INSIDE SCOOP

FEBRUARY 3^RD – 9^TH

On February 3^rd, police received a complaint of a semi with an unlatched trailer door travelling westbound on Highway 14. Police were not in a position to intercept the vehicle in question and the information was passed on to Tofield RCMP.

That evening, police received a report of an injured deer on Highway 36. Police attended and located the animal already deceased and moved to the side of the roadway.

On February 4^th, police were advised of a dispute between 2 males over the return of personal property. After learning the details of the dispute, police determined the matter was civil in nature and there were no grounds for them to get involved. The complainant was advised.

Later that morning, police received a complaint of a fraud that had occurred a few days prior. The complainant advised someone had accessed his bank account and started transferring funds out of it. He had attended his bank and stopped the transactions and taken steps to secure his account. The investigation into this matter is ongoing.

On February 5^th, police received a 911 call of semi truck pulling 2 tanker trailers eastbound on Highway 14 and one of the trailers appeared to be on fire.  A second call was received shortly after advising the truck was pulled over and 2 males were attempting to put the fire out. The fire department was dispatched to the location and when police arrived on scene, the fire was already being extinguished. Fortunately, no injuries were incurred and police are continuing to follow up on this incident.

That same day, police received a complaint of threats being uttered.  The complainant advised that her friend had received information from an acquaintance that a person from Edmonton was on her way to Viking to cause harm to her. Police attended and assisted with moving the complainant and her family to a safe location while the investigation was evolving.  Edmonton Police Service was contacted and one of their officers was able to advise the person in question was at her residence in Edmonton and not enroute to Viking.  Police continued to monitor the situation that night and helped the complainant with a safety plan going forward.

On February 6^th, police received a complaint of an erratic driver westbound on Highway 14. The complainant advised the vehicle was currently near Holden so the information was passed on to Tofield RCMP as Viking members were not able to attend and intercept the vehicle in question.

On February 7^th, police received a complaint of threats being uttered. The complainant advised he had received several phone calls from a male threatening to harm him.  The complainant did not want to proceed with charges and requested police speak with the male in question and warn him about his behavior. Police spoke with the male and updated the complainant who refused to provide any further information that would assist police with the investigation.

Later that day, police received a request to check on the wellbeing of a person in Viking who had not been heard from in 2 weeks. The complainant advised the person was not answering her calls or responding to texts.  Police attended the residence of the person in question and she was fine. The complainant was updated.

Inside Scoop

JANUARY 27^th – FEBRUARY 2^ND

On January 27^th, police received a complaint of a theft.  The complainant advised that a roommate is taking property from their residence.   The complainant, along with the homeowner confronted the roommate who admitted to taking the items and returned them.   The homeowner requested assistance with removing the roommate.  The homeowner was advised it was a civil matter and to address the roommate himself.

On January 29^th, police received a request from Fish and Wildlife with a moose in distress in a ditch south of Viking.   Members were advised and assisted with the situation.

That same morning, police received a report of a motor vehicle collision in Viking.  A report was received from one of the occupants, police are following up with the other driver.

On January 30^th, police responded to a wellbeing check on a subject.  The complainant requested a check be done on an occupant that is currenting living at the complainant’s address.  Members attended the residence along with the assistance of the RCMP Regional Police and Crisis Team.  The subject was located and transported to the Viking Health Centre for further assessment.

On January 31^st, police received a complaint of an assault with a weapon.  The complainant advised that his son struck him in the head with an alcohol bottle, causing injuries to the complainant.  This matter is still under investigation.

That same morning, police responded to a complaint of a vehicle parked on the street for several days.  The complainant felt is may be stolen.  Members located the vehicle and determined it  belonged to a resident in the area.  The vehicle was parked legally and had not been reported stolen.

Later that morning, a found walled was turned into police.   The owner of the wallet was identified and the wallet was returned to the owner.

That same morning, police received a complaint of a possible fraud.  The complainant advised an elderly subject was purchasing several gift cards from a local business.  The subject stated they were for a grandchild.  Members contacted the subject who did not want to provide any information to the police.  

Early that afternoon, police received a complaint of a fraud that occurred through Facebook Market Place.  The complainant advised he was selling a boat on marketplace when he started having a conversation with a possible buyer.  The buyer requested a vehicle inspection be completed on the HIN number of the boat.  The buyer then forwarded a link to the complainant to complete with personal information and a credit card number.  The complainant completed the form and sent it, however quickly realized it was a scam and contacted his credit card company immediately and put the card on hold.  The card was later cancelled.

On February 1^st, police responded to a break and enter.  The complainant advised that two people broke into his house and are currently hiding in the attic.  Members attended the residence and completed a search; no subjects were located.   Police spoke with the complainant who admitted to smoking drugs earlier and having a history of mental health.   The subject did not pose a threat to himself or the public.

During routine patrols on February 1^st, a cube van was observed parked on highway 14. Members conducted a traffic stop, upon speaking with the driver he stated the vehicle was broke down and is currently waiting for a tow truck.

That evening, police responded to a motor vehicle struck on the train tracks east of Viking.  When members arrived, they located the vehicle high centred on the train tracks.  CN was contacted to stop the train until police are able to have it removed.  The driver and passenger were located outside of the vehicle in extremely cold temperatures.  The subjects were not dressed for the weather and one of the subjects was noted to not be wearing footwear.  They were placed in the police vehicle and spoken to, they advised the GPS instructed them in that direction.  A third passenger was located intoxicated outside of the vehicle, due to the level of intoxication, and possibility of frost bite EMS was dispatched to the location.  The subject was transported to the hospital, where members assisted with restraining the subject so hospital staff could assess her.  The subject was assessed and released to police, she was  incarcerated for the night and released from custody once sober.  The vehicle was towed off the tracks and the subjects continued on their way.  CN was advised of the removal.

JANUARY 20^TH – 26^TH

On January 20^th, police received a complaint of an abandoned snowmobile in a field north of Viking. The complainant advised she had seen it in the morning on her way to work and it was still sitting there when she was on her way home. Police attended and then contacted the registered owner who advised the snowmobile had been stolen from a rural property in Lamont County a few days prior. Police have no suspects at this time.

On January 21^st, police started an investigation regarding information they had received a few days prior involving the theft of property from a residence in Viking. The investigation is ongoing.

Also that morning, police received a report of an injured moose on Highway 14 east of Viking. Police attended and dealt with the issue with the assistance of an Emcon employee.

Late that night, police received an open line 911 call.  A male and female could be heard arguing in a vehicle. A cell phone ping showed the vehicle was heading south on Highway 36. Police attended the location and attempted a traffic stop on a vehicle however the vehicle failed to stop and fled the area.  Police were able to identify the possible involved parties and spoke with both of them a few days later. Both advised they were fine and did not want any further police involvement.  Police did not have sufficient grounds to pursue any charges.

On January 22^nd, police received a complaint of a jackknifed semi at the intersection of Highways 36 and 26 southwest of Viking. Police attended and spoke with the driver who advised he had been attempting to slow for the intersection but due to the icy road conditions, lost control of the truck and partially entered the ditch while still blocking both driving lanes. Police stayed on scene and directed traffic until the vehicle could be towed.

On January 24^th, police received a report of a westbound semi on Highway 14 driving erratically. Police made a patrol but did not locate the vehicle in question.

On January 25^th, police received a report of a truck stuck in the ditch east of Viking. Police arrived on scene and could see 3 males sitting inside the vehicle. Investigation revealed the truck had been reported stolen from Bruderheim, AB on January 12^th.  The male in the driver’s seat was arrested and taken into custody.  A search of the vehicle also found break-in tools and ammunition that was not stored properly. Stephen LUNDGREN of Sturgeon County has been charged with Possession of Property Obtained by Crime, Failing to Comply with Conditions of an Undertaking, Careless Transportation of Ammunition, Possession of Break-In Tools, Failing to Comply with a Condition of a Release Order. He was transported to the Killam RCMP Detachment for a Judicial Interim Release Hearing and was remanded into custody. He will be appearing in Vegreville Provincial Court this week. The investigation into this matter is ongoing.

That afternoon, police received a complaint of a truck driving erratically on Highway 36.  Patrols were made but the vehicle in question was not located.

Inside Scoop

JANUARY 13th – 19th

On January 13th, police received a report of a vehicle in the ditch on highway 14 near range road 130. Police attended the location and spoke with the driver, who stated they were blinded by the lights of an oncoming semi with a lightbar and the poor road conditions causing her to enter the ditch. The tow company was called and the vehicle was removed from the ditch and the driver continued on their way.

On January 14th, a request was received from Lethbridge Police Service to assist with the execution of a warrant for a subject that may be living in the Viking area. Members are continuing to attempt to locate the subject.

That afternoon, police received a complaint of a break and enter into a residence. The complainant advised that her residence was broken into by previous tenants before her rental agreement was due. The landlord was contacted and police learned the landlord requested the previous tenants attend the residence to ensure the windows were shut and to turn the furnace down. All parties were advised this was a landlord tenant act issue and to contact their lawyers for further guidance.

Early that evening, police received complaints of a vehicle in the ditch on highway 14 near range road 134. When members arrived the located a lone male attempting to dig his vehicle out of the ditch. Police obtained the drivers name and determined he currently had a warrant out of Calgary. The subject was arrested and later released from police custody to appear in Calgary at a later date. The subject refused a tow and wanted to continue digging his vehicle out. Police advised the subject to keep his cell phone charged in the event he needed to call for further assistance.

That same evening, police were contacted by EMS dispatch advising they had an ambulance that was flagged down on highway 36 south of Viking. EMS advised the complainant stated there was a vehicle parked on the roadside, they were unsure if it was abandoned of it there was a subject still inside. Members were dispatched to the location and the vehicle was located, a subject was inside and determined to be the same subject members had dealt with earlier. The subject advised he was just resting before driving back to Edmonton. The subject was advised to go to Viking and find a place there to rest.

On January 15th, police received a request from a subject to obtain his financial documents from a business. Members attended and spoke with the business owner who will contact the complainant and get everything straightened out.

On January 16th, a complaint of a theft from a business was received. Members spoke to the complainant who advised they witnessed two subjects taking property from a donation box

outside of a business. Possible subjects were identified and police are continuing to investigate this theft.

That same morning, police received a report of a theft of a car from a rural residence in the Kinsella area. This matter is still under investigation.

Later that afternoon, police received a call from Safe Tracks, advising a subject currently with an ankle monitoring system is breaching a condition on his release order. The subject was outside of his residence without approval from his probation officer. Members were then advised the subject had returned home. A call was placed to his probation officer and the subject did have an appointment today however safe tracks was not advised of the appointment. There was no breach of the condition at this time.

That evening, police responded to a vehicle in the ditch on highway 14 near range road 154. The complainant’s vehicle was stuck in the ditch and due to the current weather conditions was unable to get a tow or assistance from a family member. The complainant was given a ride to the Viking Inn for the night.

On January 17th, police responded to a panic alarm at the Vialta Lodge, when members arrive they were advised it was a false alarm.

That evening, police responded to a disturbance at a facility in Viking. Members attended along with EMS the subject was calmed down and transported to a medial facility for further assessment. Medical staff requested members remain on scene until the subject was calm enough for staff to complete their assessment.

During the evening of January 18th, police received a call from a subject advising he was currently on house arrest with a monitoring system. The subject stated he is on his way to the hospital as he had hurt his hand and required medical attention. Members attended the hospital, the subject was located and found the subject received medial attention and was being released to return home.

On January 19th, members were alerted that a subject currently under a safe track ankle monitoring system was travelling to the hospital for medical attention. Members attended a local gas station before attending the medical facility, when they arrived at the location a vehicle was noted at the business that possibly belonged to the subject. When members entered the business, the subject was located inside purchasing product from the business. The subject was arrested for breaching his conditions and is facing three charges of breach. The subject was held for a judicial interim hearing, which resulted in his bail being denied and the subject was remanded into custody and transported to the Edmonton Remand Centre. He is scheduled to appear in court via closed circuit television at a later date.

That same afternoon, police received a complaint from the health centre. Staff advised they located drug paraphernalia in the washroom at the facility. It is believed to belong to a patient

that was currently in custody with the police. Members attended the health centre and seized the items. This matter is still under investigation.

JANUARY 6^TH – 12^TH

On January 6^th, police received a report of a vehicle stuck in the ditch near the intersection of Highway 14 and Secondary 615. The complainant was concerned the driver might be intoxicated.  When police arrived on scene they learned the vehicle had been pulled from the ditch and departed eastbound on Highway 14. Police made patrols and passed the information on to Wainwright RCMP but the vehicle in question was not located.

On January 9^th, police were advised of a suspicious vehicle that had been parked overnight at a rural location in the Kinsella area.  Police spoke with the driver of the vehicle who advised he was fine and would depart the area. 

That afternoon, police received a complaint of a suspicious occurrence at a business in Bruce.  The complainant advised security footage showed a vehicle had drove onto the property during the early morning hours and a male had got out and walked up to the business, peered into the window, knocked on the door and then the vehicle departed.  Nothing appeared to be stolen and no damage was found.

Later that day, police received a complaint of an ongoing dispute between family members. The complainant advised one of the residents was no longer welcome in the home and had been told to leave but he was refusing to do so.  Police spoke with the complainant and mediated the situation. Police had no grounds to pursue any charges in this matter.

On January 11^th, police received a request to check on the wellbeing of a youth in the area. Police spoke with the person in question and she advised she was fine and did not disclose any concerns.  The complainant was updated.  Children’s Services is also following up with the family.

Inside Scoop

DECEMBER 30^th – JANUARY 5^TH

On December 30^th, police received a request for police assistance in retrieving property from a neighbour.  The property was located and returned to the complainant.  All parties were advised that the matter was civil in nature and to contact a lawyer for legal guidance.

On December 31^st, a complaint of an erratic driver on highway 14 was received.  Police were unable to contact the complainant for further information.  Police did not locate the vehicle.

On January 2^nd, police received a complaint of a motor vehicle collision that occurred in the AG Foods parking lot.  The complainant provided police with all of his information and provided a motor vehicle collision statement.  Police will be contacting the other party involved in order to complete the report.

Later that evening, a complaint of an abandoned vehicle in the complainant’s driveway was received.  Police attended the location and determined the vehicle had significant front-end damage.  Checks were conducted and the vehicle was involved in a collision, the vehicle was towed to the wrong address.  The complainant was advised to contact the tow company and have it removed.

On January 3^rd, police responded to a neighbor dispute.  When members arrived, they learned that the complainant had a neighbor helping with her chores to work off community service hours.  The complainant no longer wanted the assistance and the neighbor became upset and started harassing the complainant.  Members located the subject and warned him to cease any contact with the complainant. 

That afternoon, police received a complaint of theft.  The complainant advised that she was missing property from her shed.  Members attended the location and no evidence was located on scene to continue the investigation.  The complainant was updated.

On January 4^th, police responded to a complaint of a subject walking on highway 14.  Members located a 29-year-old male walking down the highway.  He was given a ride to a gas station in Holden.

Inside Scoop

DECEMBER 16^th – 29^{th. 2024}

On December 17^th, police received a report of an injured deer in distress in a ditch east of Kinsella. Fish and Wildlife were contacted and assisted with the situation.

That afternoon, police received a complaint of a vehicle parked improperly on a residential street in Viking. Police spoke with the registered owner and then were able to inform the driver to move the vehicle and park it properly.

Later that day, police received a complaint of person outside of his parked vehicle trying to wave down traffic on Highway 14. Police made patrols in the area but the person and his vehicle were no longer on scene and not located anywhere nearby.

On December 19^th, police received a request to complete a wellbeing check.  The complainant advised he has been trying to get a hold of a friend and there is no answer.  The complainant advised the subject lives alone and is concerned for her.  The complainant contacted police a short time later and advised he was able to contact his friend and police assistance was no longer required.

That evening, police responded to a complaint of suspicious vehicles at a rural location.  When police arrived on scene they located 3 vehicles and a trailer.  One of the vehicles was attached to the trailer and the vehicle on the trailer appeared to have slid off.  The other vehicle attended to assist with the subjects.  Members recognized the subjects and conducted checks on them and the vehicles.  It was determined that one of the vehicles had been stolen out of Lamont the day prior.  A 24-year-old male was arrested and will be facing charges of possession of stolen property.  The vehicle was towed and the registered owner was notified.  The other subjects were advised to continue on their way.

On December 20^th, police received a complaint of an erratic driver.  The complainant advised of a Ford F250 passing when it was not safe.  The complainant advised that vehicle was driving unsafe for the road conditions.  Members were unable to locate the vehicle in question.

On December 21^st, police responded to a complaint of a vehicle in the ditch near Kinsella.  The complainant observed the vehicle in the ditch and due to the extreme foggy conditions was concerned for the driver.  Members attended the scene and located tracks into the ditch but the vehicle had already been removed.

On December 23^rd, police received a complaint of possible theft from mail in Viking.  This matter is still under investigation.

On December 25^th, police were advised of a stranded motorist on Highway 14 near Kinsella. The complainant advised his vehicle had broke down but he had managed to pull over on to the shoulder of the road. He was provided with the phone numbers of 3 different tow companies in the area that might be able to provide assistance to him.  That night, police received a report of an abandoned vehicle at this same location. They determined it to be the same vehicle that had been reported as broken down earlier in the day. Police attended and had it towed. The driver was updated on the new location of his vehicle.

On December 28^th, police received a complaint of an assault that had just taken place outside of a business in Viking.  Police attended and found the complainant to be intoxicated. A check of security footage in the area showed the complainant enticing another male to fight. Police determined the fight was consensual and instigated by the complainant and therefore, no assault had taken place.  He was updated on the results of the investigation.

On December 29^th, police received a report of people trespassing at a vacant rural property in the Bruce area.  Police attended the location and did not see any evidence of movement from the entrance. The complainant did not wish police to enter and clear the property. He was advised to report back to police if he found anything to be missing or damaged on the property.

During this period, police issued numerous violation tickets for various traffic offences.

Inside Scoop

DECEMBER 9^TH – 15^TH

On December 9^th, police received a complaint of fraudulent purchases made with a credit card. The complainant reported he used his credit card at a local gas station and later that night was advised of 5-6 fraudulent charges by his credit card company.  He was concerned there might be a card skimmer at the gas station. His card was cancelled and replaced and the fraudulent charges were reversed.

That afternoon, police conducted a well-being check on an individual after receiving information of possible domestic abuse occurring. The person in question was spoken to and stated she did not want police involvement at this time.

On December 10^th, police received a call for assistance in removing an unwanted person from a residence in Viking.   The complainant called back a short time later and advised the person in question had departed and he did not want police to attend.

On December 11^th, police received a complaint of an abandoned vehicle parked in front of a residence in Bruce.  The complainant was concerned it might be a stolen vehicle. Police were able to contact the person who had been driving the vehicle and determined it had not been stolen. It was later removed by the driver and the complainant was updated.

On December 12^th, CN Police advised that a vehicle had struck a crossing gate causing damage to it. CN had their techs enroute and just wanted police aware.

That evening, police received a complaint of an erratic driver westbound on Highway 14. Police made patrols in the area but did not locate the vehicle in question.

On December 15^th, police received a complaint of an erratic driver on Highway 14. A patrol was made and the vehicle in question was located parked on a side road.  The driver provided a breath sample on an approved screening device as well as performed a Field Sobriety test and passed both. She advised she was tired and had pulled over to rest. She was warned about her driving and allowed to carry on her way.

That same night, police conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle that was exceeding the speed limit. The driver was issued a violation ticket for driving a motor vehicle without licence plates properly displayed.

Viking RCMP would like to thank everyone who came out and supported the “Stuff the Cruiser” event held on December 13^th  in support of our local Christmas Hamper program.  Your generosity is much appreciated.  Word on the Street will return in the New Year. Merry Christmas to all and please stay safe over the holiday season.

Inside scoop

DECEMBER 2nd – 8th

On December 2nd, police were notified of an enclosed trailer that fell of a truck and was in the ditch.  The owner advised he was making arrangements to have the trailer towed.

On December 3rd, police received a complaint of a vehicle on the side of highway 14 near Kinsella.  The complainant advised the vehicle was parked on a curve causing a hazard on the highway.  The vehicle was located, and noted to be missing a front tire.  Checks of the vehicle were completed and determined the vehicle was stolen.  The investigation into this matter is continuing.

On December 4th, police conducted a check on a subject who is on court conditions to abide by a curfew.  The subject was not located, a charge of failing to comply is pending.

Early that afternoon, police received a complaint of an abandoned vehicle on highway 26.  The complainant advised the vehicle has been parked there for over two weeks.  The vehicle was towed and the registered owner is being notified.

That same afternoon, police received a complaint of a motor vehicle collision involving a pedestrian.  The complainant advised while crossing the street she was struck by a motor vehicle.  The complainant advised she was uninjured.  This matter is still under investigation.

That evening, police received a complaint of a fraud.  The complainant advised that he paid for a product that he found on Facebook marketplace.  The complainant attempted several times to contact the suspect, the suspect then blocked the complainant’s number and the product was never obtained.  This matter is still under investigation.

That same evening, police received a complaint of a stolen motor vehicle.  The vehicle was parked on 50 Street in Viking and was stolen.  This investigation is ongoing.

On December 6th, police responded to an abandoned vehicle northwest of Viking backed into an approached.  Members located the vehicle and determined the vehicle was owned by a subject who lived in the area.  The vehicle had broken down and the owner was in the process of getting it repaired.

That afternoon, police received a request to conduct a wellbeing check on a resident in Viking.  The complainant advised the subject did not pick up their meal from meals on wheels the day before.  Members attended the location and located he subject who advised there was no medical emergency and he was okay.

On December 7th, police received a request to assist with the notification of the location of property.  The complainant advised he was removing property from his residence that belonged to an ex-tenant.  He advised the property will be put outside the residence on the curb.  The subject was advised of the location of the property.

During this time period, police also dealt with several motor vehicle collisions involving deer and issued violation tickets and warnings for various traffic offences.

Canadians are being warned about a gift card scam that is happening across the country, which involves the manipulation of the bar code on the back of the gift card.  Gift cards are a popular choice during the holidays due to their convenience and ease of use. However, they are also vulnerable to fraud. The Retail Council of Canada estimates losses of $3.8 million in 2021 due to gift card fraud.  Scammers take the cards home, put the stickers on, and hang them back up in the stores. The victim then pays for the card at the cash, but the funds end up on the card the scammer has at home that is linked to the sticker barcode.  One way to avoid being scammed is to send a virtual gift card, which is sent directly to the recipient's email. If you still want to give a physical gift like a gift card but don't want to risk it being tampered with, you can always opt for cash.

Inside Scoop

NOVEMBER 25^TH – DECEMBER 1^ST

On November 25^th, police received a report of a vehicle that was broken into sometime over the previous few days. Police have no suspects at this time.

Later that morning, police were advised of a person who had concerns for the well being of a family member.  Police spoke referred the matter to the Regional Police and Crisis Team for their follow up.

That afternoon, police received complaints from two businesses that had received payment with a counterfeit $100 bill.  Police are continuing to follow up on these matters.

That night, police received a report of a possible impaired driver in Viking.  The complainant had witnessed the person in question drive away from a facility but was unable to provide a direction of travel. Police made patrols but did not locate the vehicle.

Early on November 26^th, police received a complaint of an abandoned vehicle that was partially blocking a driving lane on Highway 26 southwest of Viking.  Police were unable to make contact with the registered owner so had the vehicle towed as it was a traffic hazard. Police later spoke with the owner and updated her on the location of her vehicle.

On November 28^th, police received a complaint of a possible impaired driver in Viking.  Police made a patrol of the area and located the person in question.  After speaking with the driver, it was determined he was not impaired.  The complainant was updated.

That same morning, police were advised of an assault on a youth by another youth.  Police spoke with both parties and their parents.  It was decided that no charge would be pursued at this time and the subject of the complaint was given a warning regarding his behaviour.

That evening, police received a complaint of an erratic driver westbound on Highway 26.  Police were not in a position to intercept the vehicle in question so the complaint was passed on to Tofield RCMP for their follow up.

During this time period police also dealt with several minor traffic collisions involving deer. 

As the Christmas season with all of its’ festivities is upon us, police would like to remind the public to always plan ahead for a safe ride home when going out to celebrate the season. Please don’t drink and drive so you can Arrive Alive!

Inside Scoop

NOVEMBER 18^th – 24^th 

On November 18^th, police received a complaint of a break and enter at a rural property northwest of Viking.   The complainant advised that his shop was broken into and several tools were stolen.  There was no evidence or surveillance for police to follow up on.   Police have no suspects at this time.

That afternoon, a complaint of an abandoned vehicle with a Saskatchewan licence plate was received.  The complainant advised of a semi truck that was has been parked on a rural road for the past 3 days.  Members contacted the registered owner and determined the truck was not stolen, it had broken down and the owner is making arrangements to have it repaired and removed.   The complainant was updated.

On November 19^th, police received a complaint of a suspicious vehicle parked in Kinsella.  A licence plate was provided and the vehicle was not reported stolen.  The vehicle was noted located.

On November 20^th, police assisted the Dawson Creek RCMP with serving subpoena’s on residents that reside in the Viking area.  The subpoenas were served and returned to Dawson Creek.

On November 21^st, police received a request to conduct a wellbeing check on a 28-year-old male.   The complainant advised she hadn’t heard from her son and was concerned for his wellbeing.  The complainant contacted the police again and advised that her son had called her and advised he had just woke up and he was fine.

On November 21^st, police received a complaint of a motor vehicle collision on Highway 36 and Highway 26.   The complainant advised while stopped at the intersection a vehicle slid into the rear of her vehicle.  A collision report was completed, it was determined that due to the icy road conditions the vehicle was unable to stop and slid into the complainant’s vehicle.

That afternoon, a complaint of suspicious truck pulling a holiday trailer with the slide partially shut and the awning flipped up was received.  With the assistance of the Vermilion Traffic unit the vehicle was located and the driver was spoken to.  He advised he was just retrieving the trailer after it was recovered.  

That same afternoon, Viking Fire and Rescue requested the assistance of the police with a structure fire southwest of Viking.  Police were notified later that it was a controlled burn and police assistance was not required.

On November 22^nd, police conducted a search warrant at a rural location in Kinsella.  Information was received that the property owner was in possession of weapons which is a breach of his current court conditions.  Members completed the search, weapons and ammunition were seized from the location.  Charges of failing to comply with a court order are pending.

On November 22^nd, police received a complaint of a 2-vehicle motor vehicle collision in Viking.  The complainant advised she was travelling westbound and a vehicle travelling eastbound was approaching in her lane of traffic.  The vehicles front drivers’ sides collided.  There were no injuries, speed and road conditions were a factor in the collision.  The complainant did not want to proceed with charges at this time.

That same morning, police received a complaint of two suspicious people on highway 36.  The complainant advised of two subjects on highway 36 trying to wave down vehicles.  Police did not locate the subjects.

That afternoon, a cell phone was turned into the RCMP detachment.  Police have not been able to determine who the phone belongs to.

On November 23^rd, police received a complaint of a suspicious male near Bruce.  The complainant advised he located a male walking down a rural road.   The complainant spoke to the male who stated his snowmobile broke down.  The complainant gave the subject a ride and during that time the subjects story was changing, he was taken to a business in Bruce.  The owner of the business then gave the subject a ride to a business in Holden.  The complainant advised police that he attended the location where he picked the male up and located a truck with a tidy tank in the bush.  Police attended the location and determined the truck was stolen out of Vermilion earlier that morning.  Police have been provided with surveillance from the businesses, this matter is still under investigation.

That evening, police responded to a motor vehicle collision on highway 36.  The complainant advised he was travelling northbound in his semi truck when a semi truck hauling scrap metal entered his lane and sideswiped his truck and trailer.  The truck continued driving southbound.  A pickup truck travelling behind the truck witnessed the collision and collided with debris off the trucks.  Police located the truck and completed a statement from the driver.  The other semi was not located.  There were no injuries in this collision, police are continuing to investigate this matter.

As winter settles in, it’s important to stay alert, stay prepared, and stay safe. The weather can change quickly, and so can driving conditions! Remember these important tips when hitting the roads this winter to keep everyone safe.

❄️Clear Your Vehicle – Before hitting the road, take time to clear all snow and ice from your windshield, back window, mirrors, lights, and roof. It only takes a few extra minutes, and it makes a big difference in visibility and safety.

❄️Slow Down & Keep a Safe Distance – Winter roads can be slippery, even if they look clear. Reduce your speed and leave plenty of space between you and the vehicle ahead.

❄️Prepare for the Unexpected – Always have an emergency kit in your vehicle with essentials like blankets, water, snacks, a flashlight, and booster cables. You never know when you might need them, especially during Alberta’s unpredictable weather.

Inside Scoop - NOVEMBER 11^TH – 17^TH

On November 11^th, police were dispatched to an alarm at a location in Kinsella. The building was cleared and police spoke with a keyholder who advised they had been experiencing trouble with the alarm system.

Later that afternoon, police received a call for assistance from EMS as a female they were trying to assess roadside had driven away eastbound on Highway 14. A short time later, the person in question collided head on with a westbound SUV which then entered the ditch and rolled several times. A third vehicle was also hit and pushed into the ditch. Fortunately, only minor injuries were incurred by the involved parties. A 30-year-old female from Edmonton was arrested on scene and taken to a medical facility for assessment. Charges of Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle Causing Bodily Harm and Resisting Arrest are pending.

That evening, police were advised of a suspicious person who had drove onto a rural property east of Viking. The property owner spoke with the male who said he needed a tire for the trailer he was pulling. He was told there were no tires available for the trailer and he eventually departed, leaving the trailer behind without the permission of the property owner.  The male did not return for the trailer in the coming days so the complainant had it towed.

Early on November 13^th, police received a complaint of a suspicious male carrying a jerry can walking on a rural road in the Kinsella area. Police made patrols in the area but did not locate the person in question.

That afternoon, police received information regarding a male who was under the influence of drugs and was threatening to drive.  Police attended the scene and spoke with the male who was visibly impaired by drugs but he was not in a vehicle when located. He stated he had no plans to drive or harm himself or anyone else so police had no grounds to arrest him or pursue the matter. The complainant was updated.

On November 14^th, police were advised of a two-vehicle collision that had occurred on Highway 26 the week prior.  This matter is still under investigation.

That afternoon, police received a complaint of mischief at a vacant property north of Viking.  The complainant advised he had found a hole in the roof of the residence and he believed it to be from a gunshot.  He did not know when this would have occurred and couldn’t provide any other details on the matter and just wanted police aware.

Late that night, police received a complaint of threats being uttered. The complainant requested police meet him at the hospital in Viking.  Police attended and spoke with the complainant but he did not provide any evidence regarding his original complaint and police had no grounds to pursue the matter.

On November 15^th, police received a complaint of aggressive dogs at a rural location southeast of Viking. The complainant advised his tenants’ dogs were causing a problem for another tenant at his property. Police referred him to the Landlord/Tenant Act as well as Alberta Animal Services a it wasn’t a criminal matter.

Also on this day, police provided assistance to Wainwright RCMP as they dealt with an attempted murder investigation.

Early on November 16^th, police received a complaint of a suspicious truck parked at a rural location south of Viking. Patrols were made but the vehicle in question was not located.

WORD ON THE STREET

NOVEMBER 4^th – 10^th 

On November 6^th, members responded to a complaint of gunshots near Lake Thomas.  When members arrived, they located a vehicle in the field.  The vehicle proceeded to accelerate towards police vehicles before coming to an abrupt stop.   Due to the nature of the complaint a high risk take down was completed.  A 46-year-old male was taken into police custody.   Investigation determined the male was discharging his firearm in the dark.  The male stated he was testing out his rifle.  A firearm was located on the front passenger seat along with several empty casing and alcohol.  The male is facing charges of possession of a weapon for dangerous purpose, careless use of a firearm, unsafe store of a firearm and transporting liquor in a vehicle when liquor is within easy access of an occupant.  He will be appearing in Vegreville Provincial Court at a later date.

 On November 7^th, police received a complaint of a truck with an unsafe load.   The complainant advised of a truck travelling on highway 14 and the load appears to have shifted looking like it may fall off.  Members were unable to locate the vehicle.

That afternoon, police received information of an occupant driving without a driver’s licence.  The subject was not located.

On November 9^th, police received a complaint of a domestic dispute near Kinsella. Police attended and spoke with the victim and learned the male in question was inside the residence, police entered the residence and arrested the male.  He was released from police custody with conditions and will be appearing in Vegreville Provincial Court at a later date.  He will be facing charges of assault causing bodily harm and uttering threats against a person.

That evening, police received a request to check on the wellbeing of a resident in Viking as she had concerns for his mental health. Police attended and spoke with the person in question but did not have the grounds to apprehend him at this time. The complainant was updated.  

The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre would like to warn Canadians about a new variation of the bank investigator scam. Fraudsters are impersonating financial institutions and are claiming that the victim’s bank account has been compromised. Fraudsters will convince victims that in order to protect their account until a new debit card is issued, the victim must send an Interac e-transfer transaction to their own cellphone number. The suspect will instruct the victim on the steps required to add themselves as a payee and to increase their daily Interac e-transfer limit to $10,000 (note that the maximum amount that a sender may send through the Interac

e-transfer network may vary depending on the sender’s financial institution. Interac will automatically refuse to complete any payment by a sender above the limit established by the financial institution).

The suspect provides the e-transfer question and answer that the victim must use for the transfer. Once the victim sends the Interac e-transfer transaction to their own cellphone number, suspects will ask the victim for a “code” which is the last portion of the Interac e-transfer URL/link received. If the victim provides the URL, suspects will have the ability to deposit the funds into their own account. In some cases, suspects are able to provide some of the victim’s personal information which might include name, date of birth, phone number, address and debit card number to make the call seem legitimate. Additionally, suspects are spoofing financial institution phone numbers or are providing fraudulent call-back phone numbers which impersonate the financial institution.

Other variations of the bank investigator scam:

1.) Victims receive an automated phone call claiming to be their financial institution, law

enforcement or, in some cases, Amazon advising that there have been fraudulent transactions in their account. Fraudsters will request access to the victims’ computer to continue the

“investigation”. Victims are then shown a fraudulent transaction on their online bank account.

The suspects state that they want the victims' help in an ongoing “investigation” against the

criminals who stole their money and request that the victims send funds as part of the

“investigation”.

In some cases, fraudsters will add the victim as a “payee” with a fraudulent email address and

advise that the victim must transfer a large amount of money in order to protect their account.

The fraudsters will convince the victim that they have added funds to the victim’s account but,

in reality, the funds were transferred from their line of credit or savings account.

2.) Suspects may have the victims debit card number and password, but cannot access the victim’s account due to multi-factor authentication protection on their account. Suspects then proceed to contact the victim claiming to be their financial institution and will advise the victim that they must provide a code they receive via text message or email in order to confirm their identity. The code the victim provides is the multi-factor authentication code which gives the suspects full access to their bank account.

Warning Signs – How to Protect Yourself

• Criminals use Call-Spoofing to mislead victims. Do not assume that phone numbers appearing on your call display are accurate.

• If you get an incoming call claiming to be from your financial institution, advise the caller that you will call them back. End the call and dial the number on the back of your bank debit card from a different phone if possible or wait 10 minutes before making the outgoing call.

• Never provide details of links or URL’s received via text message or email to fraudsters.

• Don’t share codes received via text message or email with anyone. In most cases, these are multifactor authentication codes that will give fraudsters access to your account.

• Fraudsters will often provide the first 4 to 6 numbers of your debit or credit card. Remember that these numbers are used to identify the card issuer and are known as the Bank Identifier Number (BIN). Most debit and credit card numbers issued by specific financial institutions begin with the same 4 to 6 numbers.

• If your personal information has been compromised in the past through a breach or a phishing message, remember that the information can be used as a tool to make the communication appear legitimate.

• Never provide remote access to your computer.

• Financial institutions or online merchants will never request transferring funds to an external

account for security reasons.

• Financial institutions or police will never request you to turn over your bank card nor attend your residence to pick up your bank card.

• Enabling Auto-Deposits for Interac e-transfers provides additional layer of security

Weekly News Update Viking RCMP

OCTOBER 28^TH – NOVEMBER 3^RD  2024

On October 28^th, police were advised by Two Hills RCMP that they had located an abandoned vehicle in their area. They had contacted the registered owner of the vehicle, who had a Viking address, and he advised he was not aware the vehicle had been stolen from his property. Police have no suspects at this time.

That afternoon, police received a request to locate an individual who was believed to be residing in Viking.  Police attended the last known residence of the person in question but learned he hadn’t lived there since July. The complainant was updated.

On October 29^th, police were advised of a hit and run collision that had occurred at a local gas station.  The complainant called back later to advise police could disregard as the matter had been settled with the driver’s insurance company.

Later that morning, police received a complaint of a suspicious vehicle parked on a residential street in Viking.  Police spoke with the owner and learned he was in town for work purposes. The complainant was updated.

Also that day, police were advised of a suspicious vehicle that had drove onto a business lot in Bruce during the early morning hours. The complainant had security footage of the vehicle entering the property and a female exiting it and walking around the yard. The female then departed in the vehicle. Nothing was damaged or stolen. 

That afternoon, police received a complaint of an attempted phone scam. The complainant advised she had received a phone call from an unknown person who claimed she had won 2 million dollars thru STARS but she would have to purchase a $500 gift card from a local gas station in order to claim her prize. Fortunately, the complainant did not comply so did not become a victim of this scam.  Police would like to remind the public that you will NEVER have to pay or purchase anything in order to claim a prize won in any type of legitimate lottery.

On October 30^th, police received a complaint of a theft of 2 vehicles from a property near Bruce.  This matter is still under investigation.

That night, police received a call for assistance from a stranded motorist on Highway 26. The caller advised her vehicle had broke down and she did not feel safe waiting for a tow truck as her van was partially on the roadway. Police attended and provided traffic control until the tow truck arrived and removed the vehicle.

On October 31^st, police received a complaint of a fraud that had occurred the week prior. The complainant advised she had received a phone call from an unknown person claiming to be with Bell Mobility. The caller offered the complainant a discounted phone package and then obtained credit card details and other personal information. A short time later, the complainant was contacted by her credit card company as there was a suspicious purchase on her account. The charge was reimbursed and the credit card was cancelled.  Police are continuing to follow up on this complaint. 

On November 1^st, police received a complaint of a suspicious vehicle parked at a rural location near Viking. The complainant advised when he drove past the vehicle, the male driver pulled a hood over his head as if to hide his identity and then the vehicle departed the area. Police made a patrol and located the vehicle in question on Highway 36 just north of Viking. A traffic stop was conducted and after speaking with the driver, it was determined nothing criminal had occurred and he was allowed to continue on his way.

That afternoon, police received a complaint of trespassing on private property east of Viking.  The complainant advised he had trail cam footage of a vehicle on his property and there was also signs that someone had been burning copper wire at the location.  This matter is still under investigation.

On November 2^nd, police received a report of an erratic driver eastbound on Highway 14. Patrols were made however the vehicle in question was not located.

On November 3^rd, police received a report of a theft of property from a residence in Kinsella. The complainant called back later and advised the property had been returned and police could disregard her complaint.