Millet residents concerned about a recent rash of break and enters may have cause for relief after one local man has been arrested in connection to the crimes.
Ryan Tyler Young, 34, was arrested last weekend in Edmonton, apparently linked to an unrelated issue. However, RCMP had been looking for Young to question him about crimes in Millet according to Wetaskiwin detachment’s Cst. Holly Porterfield.
“The Wetaskiwin RCMP have laid charges in relation to the resent spree of thefts from vehicles in Millet,” stated Cst. Porterfield in a June 15 press release.
“Police had identified the suspect last week, but were unable to locate him so warrants were issued for his arrest. Young, 34, of Millet was picked up by police in Edmonton on the weekend for an unrelated matter, and remains in custody there.
“Assistance from the public was an important part of this investigation, and the RCMP General Investigative Section played a key role in identifying Young.”
Porterfield noted the best way to prevent crime is to “crimeproof” your property. “Even though police have a suspect in custody, citizens should remember that it is still very important for everyone to remove all valuables from their vehicles and lock the doors,” she noted.
“The issue of thefts from motor vehicles is one that is affecting all communities. We see very few instances were windows are broken so that access can be gained to a vehicle. This causes noise, which draws attention. Thieves do not like to attract attention, so already unlocked doors are the perfect attraction.
Porterfield noted the arrest was in relation to a rash of thefts from motor vehicles that occurred in the Moonen Heights area of Millet. Several complaints were received by the police on the morning of May 29. Entry was gained to at least nine vehicles, and an unknown ride-on lawnmower was left on one victim’s lawn. It appears that the suspects were looking for easy cash as two wallets were taken and the money out of a third. All of the vehicles had been rummaged through, and some victims remain unsure of what, if anything was taken.
Police remind the public to call your local RCMP at 780-312-7267, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS(8477) if you have information on any crime. You do not need to provide your identity to Crime Stoppers, and if you your information leads to an arrest or the recovery of property, you could be eligible for a cash donation.