Over 100 people have been identified as victims in a massive stolen property investigation that was conducted by the RCMP Southern Alberta District Crime Reduction Unit (CRU) earlier this month.

According to police, jewelry, electronics, personal identity documents, tools, collectables, break-in tool kits, high-end fashion items and mail were among the items seized.

Over 100 people have been identified as victims in a massive stolen property investigation that was conducted by the RCMP Southern Alberta District Crime Reduction Unit (CRU) earlier this month.Over 100 people have been identified as victims in a massive stolen property investigation that was conducted by the RCMP Southern Alberta District Crime Reduction Unit (CRU) earlier this month.

"In February of 2023, the RCMP Southern Alberta District Crime Reduction Unit (CRU) began an investigation into a series of residential break and enters in Foothills County. At least three homes were entered, damaged, and various valuable items were stolen," a police press release stated.

RCMP Southern Alberta District CRU executed two search warrants on residences in Calgary on February 15 with the assistance of Okotoks RCMP, Cochrane RCMP CRU, Airdrie RCMP CRU, and Calgary Police Service.

"The searches resulted in the recovery of stolen property from the residential break and enters, as well as other previously reported thefts. RCMP Southern Alberta CRU continues to investigate the quantity of stolen property."

35-year-old Matthew Grouette and 38-year-old James Lennie both residents of Calgary have been charged with: 

  • Break and Enter
  • Possession of stolen property
  • Possession of break-in tools
  • Fail to comply with a release order

Cpl. Cory Burton of RCMP Southern Alberta District CRU said that The RCMP Southern Alberta Crime Reduction Unit is committed to identifying and disrupting property crime.

"[We are] taking a targeted approach to prolific property crime offenders in southern Alberta.”

At the time of these offences, both Matthew Grouette and James Lennie were on a release order with conditions for similar offences. Another person was arrested during the investigation and charges are pending in relation to the stolen property that was located. 

After a judicial interim hearing, Matthew Grouette was held in custody and will be appearing in Okotoks Provincial court on March 10, 2023, while James Lennie was held in custody and will be appearing in Okotoks Provincial Court on February 24. 

Residents in Foothills County are encouraged to continue to report suspicious activity to the police. 

Anyone with further information related to these residential breaks and enters is encouraged to contact their local RCMP detachment or e-mail RCMP.KSADCRT-KSADCRT.GRC@rcmp-grc.gc.ca.

If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), or online at www.P3Tips.com.

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