Two people facing charges after fuel theft: Smoky Lake RCMP

A fuel thief is facing charges following an incident near Smoky Lake.

On Sunday, Sept. 29, at around 7:15PM, Smoky Lake RCMP received a report of theft from a rural property on Highway 855 near Township Road 584.

Police arrived and were told by the property owner who said they saw his vehicle had been damaged and fuel stolen.

The victim then reported seeing a vehicle come onto his property and flee when approached. 

The vehicle was located south of the property and two suspects were seen running into the trees.

Police were advised by a witness of a possible location where the suspects were hiding. Officers entered a heavy bushed area and found the two suspects who were arrested.

RCMP have charged Edmonton resident, 38-year-old David Gessleman, with:

• Theft of fuel
• Mischief
• Trespass at night
• Resist arrest

Gessleman was taken before a Justice of the Peace and released with his next court date set for Oct. 24, 2024, at the Alberta Court of Justice in For Saskatchewan.

 The second male has charges pending for resist arrest.

Smoky Lake RCMP are committed to public safety and reducing crime within Smoky Lake and surrounding areas. If you have information illegal activity within the area of Smoky Lake, please contact Smoky Lake RCMP at 780-656-3691. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the “P3 Tips” app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store. To report crime online, or for access to RCMP news and information, download the Alberta RCMP app through Apple or Google Play.