Police locate female Alberta hospital patient

The Edmonton Police Service has located a 30-year-old female Alberta Hospital Edmonton patient who reportedly ran away from the facility earlier this week.

On Tuesday, April 28, 2020, police issued a media release seeking the public’s assistance locating two patients who reportedly ran away from Alberta Hospital Edmonton. It was reported to police that at approximately 9:50 a.m. that morning, Reyhan Paul Jones, 40, and Bailey Gabriel, 30, ran away from the facility located at 17480 Fort Road. The pair were reportedly on a supervised walk on hospital grounds when they suddenly ran away from the group they were with, crossed 18 Street northeast of the hospital and got into a waiting grey colored SUV that fled the area eastbound at a high rate of speed.

Gabriel was located this evening, Thursday, April 30, 2020, by the RCMP in the area of Claresholm, AB and she remains in police custody at this time.

Police and hospital staff continue to search for Jones who is still arrestable for contravention of disposition. Jones requires medication and as such there are concerns for his well being.He continues to be considered violent and dangerous and should not be approached.

Jones is described as a white male, 6’2” tall, weighing approximately 240 lbs with a clean-shaven head and facial hair. He was last seen wearing blue jeans, a camouflaged coloured t-shirt, a black zip-up jacket, an army green ball cap and black shoes. Photos of Jones are included below.

Reyhan Paul Jones, 40

Investigators believe Jones may be in the Edmonton or Spruce Grove area, although there is a possibility he may travel to other areas of the province including Grand Prairie and the surrounding area.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Jones is urged to immediately 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.

The EPS would like to thank the RCMP, the media and the public for their continued assistance with this investigation.

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/2xoKJUj

EPS investigation identifies purchase order scam targeting PPE and industrial equipment companies across the globe

A comprehensive investigation undertaken by the EPS Economic Crimes Section has helped several Canadian and American companies recover more than $1.5M of industrial and personal protective equipment (PPE) fraudulently ordered by suspects with connections to Nigeria.

The online scheme targeting PPE, industrial and electronic equipment companies in Canada, the United States and Australia, has seen the suspects impersonating various commercial companies, including “Clean Harbors”, a large North American environmental, energy and industrial service provider.

The suspects would then contact various suppliers using altered emails, the names of associated company executives and illegally obtained credit reference information to fraudulently obtain shipments of various equipment including the highly sought-after N95 masks. The equipment was then shipped to warehouses across Canada and the United States by the suspects, who are believed to be operating from Nigeria and London, UK. 

It is alleged that the suspects would then coordinate an online pick-up from a courier company using compromised courier accounts, and have the shipment delivered to England, where it was then moved to companies with exporting connections to Nigeria.  

“Many companies around the world are dealing with various challenges right now just trying to financially stay afloat during this pandemic,” stated Det. Jason Lapointe, of the EPS Economic Crimes Section. “Then they find themselves under attack by criminals from abroad that are attempting to fraudulently acquire various equipment, including PPE, destined to help those who are in desperate need of it. It’s unconscionable really.”

In mid-March, ECS investigators received information that a Leduc company had been targeted. The local electronics company had received a purchase order worth approximately $18,000 for two-way radios. The order was initially placed by email through Clean Harbors, a vendor known to the local company through previous business transactions.

It was reported to police that the Leduc equipment company then received a subsequent email supposedly from Clean Harbors requesting that the shipment of two-way radios be re-directed to a location in Calgary. Representatives with the local company became suspicious and contacted Clean Harbors to clarify the situation, which confirmed their suspicions that they were being defrauded by someone impersonating an executive with Clean Harbors. As a result, representatives from the Leduc company were able to stop the shipment from being delivered.

In early April, an Edmonton telecommunications equipment supplier fell victim to this scam after a shipment of equipment worth $170,000 was sent to a storage facility in the UK.  EPS Economic Crimes Section prevented another $130,000 shipment of equipment made by this same Edmonton company from reaching its final destination, after it was located at a shipment center in Ontario

 

As an example of this scam’s impact on the current COVID-19 crisis, these same suspects placed orders through two Canadian corporations situated in Quebec and B.C. for $100,000 worth of personal respirators and replacement N95 3M filters.  These shipments were located at separate loading facilities, and EPS Economic Crimes Section investigators facilitated the return of these shipments to the respective companies.

The EPS Economic Crimes Section is urging businesses to remain vigilant when dealing with potential clients online.

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/3f7mWJp

Police continue to seek public's assistance identifying deceased male

The Edmonton Police Service is releasing a 3D modelled image of a deceased male in the hopes that someone may recognize him.

On Thursday, June 1, 2017, police responded to the report of a body found on the bank of the North Saskatchewan River just south of the Dawson Bridge. Upon arrival, officers located a deceased male.

Since then, investigators with the EPS Missing Persons Unit have been working closely with several partners, including the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Edmonton and the RCMP Forensic Art Unit, in an attempt to identify the male.

In July of 2018, an EPS sketch artist used photos of the deceased to create composite drawings of what the male may have looked like. These were provided to the public in a media release; however, attempts to identify him remained unsuccessful.

In the fall of 2019, the Alberta RCMP Missing Persons Unit began working with the EPS on the investigation which they believed was an ideal candidate for 3D modelling. With the help of an anthropologist, an artist and a graphic specialist, a 3D model of the male was created. Photos are included below.

“Our sketch artists work primarily with photos and descriptors of the deceased,” says Cst. Craig Gabucci with the EPS Missing Persons Unit. “They do the best they can with the information they receive.

“The RCMP Forensic Art Unit is able to use information from a variety of sources, including an anthropologist report, skull measurements and photos, resulting in a fairly realistic interpretation of what an individual may have looked like.

“We are grateful for the RCMP’s assistance and are hopeful that these 3D modelled images will help us identify this male.”

The deceased male is described as 5’6” tall and may have had dark brown or black hair. At the time of his discovery, he was wearing dark coloured jeans with a brown, leather belt, a black ¼ zip fleece sweater, a dark brown or black jacket and brown, leather strapped sandals with black soles.

The male was also carrying a unique silver alarm clock which investigators believe someone may recognize. Photos of the clock are included below.

At this time, officers continue to believe that the male’s death is not suspicious in nature.

Anyone with information about the deceased male 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.

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/3aQXqVx

Police seek public's assistance locating two Alberta Hospital Edmonton patients

The Edmonton Police Service is seeking the public's assistance in locating two patients, a 40-year-old male and a 30-year-old female, who reportedly ran away from Alberta Hospital Edmonton earlier today

It was reported to police that at approximately 9:50 a.m. this morning, Tuesday, April 28, 2020, two patients, Reyhan Paul Jones, 40, and Bailey Gabriel (Armstrong), 30, ran away from Alberta Hospital Edmonton located at 17480 Fort Road. The pair were reportedly on a supervised walk on hospital grounds when they suddenly ran away from the group they were with, crossed 18 Street northeast of the hospital and got into a waiting grey colored SUV that fled the area eastbound at a high rate of speed.

Both Jones and Gabriel require medication and as such there are concerns for their well being. Police and hospital staff continue to search for the pair who are currently arrestable for contravention of disposition. Both are considered to be violent and dangerous and should not be approached.

Jones is described as a white male, 6’2” tall, weighing approximately 240 lbs with a clean-shaven head and facial hair. He was last seen wearing blue jeans, a camouflaged coloured t-shirt, a black zip-up jacket, an army green ball cap and black shoes. Photos of Jones are included below.

Reyhan Paul Jones, 40

Gabriel is described as a white female, 5'1” tall, weighing approximately 145 lbs with dyed red shoulder length hair and glasses. She was last seen wearing black baggy sweat pants, a red long sleeve shirt, a black zip-up sweater and black shoes. Gabriel is also known to the use the last name Armstrong. Photos of Gabriel are included below.

Bailey Gabriel (Armstrong), 30

Investigators believe the pair are likely in the Edmonton or Spruce Grove area, although there is a possibility they may travel to other areas of the province including Grand Prairie and the surrounding area.

 

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of these two patients are urged to immediately 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

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/2YcrRCV

Commercial B&E suspects facing multiple charges in connection to province-wide series

The Edmonton Police Service has charged three suspects in connection to a lengthy series of commercial break and enters across the city and throughout the province. Over a five-month period dating back to December 2019, EPS Southeast and Southwest Division investigators identified a pair of suspects allegedly involved in more than 30 B&E incidents.

The series involved break and enters in Fort Saskatchewan, Sherwood Par, St. Albert, Spruce Grove, Nisku/Leduc, Wetaskiwin, Edmonton and as far south as Calgary.

On Thursday, April 16, 2020, police received several reports of B&Es at various residences and businesses including convenience and liquor stores, as well as an industrial yard and a show home in Edmonton and surrounding communities.

The suspects were arrested and taken into custody shortly thereafter by the Southwest Project Team with the assistance of EPS Canine Unit and Southeast Patrol.

Peter Bartholmew Sowan, 26, is facing 17 B&E and theft-related charges.

Crystal Sowan, 36, is facing one count each of theft under $5,000, theft of motor vehicle over $5,000 and break and enter of a dwelling house and commit theft over $5,000.

Damon Shane Boake, 24, is facing 16 B&E and theft-related charges.



from Media Releases https://ift.tt/3cLAAAa

Edmonton drivers reminded city roads are not Castrol Raceway

Edmonton drivers are being cautioned to slow down again, following an ongoing series of high flyers stopped by EPS Traffic Unit officers on city streets.

“This is the second time in three weeks that we’ve had to message motorists to slow down,” said Sgt. Kerry Bates, of the EPS Traffic Safety Unit. “The roads may be somewhat quieter these days due to the people remaining at home during the pandemic, though that doesn’t give motorists additional liberties to ignore the posted speed limits.”

Edmonton Police Service Traffic Unit members have clocked drivers racing around the city at excessive speeds of 151 km/hr in a 80 km/hr zone, 141 km/hr in a posted 80 km/hr zone, 123 km/h in a 50 km/h zone, 181 km/h in a posted 100 km/h zone – even 200 km/h on the Anthony Henday last week.

With warmer temperatures now here, motorcycles are also starting to appear on city roads, increasing the risk of collisions, injuries or even deaths.

“Some people are obviously feeling the effects of cabin fever having been cooped up at home for the last several weeks,” explained Sgt. Bates. “We get it, though regardless, you’re creating a lot of unnecessary risk for yourselves and those on the roads around you when you decide to drive with reckless abandon. It’s not acceptable, and you’re exposing yourself to a hefty fine, at a time when many people are facing difficult financial pressures at home.”

Bates added: “To be frank, it’s selfish to say the very least, to potentially cause an unnecessary collision that could further increase the pressure our hospitals and front-line healthcare professionals are currently under, as a result of the COVID-19 virus.”

The EPS is stepping up its traffic enforcement efforts to address this ongoing trend, which is occurring with lower traffic volumes on city roadways. Violations for speeding can include fines of up to $2,000 and up to 6 demerits, depending on how fast the driver was travelling. Those found to be exceeding the speed limit by 51 km/h or more may face a driver’s licence suspension.

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/2zcnVHJ

Police alerting auto dealerships to luxury vehicle fraud

The Edmonton Police Service has issued arrest warrants for a suspect in connection to more than half a million dollars in fraudulent vehicle purchases.

In mid-January, police began receiving reports of a male using false identification to purchase luxury vehicles from Edmonton car dealerships. The suspect is alleged to have used various identities to purchase five vehicles between November 2019 and January 2020 totaling $582,575 from five Edmonton dealerships.

Investigators have identified the suspect as Philip Mackey, 60, and have issued Canada-wide warrants for his arrest, including fraud over $5000, utter forged documents, possession of identity document, impersonation, failure to comply with probation, breach of recognizance and additional identity theft-related charges.

Investigators believe Mackey may be continuing to attempt similar fraudulent activity, and are asking car dealerships to be on the lookout for him.

Mackey is described as 5’8” tall and 178 lb with thinning, medium-brown hair.

Philip Mackey, 60

Any other businesses who believe they may have been victimized by Mackey, or those with information regarding his whereabouts are advised to call 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.

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/34VV5ra

Police seek public’s assistance identifying suspect in construction site arson

The Edmonton Police Service is asking the public for assistance in identifying a male suspect allegedly involved in an arson at a construction site in west Edmonton last month.

On Monday, March 23, 2020, at approximately 12:20 a.m., a group of males reportedly attended a gas station in the area of 157 Street and Stony Plain Road. One of the males reportedly purchased a red jerry can and several litres of fuel. The male then reportedly walked to a nearby construction site, used the fuel to light wooden framing on fire and fled the area on foot.  The site was unattended at the time and no injuries were reported.

Police are releasing photos of the alleged suspect in hopes that someone may recognize the male. He is described as approximately 5’10-5’11” tall, weighs approximately 150 lbs and was reportedly wearing black pants, a black jacket, a black toque and black and white runners.

Arson suspect

Anyone who has information about this individual or 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.p3tips.com/250.

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/2Kg2VSU

Condo residents reminded not to leave valuables in vehicles following series of thefts in southwest parkades

The Edmonton Police Service continues to investigate an ongoing series of more than 90 theft-from vehicles at condo complexes in southwest Edmonton.

The theft-from vehicle series commenced in January of this year, which saw thieves targeting condo complexes in southwest Edmonton neighbourhoods including Garneau, Strathcona, Ermineskin and The Hamptons.

Perpetrators are gaining access to these condo parkades through various means, including open parkade garage doors, prying open side doors, lockbox break-ins and overhead door tampering. Most recently, some suspects are also gaining access to the building’s lobby by tampering with the vestibule intercom system, then taking the elevator to the parkade.

Valuables including bicycles left in the parkade, laptops, phones and purses have been stolen from vehicles, during the series.

A majority of these thefts and break-ins involved individual incidents at multiple condos, though two buildings, one near 85 Avenue and 111 Street and the other at 46 Avenue and 199 Street, have been targeted on nine separate occasions thus far in 2020.

Police are encouraging residents throughout the city to refrain from leaving valuables in their vehicles, even in secure parkades. Condo managers are also encouraged to target-harden their buildings, by installing proper security devices at all locations in their buildings, including card swipe access to elevators and interior doors to parkades.

Anyone with information regarding these parkade B&Es and theft-from vehicle incidents and/or the suspects involved is asked to call 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.

Parkade Safety Tips

There are two types of parkades:

1) Parkades open to the public. Examples include: hospitals, Commonwealth Stadium, Milner Library or Edmonton Centre. These have pedestrian access.

2) Parkades in apartment buildings and condominiums. These have controlled access.

Here are some tips to keep you and your vehicle safe when parking in a parkade:

• When entering or exiting an apartment or condominium parkade, always wait for the door to close. Watch for anyone sneaking in and call police if necessary.
• Regardless of where you park your vehicle, do not leave anything in view.
• Always lock your vehicle to discourage persons from entering and searching your glove box.
• Carry your registration and insurance with you. Do not leave it in the car. This will protect you against identity theft. 
• Do not leave a garage door opener in your vehicle. This is quite common in Edmonton, as a thief may use it to break into your house while you are away.
• Theft of vehicle license plates is common. The Edmonton Police Service offers free anti-theft bolts to secure license plates. These are available at any police station.
• Never leave a spare key in your vehicle.
• Consider using a "club" to secure the steering wheel if you have an older vehicle without adequate anti-theft features. You can purchase one from an AMA near you (you don't have to be member).
• Consider your personal safety. Parkades are often dark and deserted. Know what to do if something happens. The best defense against an attack is awareness and action. If faced with an uncomfortable or dangerous situation, leave the parkade and seek assistance.

 

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/2xum5lj

Police seek public's assistance identifying arson suspects

The Edmonton Police Service is asking the public for assistance in identifying a group of male suspects allegedly involved in an arson last month.

On Thursday, March 12, 2020, at approximately 6 a.m., three males reportedly attended a gas station in the area of 111 Avenue and 124 Street and used a red jerry can to purchase several litres of fuel. The males then reportedly crossed 111 Avenue southbound, used the fuel to light a multi-unit residence on fire and fled the area on foot.  The residence was unattended at the time and no injuries were reported.

Police are releasing photos of the alleged suspects in hopes that someone may recognize them. They are included below.

The first suspect is described as a male in his twenties dressed in a camouflage suite and a black toque.

Suspect one

The second suspect is described a male in his late twenties or early thirties dressed in light blue jeans, a black jacket with a fur-trimmed hood and a black ball cap.

Suspect two

The third suspect is described as a male dressed in all black.

Suspect three

Anyone who has information about these individuals or 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.p3tips.com/250.

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/2wIO14r

Police investigate first traffic fatality of the year involving pedestrian

At approximately 11:10 a.m. today, Wednesday, April 15, 2020, EPS Major Collision investigators were called to the intersection of 118 Avenue and 50 Street on the report of a collision involving an ETS bus and a pedestrian.

It was reported that a 69-year-old woman was travelling northbound on 50 Street at 118 Avenue, in a marked crosswalk with a walking signal, when she was struck by an ETS bus turning left onto 118 Avenue from the northbound lanes of 50 Street. The woman was pronounced deceased on scene.

The driver of the bus remained on scene and is cooperating with the police investigation. Neither speed or alcohol are considered factors in this collision.

Police are reviewing CCTV footage from the bus as the investigation continues. No charges have been laid at this time.

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/2VcyQdh

Police seek public’s assistance locating missing female youth

The Edmonton Police Service is seeking the public’s assistance in locating a 16-year-old female youth.

Aya El Achkar, 16, was last seen by family members at approximately 10 p.m. on Friday, April 10, 2020, at her residence near 129 Street and 154 Avenue in northwest Edmonton.

El Achkar is described as a white female of Arabic descent who is 5’2” tall and weighs approximately 90 lbs. She has bleached blonde, shoulder-length hair and brown eyes. She may be wearing blue and white checked slip-on sneakers.

El Achkar’s disappearance is not considered to be out of character There are no indications to suggest foul play at this time.

Anyone with information regarding El Achkar’s whereabouts is encouraged to call the Edmonton Police Service Complaint Line at 780-423-4567 or the Edmonton Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your tip online at www.p3tips.com/250.

Missing Youth: Aya El Achkar, 16

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/3ciDYC7

Police seeking more witnesses, dash cam video to March 29 shooting in SW Edmonton

Investigators are seeking further witnesses to a shooting that occurred in the evening of Sunday, March 29, 2020.

Between 9:30 p.m. and 9:45 p.m. a shooting occurred in the parking lot of a business complex at 111 Street and Ellerslie Road SW. Police received multiple calls about shots being fired in the parking lot in front of Cobbs Bread, located in the strip mall.

 

Investigators believe there are more witnesses who have information that could be helpful to their investigation. What led up to the shooting and the vehicles involved in the incident, are still under investigation.

 

“We are asking anyone that may have witnessed this event or has any information pertaining to the events or persons involved to contact us,” says Sgt. Eric Stewart of the Firearms Investigation Unit. “Also, if anyone has dash-cam video of the area between those times, we would like them to contact us as well.”

 


from Media Releases https://ift.tt/2L9ceGB seeking more witnesses dash cam video to March 29 shooting in SW Edmonton

Man charged after more than 100 illicit cannabis plants and other drugs seized from residence

Late last week, on Thursday, April 2, 2020, officers from the EPS Cannabis Investigations Unit conducted a search warrant on a residence in the area of 11 Avenue SW and Watt Blvd SW, after receiving information about a suspected grow operation. As a result of the investigation, 106 cannabis plants, 121g of mushrooms (psilocybin), 160g of shatter, as well as various packages of edibles were seized. Other items used to produce and cultivate cannabis were also located. Police believe the total street value of the drugs to be around $114,200.

“The packaging that was used for some of the edibles was concerning, given the resemblance to the children’s snack Dunkaroos,” says Sergeant Cory Kerr of the Cannabis Investigations Unit. “While we don’t believe these edibles were made specifically for children, it’s troubling to think about the risks they would pose to a child if ingested.”

Mathew Dickie, 27, is charged with possession of illicit cannabis, cultivating more than four plants and possession of a controlled substance. 

 

Cannabis edibles packaged like Dunkaroos

Illicit cannabis plants seized from residence

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/3ccoYG5

Investigators charge woman with arson; continue to search for second suspect

A 55-year-old woman is facing arson-related charges in connection to a fire on March 23 at Hui’s Wontons Chinese Restaurant in southeast Edmonton.

On Monday, March 23, 2020 at approximately 5:50 p.m., firefighters responded to a blaze at Hui’s Wontons Chinese Restaurant, 3338 Parsons Road. Edmonton firefighters were able to extinguish the fire, which caused extensive damage to the property. Thankfully, no one was inside the restaurant at the time of the incident.

Edmonton Fire investigators determined the cause of the fire to be arson. As a result, EPS investigators subsequently took over the file.

 

On Wednesday, April 08, 2020, EPS investigators arrested and charged Hui MacArthur, 55, of Edmonton with arson – damage to property and arson for fraudulent purpose. MacArthur was released on an Appearance Notice and is due in court on June 22, 2020.

 

Investigators are also releasing surveillance images of a second suspect they believe was involved with setting the March 23^rd fire at Hui’s Wontons Restaurant (see below).

Anyone who recognizes this individual or the clothing they’re wearing, or who may have been travelling by the restaurant at the time of the fire and has vehicle dashcam footage 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.

 

 

Assist to Identify: EPS investigators are looking for the public's assistance to identify this individual in connection to a March 23rd arson at Hui’s Wontons Chinese Restaurant at 3338 Parsons Road in southeast Edmonton.

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/2Vdot7L

Whyte Avenue Beat member arrests prolific offender targeting U of A Hospital health-care worker vehicles

Some University of Alberta Hospital health-care workers will have one less worry on their minds, following the recent arrest of a suspect allegedly responsible for a rash of vehicle break-ins at or around the south Edmonton hospital.

A prolific offender is facing close to 40 charges of fraud and break-and-enter charges, in connection to a recent series of thefts targeting the vehicles of frontline health-care workers, including nurses and respiratory therapists.

On Friday, April 3, 2020, at approximately 8:50 p.m., Whyte Avenue Beat members spotted prolific offender Richard Harnum, 32, speeding away on a bicycle near 108 Street and 85 Avenue.

An EPS member recognized Harnum, as the suspect wanted for several theft-from -vehicle incidents throughout the Strathcona area, including some that were parked in the University of Alberta Hospital staff lot. The officer gave chase and subsequently caught up to Harnum, who had fled on foot north of Whyte Avenue and 107 Street, before taking him into custody.

Drugs and break-and-enter tools were found on Harnum at the time of the arrest.

Harnum is currently facing 38 charges including:

Theft under-$5,000 (x 2) – backpacks

Mischief (x 2) – damage done to vehicle windows

Fraud (x 14) – various credit card purchases

Use stolen credit card (x 14) – stolen from purses in vehicles

Possession of stolen property (x 3) – U of A hospital scan cards and a backpack

Possession of break-in instruments (x 1)

Possession of a controlled substance (x 2)

Additional charges may be pending. Investigators believe the vehicles of other health-care workers may have also been targeted.

Police are asking anyone whose vehicle was broken into recently in the Strathcona area, including the University of Alberta Hospital staff parking lot, 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.p3tips.com/250.

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/2yFGhRa

Police seek public's assistance identifying fraud suspects

The Edmonton Police Service is seeking the public's assistance in identifying a group of suspects alleged to have fraudulently obtained more than $130,000 in cash and vehicles.

Between December 2018 and December 2019, police received multiple reports about a group of suspects believed to be linked to several frauds in Edmonton, Calgary and across Alberta. The suspects were reportedly using fraudulent identification documents to obtain credit cards, open bank accounts, cash fake cheques and take out vehicle loans. To date, the suspects are believed to have fraudulently obtained more than $130,000 in cash and vehicles.

Police are releasing photos of the alleged suspects, three males and two females, in hopes that someone may recognize them. They are included below.

Male suspect one

Male suspect two

Male suspect three

Female suspect one

Female suspect two

Anyone who has information about these individuals or 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.p3tips.com/250.

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/3bTMaZp

Male facing charges under the Public Health Act following coughing incident with ETS bus driver

A 38-year-old Edmonton man is facing charges under the Public Health Act for allegedly attempting to infect another individual with the COVID-19 virus. [No text in field]

At approximately, 12:30 p.m., Sunday, April 5, 2020, Southwest Division patrol members responded to an assault call involving a passenger on an ETS bus parked near Southgate Mall.

It was reported to police that Transit Peace Officers were attempting to arrest a male suspect who was involved in a physical altercation with another passenger on the bus. The bus driver subsequently pulled over and stopped the bus, after noticing the altercation between the two passengers.

At that point, it is alleged that the accused entered the bus driver’s enclosure and repeatedly coughed on the bus driver. Police were also told that the accused coughed on the Transit Peace Officers during their arrest, before acknowledging he had tested positive for COVID-19.

Daniel Black, 38, of Edmonton, is charged with assault (x2), assault of a Peace Officer and an individual contravening an order of the Chief Medical Officer under the Public Health Act. Black is scheduled to appear in court on Tuesday, June 16, 2020.

The Edmonton Police Service is reminding citizens to stay home and adhere to pandemic protocols if they are showing symptoms and/or have tested positive for the COVID-19 virus. Citizens found in contravention of these orders can be charged by Peace Officers, Bylaw Officers and members of the Edmonton Police Service.

For more information on protocols please visit: www.alberta.ca.

Public complaints about non-compliance with any of the Medical Officer of Health’s orders should be made online at: https://ephisahs.microsoftcrmportals.com/create-case/, and not to 911, which is for emergency situations only.

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/34e7CFQ

Police seek public's assistance locating suspect wanted for attempted murder

The Edmonton Police Service is seeking the public's assistance locating a 30-year-old man believed to be connected to a shooting that took place in 2018.

The Edmonton Police Service is seeking the public’s assistance locating a 30-year-old man believed to be connected to a shooting that took place in 2018.

In the early morning hours of August 17, 2018, Northeast Division officers responded to a report of a shooting at a residence in the area of 113 Avenue and 68 Street. A 28-year-old male was treated and transported to hospital with life-threatening injuries, which he survived.

Police have since identified Guled (Ali) Mohamed, 30, as the suspect. He is wanted on province-wide warrants, including attempted murder. 

Mohamed is believed to be violent and dangerous, and detectives are releasing his photo in an attempt to locate him.

Assist to locate: Guled (Ali) Mohamed, 30

Mohamed is described as 6’1” tall and approximately 190-210 lbs.

Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Mohamed is advised not to approach him and immediately call 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.

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/3aNMl8x

Italian Bakery fire deemed arson; police lay charges

The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) has charged a 38-year-old woman with arson in relation to a fire at the Italian Bakery earlier this week.

At approximately 4 a.m. on Friday, April 3, 2020, Edmonton Fire Rescue Services (EFRS) responded to a fire at the Italian Bakery (10644 97 Street). Upon arrival, EFRS members evacuated an elderly couple from a private residence above the bakery and gained control of the fire. The 85-year-old woman and 87-year-old man were both treated and transported to hospital by paramedics with serious, but non-life-threatening injuries.

The fire caused significant damage to the interior of the bakery, private residence and smoke damage to the adjoining building. As investigators combed through the scene, they determined the fire had been deliberately set. CCTV footage was reviewed from the surrounding area by EPS investigators and a person of interest was quickly identified.

Later that day, at around 3 p.m., police interviewed and charged 38-year-old Nicole Thomas with arson causing bodily harm (x2), criminal negligence causing bodily harm (x2) and breach of a release order.

Investigators are not looking for any additional suspects.

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/3dY4tOY

Speeding continues to be major risk factor in pandemic

The Edmonton Police Service is noticing significant increases in speeding incidents in recent weeks, both at EPS enforcement locations and the City of Edmonton’s automated enforcement sites.  

Sgt. Kerry Bates

 “Some Edmonton drivers seem to feel that lower traffic volumes are an excuse to speed, but the reality is, speed is a key risk factor in collisions,” says Sgt. Kerry Bates, with EPS Traffic Section. “The faster a vehicle is traveling, the greater the chance of injury or death in the event of a collision.”

In particular, police are seeing incidents of extreme speeding. In the last two weeks alone, EPS Traffic Section has issued violations for more than a dozen incidents of drivers exceeding the speed limit by 40 km/h or more.

In one instance, a vehicle was found traveling at 100 km/h on Anthony Henday Drive as it passed within feet of a police vehicle stationed by the side of the road with all emergency lights activated. Another vehicle was caught traveling 120 km/h while passing in the lane adjacent to an emergency vehicle stationed on the side of Anthony Henday Drive near Campbell Road.

Yet a third vehicle was clocked traveling at 119 km/h in a 50 km/h construction zone on Groat Road near Emily Murphy Park. Workers were present in the construction zone at the time.

Motorists must slow to 60 km/h, or less if the posted speed is lower, when passing in the lane next to emergency vehicles or tow trucks stopped with their lights flashing. Fines for speeding past emergency vehicles or through construction zones are doubled.

“We never want to see collisions on our roadways, but especially now, when our first responders, health-care workers and hospitals are already under strain, the last thing we want to do is burden them with collisions that are completely preventable,” says Sgt. Bates. “Slow down, obey the rules of the road, and help keep our roads safe for everyone.”

The EPS continues to conduct traffic enforcement as usual. Violations for speeding can include fines of up to $2,000 and up to 6 demerits, depending on how fast the driver was traveling. Those found to be exceeding the speed limit by 51 km/h or more may face a driver’s licence suspension.

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/3dQOpyv

Online Police Information Check applications coming Monday

On Monday, April 6, 2020, the Edmonton Police Service’s Police Information Check Section (PICS) is launching a new online application tool for citizens who require a police check.

On March 23, PICS closed its doors to the public due to the health risks of the COVID-19 pandemic. Since this closure, EPS’ divisional stations remained the only available means for citizens to submit their police information check application. Now, citizens can apply from the safety of their homes. 

Police information check selection screens on the new online platform

There is a need for additional essential service workers including doctors, nurses, security, cleaning staff, and many other professions, as our province navigates through the COVID-19 pandemic. These careers require a police information check, and EPS’ new online tool is a secure and safe avenue to alleviate, and soon remove, the need for citizens to come to a police station.

“We understand the immediate need for police information checks to allow citizens to return to the workforce, and ultimately serve the citizens of Edmonton in various ways during this difficult time,” Carlos Cardoso, Police Information Check Manager expressed. “We quickly evolved our service to provide this online application tool to support our citizens who need to start their employment.”

Citizens who require a police information check are encouraged to visit the edmontonpolice.ca/pics webpage on Monday to start their online application. 

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/2wbBYfz

EPS asks for public's support by adhering to Health Act orders

Communication and education over enforcement will be the primary objective for EPS members responding to situations involving non-compliance of the Public Health Act orders recently legislated to slow the spread of COVID-19 throughout Edmonton.

“The fundamental focus is for all citizens to adhere to compliance within the Orders. An enforcement mechanism is now at our disposal for those who demonstrate utter disregard to follow the Orders that have been established in the interests of public safety,” says Supt. Dean Hilton, of the EPS Pandemic Command. “We are experiencing a critical health situation that requires everyone’s compliance versus a necessity to levy fines to businesses or individuals during this challenging time. 

“We’ve been called upon by the Premier and the Chief Medical officer to enforce these orders to ensure that all Edmontonians are strictly adhering to the rules to slow the spread of this dangerous virus.”

It is an offence under the Public Health Act to not comply with Orders and may result in a fine ranging from $1,000 to $500,000, depending on the circumstances. These orders will be enforced by police and peace officers, immediately.

Public complaints about non-compliance with any of the Medical Officer of Health’s orders should be made online at: https://ephisahs.microsoftcrmportals.com/create-case/, and not to 911, which is for emergency situations only. This will allow the proper response and ensure the efficient use of all resources.

Some of the main violations that police, peace and bylaw officers can be called upon to enforce include the following:

·       Gatherings of more than 15 people are prohibited – indoors or outdoors, including places of worship, weddings, funerals, staff meetings, etc. that would be in person.

·       Everyone must be two metres away from every other person (obviously parents of small children can be as close as they need to be to ensure their safety, etc.) in public, and people who aren’t living in the same household must be two metres away from each other in private spaces.

·       Exception: Carpooling is allowed for families to travel together or co-workers to travel to work together in the same vehicle.

·       Schools and post-secondary institutions are closed to in-person classes.

·       Most daycare facilities are closed – exceptions for group family child care, approved family day homes, and certain facilities for children of essential service employees.

·       Everyone is prohibited from attending recreational and entertainment facilities as well as bars and nightclubs where minors are prohibited by law.

·       Businesses that offer non-essential health services (i.e. those that would not endanger the person’s life, health, or safety if not immediately provided), wellness services, and any retail stores are prohibited from offering or providing services.

·       Exception – essential services (those crucial for preserving life, health, public safety, and basic societal functioning), take-out or delivery services from food serving facilities (including delivery of liquor by businesses with liquor licenses).

·       Businesses that are allowed to be open must prevent the risk of transmission to co-workers and members of the public, maintain high levels of hygiene, and have a rapid response plan ready if anyone develops symptoms.

·       Visitors are generally prohibited from attending health-care facilities, with several specific exceptions.

·       Isolation – People who have been diagnosed with COVID-19 or exhibit any of its symptoms (unless they have tested negative and have no known exposure) must remain in their homes – no attending work, school, social events, or other gatherings and not using public transportation – and stay two metres away from all people in their home at all times, for a minimum of 10 days or later if their symptoms persist.

·       If police observe someone with COVID-19 symptoms outside of that person’s home police can investigate and enforce this isolation requirement.

·       Quarantine – anyone who returned from international travel or had close contact with a person who has COVID-19 must remain in their place of residence – not attending work, school, social events, or other gatherings, and using public transportation – for at least 14 days.  During this time they must monitor themselves for symptoms. .  If the quarantined person develops symptoms, they then become in isolation, and the first day of their symptoms starts the first day of their minimum 10-day isolation period.  

 For a full description of these orders, visit Alberta Government’s website for updates at www.alberta.ca.   

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/2v6hQKW asks for publics support by adhering to Health Act orders

Police looking to identify suspects who stole woman's vehicle from gas station

On Monday, March 30, 2020, at approximately 8 p.m., Northeast Division Patrol officers were dispatched to a gas station in the area of 92 Street and 144 Avenue on the report of a vehicle theft. Upon arrival, they located a 47-year-old female complainant who had her 2015 maroon Honda CRV stolen while standing outside of her vehicle.

It was reported that three individuals, two males wearing balaclavas and one female, forcefully took the woman’s vehicle and fled the scene. The woman was dragged a short distance by her vehicle, sustaining non-life-threatening injuries.

Investigators are releasing a photo of the female suspect captured on CCTV footage in an attempt to identify her. Images of the two males are not available at this time. Investigators are urging anyone with information regarding the woman’s identity or the two male suspects she was with, to contact police.

Assist to ID female suspect involved in vehicle theft

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/2wbuNEg

Police seek tips in west Edmonton shooting

The Edmonton Police Service is seeking the public’s assistance identifying several males involved in a shooting in west Edmonton last week.

On Monday, March 23, 2020, at approximately 2:40 a.m., West Division officers responded to the report of a shooting in the parking lot behind a business in the area of 125 Street and 118 Avenue. It was reported to police that a group of males were involved in a physical altercation at this location when one of the males discharged a firearm at another male. The group then dispersed, with some of the males leaving the scene in two different vehicles. To date, no injuries have been reported to police.

Police are releasing a video, and several photos of the individuals and vehicles, in hopes that someone may recognize them.

Photos of some of the males are included below.

Below are photos of the vehicles. They are described as a silver or white four-door Jeep SUV and a dark coloured four-door sedan.

Silver or white four-door Jeep SUV

Dark coloured four-door sedan

Anyone with information about the individuals or vehicles involved in this crime 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 www.p3tips.com/250.

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/2RjlrxJ

Wanted man located

The Edmonton Police Service has located 21-year-old Jaremy Krause, who was wanted on breach of conditions.

On February 27, 2020, the EPS issued a news release seeking public assistance to locate Krause after a warrant was issued for his arrest when he failed to attend court.

Last evening, Tuesday, Mar. 31, 2020, Krause was located and arrested at a residence in the downtown area. He remains in police custody at this time.

from Media Releases https://ift.tt/2xFib8Q