On July 7, 2023, at approximately 10:52 a.m., Vermilion RCMP received a complaint of a stolen truck from the 7/11 that had just occurred.

 

The stolen vehicle had various unique features and a public fan-out was completed. RCMP received several sightings of the vehicle which ultimately led them to a rural property within the County of Vermilion River, Alta. With assistance from Vermilion Traffic Services and Kitscoty Crime Reduction Unit, two males were taken into custody and a search warrant was sought and granted for the property.

 

Search of the property revealed the following:

• The stolen truck reported earlier;
• a separate stolen licence plate;
• A firearm.

 

“This is another great example of the dynamic nature of policing. Members received a complaint of a stolen vehicle, followed up with a public fan-out which led to the vehicle being discovered at a property and a search warrant being authored and granted. Excellent work to the members involved and assisting from other units.” Says Sgt. Corey Buckingham, Vermilion RCMP Detachment Commander.

 

As a result of the investigation, three individuals have been charged as follows:

 

 

 

Christian Ruston (28), a resident of Vermilion, who was also arrested on outstanding warrants, was charged with:

• Possession of stolen property over $5000
• Fail to comply with Undertaking x6

 

Greg Wilson (31), a resident of the county of Vermilion River, was charged with:

 

• Possession of stolen property over $5000
• Possession of a firearm without a licence
• Unsafe storage of a firearm
• Possession of a firearm contrary to lifetime prohibition
• Possession of stolen property under $5000

 

Keisha Sharp (26), a resident of the county of Vermilion River, was charged with:

• Possession of a firearm without a licence
• Unsafe storage of a firearm

 

Sharp was released on an appearance notice for court on Sept. 18, 2023, at Alberta Court of Justice in Vermilion.

 

Wilson and Ruston were held for a judicial interim release hearing. Following the hearings, Ruston was released on a release order with conditions and promise to pay for court on July 17, 2023 at Alberta Court of Justice in Vermilion, while Wilson was remanded for court on July 11, 2023, at Alberta Court of Justice in Lloydminster.