City police say they’ve taken a 30% bite out of vehicle thefts by busting an organized gang of car rustlers.
From an investigation that began in February, police have laid 168 charges against 10 suspects while recovering 74 stolen vehicles worth $1.9 million, said Staff Sgt. Kristie Verheul.
But while the arrests have reduced the number of vehicle thefts by nearly 40 a week, Verheul said the problem persists.
“It’s a significant drop ... but this is really scratching the surface — 80 vehicles stolen a week is still significant,” she said.
Police believe the group had begun stealing vehicles, bartering for drugs and re-selling the cars, trucks, SUVs, skid steer loaders, ATVs and snowmobiles since December, when the force noticed a dramatic spike in such thefts.
They were stolen from dealerships, driveways, rental agencies and industrial areas, said Verheul.
“Our top targets were actually coordinating the efforts of a number offenders,” she said.
“They were used to commit other crimes or sold for profit.”
The suspects, she said, zeroed in on some pricey wheels, notably a 1970 Mustang worth $40,000 and new trucks priced at $80,000.
Most of the seized vehicles have been returned to their owners undamaged, due partly to the way they were stolen, she said.
“One-third of the stolen vehicles were taken by using their own keys,” said Verheul.
Police also seized drugs, $3,500 in cash, $12,700 worth of other stolen good, a rifle and handgun.
Among those charged were Tyler Roger Scott, 30, who’s charged with 19 counts of breaching a court order, possession of the proceeds of crime and possession for the purpose of trafficking.
Bandi Lynn Courterielle, 25 is charged with various theft offences as is Jason Howard Little, 31, who’s also accused of property damage over $5,000.
Police are still seeking Tyler Timothy John, 34, who’s wanted on theft charges.
All the suspects are Calgarians.
CPS arrest 10, recover 74 vehicles worth $1.9 million
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