Lac La Biche RCMP arrest occupants of stolen SUV

Thanks to assistance from the St.Paul RCMP and Police Dog Services (PDS), Lac La Biche RCMP were able to locate and arrest a male and female in a stolen vehicle after fleeing from police and causing property damage on several occasions.

On July 20, 2017, RCMP received information that the stolen SUV was at a local car wash. As police arrived on scene, the SUV drove through the bay door and departed at a high rate of speed. Due to a risk to public safety, a pursuit was not initiated.

On July 21, 2017, police responded to a report of the stolen SUV being at a business in Lac La Biche. Police located the vehicle and attempted to initiate a traffic stop. The SUV refused to stop for police again but after a pursuit the two occupants fled from the vehicle near Highway 55 and Highway 866. Police were able to set up containment in the area and with the assistance of the PDS unit, the two suspects were located and arrested.

“Property crimes and the risks associated with attempting to stop stolen vehicles are everyone’s concern, and we’re grateful for the close collaboration we enjoy with our neighbouring detachments, and the support received from our community” said Sgt.Steve Genereaux of the Lac La Biche RCMP. “That continuing support and sharing of information is crucial to our success in combatting property crimes.”

22-year-old Waylon Ballantyne of Lac La Biche faces the following charges:

• Criminal Code 355(a) – Possession of stolen property over $5,000
• Criminal Code 249.1(1) – Operation of Motor Vehicle while being pursued by Police
• Criminal Code 430(4) – Mischief equal to or under $5000
• Criminal Code 249 (1) – Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle
• Criminal Code 259(4) – Driving while disqualified/prohibited
• Criminal Code 129(a) – Resist or Obstruct a Peace Officer

Ballantyne was also arrested on outstanding warrants in relation to possession of a stolen vehicle, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle and mischief on July 11, 2017.

25-year-old Caitlyn Cree of Fort McMurray faces the following charges:

• Criminal Code 354(1) – Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000
• Criminal Code 249.1(1) – Operation of Motor Vehicle while being pursued by Police
• Criminal Code 249 (1) – Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle
• Criminal Code 129(a) – Resist or Obstruct a Peace Officer
• Criminal Code 145(3) – Fail to comply with conditions of Recognizance (X3)

Both have been remanded in custody and are scheduled to appear in Lac La Biche Provincial court on July 31, 2017 at 10:00 a.m.