High River RCMP arrest driver of stolen, pursued vehicle
High River RCMP were busy last week as they had a major vehicle pursuit.
On July 31, in the late afternoon, Okotoks and High River RCMP were involved in a vehicle pursuit that originated when an Okotoks RCMP officer attempted to arrest a male in a stolen vehicle.
The pursuit was called off when the suspect’s manner of driving became dangerous to both police and public safety.
Video from the police vehicles provided investigators with photos that would eventually help to identify the driver.
At noon on Wednesday, August 1, High River RCMP received a complaint of a suspicious male and truck in the rural area west of High River.
Officers were advised the complainant located a truck that appeared to have been spray painted hidden on his property.
The complainant told officers he saw a male walking eastbound from his property. Officers quickly attended the area and located a male that an officer involved in the previous day’s pursuit recognized as the driver of the vehicle being pursued.
Michael Hautala of Golden, BC was arrested and has been charged with numerous offences including:
· Possession of Stolen property exceeding $5000; · Possession of Stolen property not exceeding $5000;
· Fail to comply with a Recognizance;
· Possession of a Prohibited Weapon;
· Flight from Police;
· Resist a Police Officer;
· Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle; · Mischief;
· Numerous Traffic Safety Act offences.
“This arrest has allowed charges from multiple police jurisdictions to be brought before the courts,” says Sgt. Jason Cann of the High River RCMP.
“This is a perfect example of public and police collaboration resulting in crime reduction. We appreciate this and encourage community members to continue reporting suspicious events.”
If you have information about this incident, please call the High River RCMP at 403-652-2357 or call your local police.
High River RCMP investigate mischief to a local business
On July 21, High River RCMP received a complaint of mischief to the 7-11 store.
At approximately 6 p.m. that date, a 7-11 employee observed that a north window of the business had been damaged by what appeared to be a round from a pellet or a BB gun. Officers would appreciate anyone who witnessed this incident or has information about who is responsible contacting the High River RCMP detachment.
If you have information about this incident, please call the High River RCMP at 403-652-2357 or call your local police.
If you want to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers by phone at 1-800-2228477 (TIPS), by internet at www.tipsubmit.com, or by SMS (check your local Crime Stoppers www.crimestoppers.ab.ca for instructions).