Four males have been arrested and charged and one male is wanted for their involvement in a crime ring that focussed primarily on shops and outbuildings on rural properties around Brandon. The suspects are responsible for the thefts of numerous trucks, snowmobiles, ATVs, firearms and a variety of tools. The thefts occurred across western Manitoba. Investigation determined the break-ins were all related to the same group of suspects. Two search warrants executed in Brandon and Carberry in January resulted in numerous stolen goods being recovered, including five firearms. Some of the stolen items have since been returned to their rightful owners, however many items still remain unclaimed and police are working to identify and return the items to the owners. Charged with theft and firearm offences are Curtis Sutherland, 23, of Ebb and Flow First Nation; Nicholas McKay, 23, of Brandon; Quinn Starr, 23, of Carberry; and Preston Whitford, 22, of the RM of Alonsa. An arrest warrant has been issued for the arrest of Richard Cole Ross, 23, of Brandon in relation to the thefts. Police would like to remind property owners to never leave keys in their vehicles; lock them and keep valuables out of sight. The RCMP Forensic Identification Unit in Brandon; Major Crime Services in Brandon; Brandon, Blue Hills Area, Carberry, Souris and Killarney Detachments; and the Brandon Police Service continue to investigate. Anyone with information is asked to contact Brandon RCMP at 204-726-7519 or call Manitoba Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477, submit a secure tip online at www.manitobacrimestoppers.com or text “TIPMAN” plus your message to CRIMES (274637). |
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