Eight different break and enter investigations scattered across west central Saskatchewan and eastern Alberta led to an arrest yesterday.

Between December 2019 and February 2020, there was a series of eight break and enters that targeted small businesses and ATMs. According the an RCMP report all of the incidents had similar methods for operation. Suspects would use a vehicle to gain entry to the building causing extensive damage to property. Once inside the building’s ATMs, cash registers and other small goods would be taken or damaged.

The investigation into the thefts was lead by the Frenchman Butte Enhanced Policing Unit with assistance from RCMP detachments in Saskatchewan and Alberta. The investigation was also aided by a number of specialty units including the Forensic Identification Section, and Divisional Criminal Analytical Section.The efforts of everyone involved lead to the identification of a suspect.

In July of 2020 police executed a search warrant at a residence in the RM of Britannia. A stolen firearm and a number of cannabis plants in varies stages of growth were located. Further evidence linked the individual to the ongoing investigation.

As a result of the ongoing investigation, Daniel Dean of the RM of Britannia, Saskatchewan, has been charged with the following:

  • Four counts of break and enter, contrary to Sec. 348(1)(b) of the Criminal Code (CC)
  • Possession of a stolen firearm, contrary to Sec. 96(1) of the CC
  • Careless storage of a firearm, contrary to Sec. 86(1) of the CC
  • Possession of a firearm without a license, contrary to Sec. 91(1) of the CC
  • Possession of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking, contrary to Sec. 10(2) of the Cannabis Act
  • Possessing more than four plants Sec. 8(1) of the Cannabis Act

Daniel Dean is scheduled to appear in Lloydminster, Saskatchewan provincial court on March 9, 2021 and in Lloydminster, Alberta provincial court on March 16, 2021.

This investigation is ongoing and other suspects have not been identified. Anyone with information regarding this or any other incident is urged to call the St. Walburg RCMP at 306-248-6250.