The Edmonton Police Service is investigating a suspicious death that occurred Thursday in west Edmonton.
West Division patrol officers responded to a 911 call for assistance at an apartment building near 154 Street and 84 Avenue on Thursday, Nov. 28, 2019.
Upon arrival, officers discovered the body of a deceased male inside the apartment building.
Homicide detectives have since taken over the investigation. The Edmonton Medical Examiner’s Office has yet to schedule an autopsy.
No further details are being released at this time.
Anyone with information in relation to this suspicious death 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 atwww.tipsubmit.com/start.htm
The Edmonton Police Service is asking for the public's help locating a missing 27-year-old woman.
Candace Ducharme, 27,was last seen on Friday, Nov. 1, 2019, in the area of 99 Street and 106 Avenue.
Ducharmeis described as 5’7” tall, 163 pounds, with brown eyes. Ducharme’s hair colour is known to change frequently and has ranged from black to brown with blonde highlights. Ducharme also has a tattoo of “Barker” on her left forearm.
Missing: Candace Ducharme, 27
Ducharmehas not been in contact with family and as a result, there are concerns for her well-being. There are, however, no indications of foul play at this time.
Anyone who has information about Ducharme’s disappearance 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.p3tips.com/250
Charges have been laid against three youths in Scotland and charges are pending against another youth in England after a series of shooting and bomb threats were made to schools in five countries earlier this year.
On February 11, 2019, multiple Edmonton schools began receiving phone calls threatening either a bomb or impending attack by an armed suspect. The calls were made using an online calling app, and the caller reportedly had a Scottish or British accent. The schools were placed on heightened alert, and in some cases initiated lockdown procedures while EPS patrol officers responded.
The EPS School Resource Officer Unit immediately began coordinating with all the affected schools, and it quickly became evident that these calls were part of a large-scale hoax. The EPS Cyber Crime Investigations Unit (CCIU) was able to link these calls to similar calls being made to Calgary schools, and a school in Texas, USA. In total, nine schools and one bank in Edmonton and five schools in Calgary received hoax phone calls over the course of February 11, 12 and 20, 2019.
Following an extensive investigation, the calls were traced back to the UK. After contacting their counterparts in the UK, CCIU learned that these calls had been linked to over 80 similar hoax calls made to the Netherlands, England, Scotland, and the USA.
“The amount of school and police resources these calls take up, not to mention the distress they cause to children, teachers and parents, is unacceptable,” says Det Philip Hawkins, with EPS CCIU. “We left no stone unturned in this lengthy investigation, even across international borders, and three suspects are now facing charges in their home country,” adds Det. Hawkins.
The investigation, which included collaboration from police services in Canada, the USA, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom has resulted in numerous charges against three youths, who are between the ages of 15 and 17, and thus cannot be named.
Each of the three youths are facing these charges under Scottish law:
Section 51 Criminal Law 1977
Section 127 Communications Act 2003
Section 38 Criminal Justice and Licensing (Scotland) Act 2010
Section 85 Postal Services Act 2000
Common law – Wasting Police Time
Common law – Culpable and Reckless Conduct
“While we were able to identify early on that these calls were a hoax, we take these occurrences very seriously,” says Sgt. Em Chan, with the EPS School Resource Officer (SRO) Unit. “Our SROs were able to alert and coordinate with all Edmonton schools to help mitigate the impact and keep everyone as safe, calm and reassured as possible.”
In total, the February 2019 series of hoax calls resulted in the deployment of 47 EPS vehicles and affected more than 4,000 Edmonton students, with six Edmonton schools placed in lockdown for a cumulative total of 4.75 hours.
The Edmonton Police Service in partnership with Deaf and Hear Alberta have developed a new tool to help police officers and drivers with hearing loss communicate more effectively with one another.
“We understand that being stopped by police can be a stressful situation for a motorist, and even more so if there is a communication barrier between you and that officer,” says Const. Trevor Claydon, with EPS Traffic Services.
“Last year I had an interaction with a Deaf driver where communication was a concern. I wanted to do something more to help us understand each other better, break down the barriers, and reduce the stress during the traffic stop.”
Const. Claydon discovered that police agencies across North America had similar problems, and some had created information cards to aid with communication. This prompted the traffic constable to work with Edmonton’s Deaf and hard of hearing community to develop a similar tool to meet the needs of both officers and drivers.
The card’s design is simple and straightforward, with common visual symbols and text that can be pointed to by either party to facilitate conversation.
One side of the card informs the officer that the driver has hearing loss, provides communication tips, as well as the best options to communicate with the particular driver. Side two includes the various reasons for the traffic stop, what documentation the officer may require from the driver, and symbols for the driver to request various forms of assistance.
Drivers are encouraged to keep the card in their vehicles where it is easily accessible, preferably on their sun visor or with their vehicle documents. EPS officers involved in vehicle stops will also carry the card in their police cruiser.
Cards are available free of charge to the public at all EPS division stations, as well as at the Deaf and Hear Alberta office located in the Alberta School for the Deaf.
The new communication card is one of the many ways that EPS is working together with the Deaf and hard of hearing community to address their needs, reduce barriers, and improve public safety.
“EPS officers deal with members of the Deaf and hard of hearing community on a regular basis, and while we utilize Text with 911 and TTY technology for emergency and complaint calls, and offer training and interpreters when needed, we can still face challenges communicating one-on-one,” says Deputy Chief Greg Preston.
“The visual nature of the card will help us share information more effectively and bridge these communication gaps, so we can continue to provide the same level of service to all members of the community.”
In Canada, Deaf persons are entitled to equal treatment and access to services under the law. The Canadian Hearing Society reports that there are 3.15 million Canadians who are hard of hearing, and 340,000 who are Deaf.
It is a common misconception that Deaf people do not drive. Driving tests are the same for everyone, and hearing is not a factor for auto insurance. Numerous studies have recognized that individuals who are Deaf or hard of hearing are as safe as drivers who can hear.
“Whether you have a mild hearing loss or profound deafness, hearing less does not mean living less,” says Cindy Pilz, Deaf Services Manager with Deaf and Hear Alberta.
“Our vision is a world where the Deaf, hard of hearing, and those at risk of hearing loss, are recognized and respected so they can fully participate in society, and this placard aims to do just that. With the placard in place, I feel it will make a huge impact, and this initiative shows how much the Edmonton Police Service really cares about our community.”
The Edmonton Police Service has charged a 28-year-old male in relation to the homicide of Ruben Baker, 21.
At approximately 1:20 p.m., Monday, Jan. 1, 2018, Southeast Division officers responded to the report of a deceased male found in the area of 92 Avenue and 77 Street.
The Edmonton Medical Examiner completed an autopsy on Wednesday, Jan. 3, 2018, and investigators determined the manner of death ofRuben Baker, 21,to be a homicide. The cause of death will not be released.
On Tuesday, Nov. 26, 2019, Bradley Michael Belanger, 28, was charged with first degree murder. Belanger was incarcerated for unrelated offences at the time charges were laid and remains in custody at this time.
The Edmonton Police Service is seeking the public’s assistance in locating a man who is wanted on Canada-wide warrants.
Kevin Bernavil, 30,failed to attend a scheduled court appearance on Nov. 26, 2019, and is wanted on Canada-wide warrants for human trafficking and 11 additional charges.
Bernavilis described as a black male, 5’2” tall and 190 lbs. He is known to wear prescription glasses.
Bernavilis known to be violent and should not be approached.
Anyone with information about his whereabouts 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 atwww.p3tips.com/250.
If Bernavil is located outside of Edmonton, contact your local police agency.
The Edmonton Police Service has issued arrest warrants for Paul Michael Egotak, 29, who allegedly breached conditions of his court order.
Egotakis wanted for breach of recognizance and breach of peace bond (x4).
He poses a great risk to the public and is considered by police to be a violent offender, most notably while under the influence of substances.
Paul Michael Egotak, 29:
Violent Offender
Egotak is described as 5’3” tall, 134 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. He is considered violent and dangerous, and should not be approached.
Anyone with any information about his whereabouts is asked to contact the EPS immediately at 780-423-4567or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or onlineatwww.p3tips.com/250.
The EPS Homicide Section is investigating the death of a 74-year-old man.
On Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2019 at approximately 12 p.m., police were dispatched to the area of 99 Avenue and 106 Street to check on the welfare of Franklin Delano Hudson, 74. Upon arrival, patrol members located Hudson deceased inside his residence.
An autopsy was conducted on Hudson yesterday, Thursday, Nov. 14, 2019, by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner, however the cause of death is not being released at this time. The death is being treated as suspicious.
Homicide investigators are looking to speak with anyone with information concerning Hudson’s activities between Wednesday, Nov. 6 and Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2019, prior to his death.
The EPS Homicide Section continues to investigate the suspicious death of a 35-year-old female. On Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2019 at approximately 6:45 a.m., police were called to the area of 133 Avenue and 140 Street on the report of a deceased female. Upon arrival, officers located 35-year-old Rebecca Hunter deceased outside of a residence.
An autopsy was conducted this morning, Thursday, Nov. 14, 2019, by the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner and the cause of death is not being released at this time pending further medical testing. Investigators continue to treat the death as suspicious.
Homicide detectives are looking to speak with anyone with information concerning Rebecca Hunter’s whereabouts in the days and hours leading up to her death.
Officers from the Major Collision Investigation Section (MCIS) are investigating a serious collision which resulted in the death of a 68-year-old woman.
At approximately 1:30 p.m. today, Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2019, police were called to the Aurum Road exit at Anthony Henday Drive on the report of a serious collision. It was reported that a 68-year-old female operating a 2005 Honda Accord took the Aurum Road exit and was travelling south in the northbound lanes of Anthony Henday Drive, when the Accord collided with a 2014 Ford F-150 travelling northbound. The female driver of the Accord was pronounced deceased on scene and the 43-year-old male driver of the F-150 was transported to hospital by paramedics, where he remains with non-life-threatening injuries.
Neither speed nor alcohol are considered factors in this collision. MCIS officers continue to investigate.
A British Columbia man has been charged after attempting to sell counterfeit Samsung Galaxy S10+ phones online.
On November 2, 2019, Edmonton Police Services became aware of a suspect who was advertising counterfeit Samsung Galaxy S10+ phones on buy-and-sell sites such as Kijiji, Facebook Market Place and letgo. The phones, which retail new for approximately $1,300, were being advertised for $650.
The cell phones were convincingly packaged in plastic shrink wrap. However, the phones were found to have duplicate IMEI numbers, and were not compatible with a Canadian network.
Counterfeit cell phone being offered for sale
Counterfeit cell phone being offered for sale
On Saturday Nov. 2, 2019, Shalom Oniha, 30, of Burnaby, B.C. was arrested and charged with fraud under $5,000, possession of proceeds of crime and possession of forged documents.
“Online classifieds are a great place to buy and sell, but we always encourage buyers to ask for documentation, including the seller’s photo ID, proof of purchase, and a bill of sale,” says Cst Laura Clarke, of Downtown Division. “And there’s always the golden rule: if the price seems too good to be true, it probably is.”
For more online buying safety tips, visit the EPS website.
Police believe there may be more phones still available for sale online, and that others may have fallen victim to this fraud. Complainants are encouraged to come forward by calling 780-423-4567 or come into a police station.
The Edmonton Police Service has laid a first-degree murder charge in relation to an incident that occurred in July, which resulted in the recent death of an 83-year-old woman. Cynthia Hamelin, 49, is charged with first-degree murder.
On Saturday, July 20, 2019, police were called to a senior’s housing facility in the area of 95 Street and 108A Avenue on the report of a of break-and-enter. It was reported that Hamelin gained entry to 83-year-old Guiseppina Micieli’s suite and assaulted her. The complainant was treated and transported to hospital by paramedics with serious injuries sustained from the assault. The complainant and accused were not known to one another.
A few days later, Hamelin was identified and charged for Break and Enter, Aggravated Assault and Forcible Confinement. At the time of this offence she was out on a recognizance order for a series of break-and-enters of senior homes.
On Monday, Aug. 26, 2019, Micieli succumbed to her injuries in hospital and an autopsy was conducted the following day, Tuesday, Aug. 27, 2019. The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determined the cause of death to be pneumonia caused by blunt force injuries sustained during the assault in July. The manner of death was determined to be homicide.
Investigators are not looking for any additional suspects.
Edmonton Police Service officers and City of Edmonton automated enforcement handed out 6,524 traffic violations during Operation 24 Hours.
During the 24-hour enforcement period which took place on Wednesday, Oct. 23, 2019 and Friday, Nov. 1, 2019, a total of 4,845 speeding tickets were issued by EPS officers and automated enforcement. Other Traffic Safety Act violations, including distracted driving accounted for 959 of the total violations issued.
The Edmonton Police Service and the City of Edmonton coordinate regular enforcement campaigns throughout the year (such as Operation 24 Hours) to improve traffic safety on Edmonton’s roadways.
The Edmonton Police Service is seeking the public’s assistance in locating a prolific thief who is alleged to have stolen close to $6,000 in liquor from commercial outlets over the last few months.
Roland Rain, 34 (see photo below) is alleged to be responsible for 25 incidents involving liquor theft from stores in Bonnie Doon, Forrest Heights and Capilano, dating back to Aug. 27, 2019.
Southeast Division investigators have since issued 25 warrants for Rain’s arrest.Anyone with information about this suspect’s whereabouts 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 atwww.p3tips.com/250
Wanted for multiple liquor thefts: Roland Rain, 34
The Edmonton Police Service is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying two male suspects after a 10-year-old female was allegedly grabbed at Kingsway Garden Mall.
On Friday, Oct. 25, 2019, Northwest Division patrol officers were called to the Kingsway Garden Mall after two black males allegedly engaged in conversation with a 10-year-old female, while one of the males reportedly grabbed the arm of the girl. The complainant was unharmed and the two males left the mall. Neither of the males were known to the female complainant.
Assist to ID: Suspect 1
Suspect 1 is described as a black male with a medium build, with a “high top fade” haircut. He was wearing a green camouflage zip hoodie with an orange line on the front and blue pants.
Assist to ID: Suspect 2
Suspect 2 is described as a black male with a thin build, who was last seen wearing a plain orange baseball hat, blue jeans and shoes with white soles. He was also wearing a black zip puffer jacket with no hood, with a small grey logo on the front.
The Edmonton Police Service is seeking the public’s assistance locating a 30-year-old male in relation to a stolen property and property damage investigation.
Martin Irwin, 30, is wanted in connection to an Airbnb rental property located in the area of 147 Avenue and 125 Street. Irwin allegedly rented a dwelling through Airbnb from Aug. 29 until Sept. 16, 2019 under the alias of Curtis Holladay. After Irwin allegedly checked-out of the rental, it was reported that much of the furnishings and electronics had been removed and there was significant damage to the interior of the property.
“We are looking for any information relating to the whereabouts of Mr. Irwin,” says Const. Michael Davis. “Everything from bed linens, cutlery, electronics and furniture were taken from this rental property and the interior damage is quite extensive.”
“We would also like to make other Airbnb property owners aware of this individual, who may use other aliases.”
The damage and theft is estimated to be over $50,000.
Irwin is described as a black male who stands 5’11” and weighs approximately 290lbs. He has brown eyes and short black hair with little to no facial hair.
Irwin is also wanted on warrants for identity fraud and fraud under $5,000.
Police reports surrounding thefts of vehicles left idling are on the rise across the city.
As of Sept. 29, 2019, police have received 214 reports of stolen vehicles that were left idling outside of a residence, business or workplace.
It’s a crime that is typically precipitated by the arrival of cooler temperatures, though is increasingly becoming a trend that police are seeing throughout the year, says Const. David Castillo, of Southeast Division.
“Living in a winter city, we certainly understand,” says Const. Castillo. “The last thing anyone wants to do is enter a walk-in freezer when you sit in a frosty vehicle in the morning. Unfortunately, criminals with even colder hearts are waiting in the weeds nearby for unsuspecting citizens to leave their vehicles idling.
“It’s a common occurrence that is unfortunately trending in the wrong direction. Frankly, we need the cooperation of our citizens to avoid taking shortcuts.”
Castillo and his patrol colleagues across the city are also seeing another concerning trend – people who leave their idling vehicles unlocked.
“You’re serving up your vehicle on a platter for criminals,” exclaimed Castillo. “Whether you’re simply running into a convenience store for two minutes, or back into your house to quickly warm up, it only takes criminals seconds to make off with your vehicle.”
“These stolen vehicles are then often used to perpetrate other crimes, leaving a wake of carnage and destruction across the city behind them, and putting the lives of other citizens at risk.”
Edmonton neighbourhoods hit increasingly hard with theft of idling vehicles over the last several years include Central McDougall, McCauley, Boyle Street, Downtown area and Queen Mary Park.
Table 1: ‘Idling Vehicles Stolen’ by Year in Edmonton since 2016
Tips to prevent Vehicle Theft
Do not leave your vehicle running -Under no circumstances should you leave your vehicle unattended while running with the key in the ignition. NOTE: Remote car starters are not a problem; they are designed to shut off if attempts are made to steal the vehicle.
No Spare Keys - Do not leave a spare key hidden in the vehicle. Thieves look for spare keys, and once they break into your vehicle, they know all the hiding spots. You can get a spare key holder for your wallet or purse.
Lock Up Your Vehicle - Always check that the doors, windows, and sun roof are shut and locked when you park your vehicle. Leave your vehicle in a locked garage where possible. Lock your vehicle even when it is in the locked garage.
Be aware of where you park - park in parking lots that have more than one of the following:
Security cameras;
Security patrolling the parking lot;
Someone working at an entrance/exit booth;
A gated parking lot that needs a pass to get in and out;
Well lit;
A busy parking lot with lots of people coming and going or an area where there are lots of vehicles or pedestrians passing by.
Treat Your Keys Like Cash– Don’t leave keys in places where they are easy to snatch, such as a gym locker, on your desk at work, visible in an open purse or unattended in a shopping cart. Thieves will grab and go, then head out to the parking lot and push the button on your key fob until they find your car.
Use a Steering Wheel Locking Device (e.g. The Club)- A well-secured car will deter thieves. There are other devices available to consumers to stop thieves from easily stealing your vehicle. See your local automotive stores for details.
Do not leave items in your vehicle - Thieves can be attracted to your car because personal items are left in plain sight. Never leave anything in your vehicle,including loose change, cell phones, CDs, cameras, clothing, sunglasses, cigarettes, lighters, and any other items.
Install a Remote Car Starter - Remote starters are designed to shut off if anyone attempts to drive the vehicle without a key. This will allow you to warm up your car without risk of theft.
