RCMP lay charges in string of thefts from oil well sites

By Rob Vogt, Local Press Writer

The RCMP have laid several charges in connection with a string of thefts from oil well sites in the area.

Between Nov. 26 and 27, Claresholm and Nanton RCMP received several complaints of batteries being stolen from various oil well sites in the area. During the investigation, Claresholm and Nanton RCMP were alerted to a possible location of the stolen batteries in the Calgary area.

On Nov. 27, Nanton RCMP attended a location in the Calgary area and were able recover 47 batteries.

On Nov. 28, Nanton RCMP with the assistance of the Calgary Police Service, were able to locate and arrest one adult female and one adult male who are now facing numerous charges.

The value of the recovered batteries is believed to be approximately $23,000.

Justin Edwin Aaron Dalton, 31, of Calgary has been charged with:

  • Four counts of failure to comply with recognizance;
  • Two counts of possession of stolen property over $5,000;
  • Two counts of possession of stolen property under $5,000;
  • Trafficking in property obtained by crime over $5,000;
  • Trafficking in property obtained by crime under $5,000.
  • Alexandra Mae Smith, 25, of Calgary has been charged with:
  • Two counts of possession of stolen property over $5,000;
  • Two counts of possession of stolen property under $5,000;
  • Trafficking in property obtained by crime over $5,000;
  • Trafficking in property obtained by crime under $5,000.

Dalton and Smith were remanded into custody and appeared in Calgary Provincial Court on Dec. 3.