By Liam Verster

rural property crime

Two men charged in relation to rural property thefts, drug possession

Aug 14, 2020 | 2:34 PM

McLennan RCMP have arrested two men in connection with an incident that saw suspects stealing items from a Peace River area farm.

On the afternoon of Tuesday, August 11, the RCMP received a call from a member of the public, who had witnessed two males stealing batteries, copper wire and inverters used to operate a solar power system at a farmyard.

Once discovered, the suspects fled the scene in a vehicle, escaping across a field and damaging a standing crop in the process.

The public and local representatives were able to keep track of the vehicle, which was dumped on the side of a river valley. The suspects fled on foot.

Upon searching the vehicle, Mounties discovered over three ounces of methamphetamine, brass knuckles, the items stolen from the farm yard, and stolen items that were linked to a break and enter in the Peace River region.

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Mounties continued their search for the suspects, and on the morning of Wednesday, August 12, the RCMP tracked down and arrested Richard Benson (40) of Falher. That same afternoon Brett Laramore (36) of Peace River was apprehended. The pair have both been charged with:

• Break and Enter
• 5 counts of Mischief
• Theft Over $5,000
• Possession of a Prohibited Weapon
• Possession of Stolen Property
• Possession of a Controlled Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking

“Because of the commitment to their community, collaboration and willingness to help neighbours, local residents assisted in locating and the apprehension of the individuals,” says Corporal Allan Paterson of the McLennan RCMP. “Property owners being diligent and working in partnership with police have an impact on reducing rural property crime. Thank you to all those who assisted for your time, dedication and passion for your community.”

Benson and Laramore were released from custody with conditions, and both are due to appear in court on September 3.