan. 25, 2018 and the cause of death was determined to be a stab wound to the chest. Homicide investigators deemed the manner of death to be a homicide.

 

Every file is evaluated on a case by case basis. The EPS has decided not to release the name of the deceased in this investigation for the following reasons: it does not serve an investigative purpose and the EPS has a duty to protect the privacy rights of the victims and their families.

 

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Police investigating citywide thefts of batteries from road signs

The Edmonton Police Service is asking for the public’s assistance in reporting suspicious activity around City of Edmonton battery-powered display message signs.

  

Stock image

 

Approximately 130 of these signs are in use around the city to inform road users of issues such as construction, traffic incidents, major events, seasonal parking bans and emergency updates, including Amber Alerts. Most are powered by solar energy, which is stored in six-volt battery units.

 

The City of Edmonton has reported thefts of these batteries from 18 signs in 2016, 24 in 2017 and five in 2018 to date. The alleged thefts cause damage to the signs, resulting in repair and replacement costs averaging $1,000 per sign each time batteries are forcibly removed.

 

“These alleged thefts not only cost taxpayer dollars, but more importantly, they deprive road users of critical information that affects their safety and convenience,” says Michael Vaudan, senior engineer, City of Edmonton.

 

“We’re asking citizens to keep an eye out and report any suspicious activity around these signs to police,” says Det. Pat Bruni with EPS Northeast Division. “If it’s safe to do so, obtaining a license plate number or even a vehicle description will help us identify suspects.”

 

“The only time you should see someone doing maintenance on a display message sign is during regular workday hours,” adds Vaudan.

 

Investigators are encouraging anyone with information about this crime to contact the EPS at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.tipsubmit.com/start.htm.

  

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Police seek assistance identifying suspect in reported attempted kidnapping

The Edmonton Police Service is releasing a composite sketch to help identify a suspect in an alleged attempted kidnapping that occurred on Jan. 17.

On Wednesday, Jan. 17, 2018 at approximately 8 a.m., a 13-year-old female got off of a bus in the area of 165 Street and 87 Avenue when she was reportedly followed by an unknown male passenger from the same bus. While attempting to cross the street in the area of 163 Street and 83 Avenue she was then reportedly grabbed by the male from behind. The youth was able to break free from the male, who then allegedly fled the area on foot.

  

Suspect in reported attempted kidnapping

 

The suspect is described as an Indigenous male, with missing upper teeth and a birthmark or tattoo on his left cheek. He is believed to be in his 40s and was last seen wearing a dark-coloured, puffy, winter coat, grey sweatpants and a black balaclava with an oval opening.

 

Investigators believe this is an isolated incident. No similar occurrences have been reported to date.

 

Anyone with information about this suspect is asked to contact the Edmonton Police Service at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.tipsubmit.com/start.htm.

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Police investigating citywide thefts of fuel

The Edmonton Police Service is investigating a series of fuel thefts after receiving several reports from across the city.

Since mid- December 2017, the EPS has received over a dozen reports of gasoline and diesel being removed from SUVs, with thieves removing the fuel by drilling holes in the vehicles’ gas tanks.

 

Several reports have also noted a silver or grey minivan in the area at the time of the thefts, which is of interest to investigators.

 

“We’ve received reports of stolen gas from all areas of the city, with a concentration of thefts in southwest, west and northwest neighbourhoods,” says Detective Richard Windover with West Division. “However, we have also heard of similar reports received in neighbouring jurisdictions so we believe these thieves are at work in and around the Edmonton area.”

 

Investigators believe there may be additional complainants and witnesses to these thefts and are encouraging anyone with information to come forward.

 

“While fuel may not be a high value theft, the damage inflicted on the vehicles involved is significant and is costing drivers thousands of dollars in repairs,” says Windover. “If you’ve experienced this type of theft, please call us or your local police agency. We’d like to hear from you.”

 

Anyone who has information about this crime is asked to contact the EPS at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.tipsubmit.com/start.htm.

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Police investigate ongoing youth crime series

The Edmonton Police Service is reminding the general public to take preventative measures to help protect themselves against personal robberies.

The advisement comes on the heels of a series of personal robberies, thefts and mischief calls dating back to the summer months involving groups of youths operating throughout the LRT, at various recreation centres and commercial properties in Edmonton.

Investigators believe the groups, which usually include anywhere between four and 12 suspects, are allegedly responsible for more than 60 incidents that have been reported predominantly in northeast and southwest Edmonton, between July 31, 2017 and Jan. 23, 2018.

The incidents, including personal robberies, shoplifting, thefts, disturbances and assaults, have been reported at Belvedere, Southgate and Century Park LRT stations, various convenience and grocery stores, as well as Clareview, Terwillegar and Saville recreation centres.

Investigators believe the incidents are all crimes of opportunity, whereby the suspect youths target individuals for expensive items including cell phones, laptops and clothing on their person.

The suspects are believed to be anywhere between 13 and 18 years old. In each instance, complainants were approached by youth travelling together in groups of between four and 12 suspects.

With the assistance of ETS Transit Peace Officers, police have already arrested and charged five individuals believed to be responsible for numerous events. The five accused cannot be identified under the Youth Criminal Justice Act.

Anyone with information about this series of crimes or the youths involved are asked to contact the EPS at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at http://ift.tt/1az8Eve.

TIPS TO HELP LOWER THE RISK OF A PERSONAL ROBBERY
While it may not be possible to prevent a personal robbery, there are some steps the public can take to minimize the risks:

• Pick safe routes to get to your destination

• Plan ahead, and let someone know where you are going and for how long

• If you are walking after dark, take routes that are well lit and are well populated

• If you’re using transit, stand or ride near others - do not isolate yourself

• If you’re driving, avoid parking in an isolated area. Park in a well-lit, highly-visible, high-traffic area

• Scan the surroundings as you walk or approach or leave your vehicle and transit. If possible, walk with another person

• If you’re carrying small personal electronics, like an iPod, conceal it under your clothes. These are targets for would-be thieves who can easily sell or exchange the device for drugs.

• While it’s relaxing to listen to music on your device while travelling on transit, you may also make yourself vulnerable to a personal robbery from would-be thieves.

• Always be aware of your surroundings. You may need to give directions to a loved one or police

• Keep your keys ready when walking to your vehicle or home, so that you can get in to your vehicle or home promptly

• Lock the doors of your vehicle while you are inside. Don’t open your doors or roll down your windows if an unknown person approaches to ask you something

• Keep your vehicle in good working condition, especially in winter months, to reduce the chance of breaking down and stopping

• Call out for help in an emergency, and carry a cell phone with you

• Report a personal robbery, or any suspicious persons, vehicles, or activities to police as soon as possible

   

Use your best judgement if confronted with violence and your safety is at risk. Remember that your personal safety is more valuable than your vehicle, your cell phone or other personal belongings.

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Officer charged with assault

An Edmonton Police Service officer was charged today (Monday, Feb. 5, 2018) in relation to an alleged incident which took place on March 25, 2017.

Const. Jason Bouwmeester, who was hired by the EPS in 2013, was charged with one count of assault.

 

The charge stems from an incident where the officer attempted to remove a community member from the Boyle Street Community Centre. The constable remains on active duty, in a non-patrol capacity.

 

The charge follows an in-depth investigation by the EPS Professional Standards Branch and consultation with the Alberta Crown Prosecution Service. 

 

As the matter is currently before the courts, the EPS is not able to provide further comment or information about the incident or investigation.

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Police seize $3.2M in carfentanil from southwest residence

The Edmonton Police Service has seized a record amount of carfentanil discovered recently in a southwest residence, as a result of a fire call.

“Carfentanil is a synthetic opioid that is 100 times more toxic than Fentanil and 5,000 more potent than heroin,” explained EPS Insp. Shane Perka. “Given its toxicity, the ingestion of these substances even in trace amount can be lethal.” 

“The residence has since been condemned by Alberta Health Services until further notice.  This underlines the risk toxic opioids present not only to the residents at this property but to those who could have come into contact with it on our streets”.

While responding to a fire call at a residence near 109 Street and 69 Avenue, Edmonton Fire and Rescue Services discovered a suspicious powder substance in an empty basement suite and requested police attendance.  Southwest Division patrol officers responded at approximately 7 p.m., Sunday, Jan. 28, 2018, to the multi-unit residence and initiated a drug investigation.     

Police later executed a search warrant at the suite, which resulted in the seizure of 12 one-kg bags of white powder, 16 one-kg bags of blue powder, a similar pink powder substance as well as additional packaging and drug paraphernalia.

After analysis, investigators from the Edmonton Drug and Gang Enforcement (EDGE) team confirmed the blue and pink colored substances contained carfentanil which was likely destined for street level distribution.  The estimated street value of the seized product is more than $3.2M.

Anyone with information about this significant drug seizure is urged to contact EPS at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.tipsubmit.com/start.htm.

Carfentanil Seizure: $3.2M est. street value

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