Athabasca RCMP Recover Millions in Stolen Property, Charge Local Man
RCMP in Athabasca have uncovered what they believe to be a chop shop containing millions of dollars worth of stolen vehicles and equipment.
The discovery followed a report from a victim whose vehicle had been stolen on December 29. The vehicle’s onboard GPS led police to a rural property in Athabasca County. Officers obtained and executed a search warrant at the property where they discovered a trove of stolen vehicles, including semi-trucks, trailers, off-road vehicles, heavy equipment, and parts.
The value of the recovered property is estimated to be in the millions, though police are still conducting a full inventory.
Kyle Cushing, a 36-year-old Fort McMurray resident, has been charged with possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 and altering, destroying, or removing a Vehicle Identification Number.
Cushing appeared before a Justice of the Peace and was released with conditions. He is scheduled to appear in court on January 27.
Athabasca is located roughly 300 kilometres south-southwest of Fort McMurray.
The investigation is ongoing as police work to identify the rightful owners of the recovered items.