Leduc RCMP Crime Reduction recover stolen welder and trailer listed on Facebook Marketplace – Update

Leduc, AB

 Leduc RCMP seek public assistance to identify and return property to owners.

RCMP are still seeking the owners of much of the recovered property. The public is encouraged to report any items that have been stolen including serial numbers and other identifying information to enable the return of the property to its rightful owners.

Should you be able to identify some of the property, please contact Leduc Crime Reduction Unit at 780-980-7200.

Background

March 14, 2024

Leduc RCMP Crime Reduction recover stolen welder and trailer listed on Facebook Marketplace

Leduc, Alta. – On March 4, 2024, Leduc RCMP received a report of a welder and welding trailer stolen from the Province of Saskatchewan listed for sale on Facebook Marketplace in Leduc.

Leduc RCMP Crime Reduction Unit (LCRU) took carriage of the investigation and with the assistance of the Central Alberta District Crime Reduction Unit, RCMP determined the welder and welding trailer were at a residence in the South Park area of Leduc.

On March 6, 2024, police attended the residence and arrested one male.

On March 7, 2024, LCRU with the assistance of Leduc’s General Investigation Section and Drug Unit, executed a search warrant at the residence in Leduc.

As a result of the search, RCMP seized 40 welders with an approximate value of $140,000. Michael Lee Payne (46), a resident of Leduc, was charged with possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 and possession of property obtained by crime for the purpose of trafficking over $5,000.

Following a judicial hearing, Payne was released from custody. He is scheduled to appear in Alberta Court of Justice in Leduc on April 11, 2024. 

LCRU investigation into this matter is ongoing.