RCMP lay multiple charges against Calgary men in relation to thefts

By Rob Vogt, Local Press Writer
The RCMP have charged two Calgary men with multiple offences related to recent break and enter and theft in Claresholm.
At 6:53 a.m. on May 27, the RCMP received reports of a break and enter in progress in a residential garage in the 5000 block of 3A Street in Claresholm.
Members from the Nanton RCMP detachment attended the area and quickly located and arrested a suspect departing the area on foot.
The suspect was found to be in possession of several stolen items from various break and enters, break-in instruments, and an imitation handgun. A second suspect was located nearby in a suspect vehicle, a white 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche, and was arrested.
The suspect vehicle was found to contain several items such as tools believed to be stolen. Also located in the vehicle was a Taser, firearm ammunition, and other break-in instruments.
Investigators believe and allege the two suspects were also involved in an occurrence earlier in the morning involving a report of two suspects loading and moving a suspected stolen motorcycle in the Nanton area. Further investigation, including by Claresholm RCMP members, led to the discovery and recovery of a stolen 2011 Husqvarna motorcycle and a stolen 2011 enclosed cargo trailer from Lethbridge.
“Public awareness and involvement played a key role in the apprehension of two suspects that were actively involved in property crimes and in the recovery of stolen property including a motorcycle and cargo trailer. The public is encouraged to continue being observant and to report all suspicious activity,” said Sergeant Rob Harms of the Claresholm and Nanton RCMP.
Michael Tracey, 44, of Calgary was charged with a total of 27 criminal offences as follows:
• Possession of a weapon, ammunition, and/or explosive substance while prohibited, six counts;
• Break and enter with intent;
• Possession of break-in instruments;
• Possession of Stolen Property over $5,000, two counts
• Possession of stolen property under $5,000;
• Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, two counts;
• Possession of a prohibited weapon, two counts;
• Carrying a concealed weapon;
• Operating a motor vehicle while prohibited;
• Failing to comply with a release order condition, nine counts.
Tracey was taken before a justice of the peace for a judicial interim release hearing. His matters were held over for a bail hearing on May 30 in Lethbridge Provincial Court.
William Douglas, 37, of Calgary was charged with a total of six criminal offences as follows:
• Possession of stolen property under $5,000;
• Possession of break-in instruments;
• Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose;
• Possession of a prohibited weapon;
• Possession of Stolen Property over $5,000, two counts.
Douglas was released on an appearance notice and is scheduled to appear in Fort Macleod Provincial Court on July 20, to answer to the charges.
The RCMP continue to investigate this occurrence, the two suspects, and the recovered stolen property.
If you have any information regarding this matter, please contact the Claresholm RCMP at 403-625-4445.
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.