This week the Rimbey RCMP responded to more than 50 calls for service. These are actual caseload files and not just the day-to-day client services offered at the front counter and over the telephone. This busy week included many collisions, domestics, thefts, a car chase, and other criminal matters.
Weather creates issues for drivers
After we finally got a break in the weather from the dreary summer rain, the area was hit with freezing rain and snow followed by terrible fog this week. This created issues for some drivers that resulted in many collisions. Police investigated more than a dozen, including a hit and run.
In one case, a driver ran off Highway 20 and smashed through a fence. He then fled the area without making any attempt to contact the property owner or police to report the damages to the property. Apparently, the driver even returned later to the scene to pick up any evidence he may have left to link him to the damages but missed one minor detail.
Police officers attending the scene sifted through the grass, dirt and snow and located a prescription with the registered owners name on it. The driver denied any knowledge of the collision at first when police contacted him but quickly changed his tune once he learned he forgot to completely pick up all the debris at the scene. The adult male driver from Rimbey has been charged in this case.
Police were also referees, marriage counsellors and lawmen at several domestics. Many cases involved children and Child Services intake workers assisted police in attempts of making the homes peaceful again. In one case, a child abuse investigation was initiated by members for an offence that allegedly occurred elsewhere in the Province and is still ongoing.
Rimbey helps in pursuit
Rimbey members assisted Red Deer and Sylvan Lake members with a car chase that came our way from the city. The pursuit ended when a member shot the tires out of the vehicle and the man was taken into custody by the Rimbey officer at the scene. The adult male from Red Deer was taken to jail in Sylvan Lake where he faces many criminal charges.
Hunting accessories found
A would-be hunter lost a Rubber Maid container on the road near the Leedale Colony that contained knives, bullets and other hunting gear. This should make the deer happy come Nov. 1.
Don’t drink and drive
Rimbey RCMP members continue to step up their campaign to reduce the number of impaired drivers in the area. Several more 24-hour roadside suspensions were handed out, as well as some hefty tickets.
Please take steps ahead of time if you plan to partake in sprits away from home. Call a friend, take a taxi, get a hotel room, anything — just don't get behind the wheel and put others as well as yourself in jeopardy. If you do see a drunk driver, please don't hesitate call 9-1-1 immediately.
If you have any information on these or any other crimes, please call the Rimbey RCMP detachment at (403) 843-2224 or Crime Stoppers: 1-800-222-8477; #8477 on Telus Mobility; or *8477 on Rogers AT&T.
Crime Stoppers is a community program that does work. Do your part and call now.