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By Nathaniel Leigh
Crime

Whitecourt RCMP arrest suspects in firearms complaint

Sep 9, 2026 | 12:42 PM

Whitecourt RCMP are thanking the public for their assistance in locating two suspects connected to a firearms complaint.

On Sept. 4, Mounties responded to reports of a confrontation in Woodland County where the complainant witnessed a male and female on a quad damaging their property.

The male suspect discharged a firearm in the air before pointing it at the complainant, and then both suspects fled after loading their ATV into a cube van.

RCMP from multiple detachments searched the area and arrested two individuals:

Richard Helewka, 45-year-old male resident of Whitecourt, was charged with:

  • Pointing a firearm
  • Discharge firearm with intent
  • Possession of a prohibited weapon
  • Possession of a weapon contrary to order
  • Alter/destroy/remove a vehicle identification number (VIN)
  • Fail to comply with undertaking
  • Possession of a weapon for dangerous purpose
  • Possession of a firearm with tampered serial number
  • Mischief under $5,000
  • Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000
  • Uttering threats
  • Disguise with intent to commit an offence
  • Careless use of a firearm
  • Assault with a weapon

Alanda Sisson, 31-year-old female resident of Woodland County, was charged with:

  • Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000
  • Alter/destroy/remove a vehicle identification number (VIN)
  • Possession of a weapon for dangerous purpose
  • Possession of a firearm with tampered serial number
  • Possession of a restricted firearm/prohibited weapon without licence

The male suspect was remanded into custody and appeared in court on Sept. 8; the female suspect was released and is to appear in court on Sept. 22.

by Nathaniel Leigh