Joint northeastern RCMP response leads to three arrests, two stolen vehicles recovered

BONNYVILLE, Alta. – A joint response and collaboration between a handful of northeastern RCMP detachments has led to the recovery of two stolen vehicles and three arrests that took place on Oct. 4. 

Shortly after 8 a.m., Bonnyville RCMP received a call from the registered owner of a truck stating their vehicle had been stolen.   

The truck’s owner was then able to provide slightly delayed GPS coordinates of the vehicle’s movement, according to RCMP. 

“While Bonnyville members were closing in on the truck’s location, a second report came in that there was also a stolen SUV travelling in tandem with the truck,” according to RCMP. 

Bonnyville RCMP members tracked both vehicles into the Town of Elk Point where the occupants of the truck allegedly abandoned the vehicle and joined the occupants travelling in the SUV. 

The group of suspects reportedly continued their attempt to flee police. 

RCMP deployed spike belts and the SUV was disabled on a rural roadway just west of Elk Point and all four occupants in the vehicle were taken into custody.   

“These four arrests were made possible due to the coordinated efforts and assistance provided by the Elk Point RCMP, Police Dog Services and Vermilion RCMP,” continued Bonnyville RCMP. 

Of the four occupants in the SUV, three people were taken into custody and are facing several charges. 

Jessi Benson, 32, from Cold Lake is charged with flight from police, possession of stolen property over $5,000, failing to comply with a release order, obstructing a peace officer, and operating a motor vehicle while prohibited. 

Luke White, 38, from St. Paul, faces charges of operating a motor vehicle while prohibited, failing to comply with a release order, theft of truck and possession of stolen property over $5,000. 

Blair Cardinal, 30, from St. Paul, is charged with fail to comply with a release order. 

All three of the accused have a first court appearance date of Oct. 18.