On Tuesday, May 8, 2018 the youth turned himself in to police at an Alberta RCMP detachment.

The 17-year-old male has been charged with 2^nd degree murder, robbery using a prohibited firearm (x2), possession of an offensive weapon dangerous to the public, firearm in a motor vehicle and disguised with the intent to commit an indictable offence in relation to Barnes’ death. He is also charged with aggravated assault in relation to a second male who sustained non-life threatening injuries during the homicide.

EPS Homicide detectives continue to investigate.

There is no additional information available at this time.

Anyone with information about this crime is asked to contact the EPS at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online atwww.p3tips.com/250.

Background

At approximately 12:30 a.m. on Sunday, June 18, 2017, police were called to a parking lot in Kensington Crossing, in the area of 125 Street and 132 Avenue, after a passerby located two males with obvious signs of trauma. Joshua Gilbert Barnes, 18, waspronounced deceased on scene by EMS and the other male was treated and transported to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

An autopsy conducted by the Edmonton Medical Examiner determined that Barnes died as a result of a stab wound. Homicide detectives deemed the manner of death to be homicide.

Every file is evaluated on a case by case basis. The EPS decided to release the name of the deceased as it serves an investigative purpose.

At approximately 9:30 p.m., on Wednesday, May 9, 2018, Northwest Division patrol officers conducted a traffic stop on a suspicious vehicle in the area of 141 Street and 121 Avenue.

Luke Belcourt, 22, was taken into police custody when he managed to flee the area on foot. At the time of Belcourt’s arrest, he was wearing a green jacket with black pants and was also wearing handcuffs.

Belcourt stands 5’10” tall and weighs approximately 170lbs. He has light brown, wavy hair.

Police believe Belcourt to be in the Edmonton area.

Assist to locate: Luke Belcourt, 22

Anyone with any information about the whereabouts of Luke Belcourt is asked to contact the EPS at 780-423-4567or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.p3tips.com/250.

Luke Belcourt, 22, was located outside a residence in the area of 140 Avenue and 117 Street where he was arrested without incident.

Formal charges are pending against the accused. No further information is available at this time as police continue to investigate.

Background

The Edmonton Police Service is seeking the public’s assistance in locating a male suspect who is wanted for escaping lawful custody, breach of recognizance(x3) and obstruction.

At approximately 9:30 p.m., on Wednesday, May 9, 2018, Northwest Division patrol officers conducted a traffic stop on a suspicious vehicle in the area of 141 Street and 121 Avenue.

Luke Belcourt, 22, was taken into police custody when he managed to flee the area on foot. At the time of Belcourt’s arrest, he was wearing a green jacket with black pants and was also wearing handcuffs.

Since January 1, 2018, 83 occurrences of catalytic converter thefts have been reported citywide. In recent weeks, police are noticing a significant increase in catalytic converter thefts from Honda CRVs, with eight of these thefts occurring citywide since mid-April. Northeast Edmonton in particular has been the hardest hit, with seven of the eight instances of catalytic converter thefts occurring between April 19 and 30, 2018. Models built between 2003 and 2009 appear to be the primary targets.  

Commercial parking lots and residential areas are the most commonly targeted locations, and thieves appear to be active during daytime hours.

While preventing the theft of catalytic converters can be challenging, investigators are advising drivers to park in well lit, highly visible locations with security cameras whenever possible, and report any suspicious activity in parking areas to police.

“The perpetrators appear to be crawling under the vehicles to cut the catalytic converters out,” says Sgt. Shelley Pinch, with Northeast Division. “Police are asking anyone who notices suspicious activity in parking areas, including individuals carrying power tools or loud noises consistent with the use of such tools, to contact police.”

Anyone who has information about this crime is asked to contact the EPS at 780-423-4567or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.p3tips.com/250.

“The EPS Curb the Danger program continues to play a vital role in assisting police in taking impaired drivers off city streets,” said Barney Stevens, EPS Curb the Danger Program Coordinator.

“Citizens have made more than 5,300 calls to police about possible impaired drivers in the first quarters of 2017 and 2018. It’s quite remarkable really. The vigilance from our community on impaired driving has been terrific.”

The Edmonton Police Service’s Curb the Danger program encourages concerned citizens to take the time to report erratic drivers to police via 911 or 377 on their mobile, who then quickly mobilize resources in an attempt to locate and remove intoxicated drivers from Edmonton streets.

The first quarter Curb the Danger numbers for 2017 and 2018 are as follows:

CURB THE DANGER STATISTICS, FIRST QUARTER 2018

If you suspect a driver is impaired:

• Call 911 if it is safe to do so. Calling 911 in an emergency, or to report an impaired driver, is permitted while driving under the distracted driving law.
• Report the location, vehicle description, and license plate number.
• If possible, keep the vehicle in sight but do not attempt to chase the vehicle, or break the law to do so.

On March 23, 2018, West Division officers responded to a report of an assault involving employees at a west Edmonton organization in the area of 172 Street and 99 Avenue. While investigating the alleged assault, officers discovered that the 49-year-old female complainant, Jodi Zemrau, had outstanding charges related to the fraud of another local business in 2012.

Further investigation revealed that Zemrau reportedly applied for a position with the west Edmonton organization in October 2017 and when asked to provide a police information check, allegedly provided a false document.  Upon further review of their financial information, the organization reported to police that from late December 2017 to late February 2018 Zemrau reportedly stole more than $5,000 from them by allegedly writing and cashing unauthorized cheques.

On April 19, 2018 police arrested and charged Zemrau with uttering a forged document, theft over $5000 and the outstanding charges related to the 2012 fraud, which include fraud over $5,000 (x3), uttering a forged document and theft under $5,000.

Police believe that Zemrau may have defrauded other organizations and are releasing her photo to encourage any additional complainants to come forward. Zemrau also operated under another alias and may be recognized as Kristina Milke.

Zemrau is described as 5’10” tall and weighs approximately 250 lbs.

Jodi Zemrau, 49

Height: 5’10”

Weight: 250 lbs

Police continue to investigate and encourage other complainants to contact them at 780-423-4567or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.p3tips.com/250.

Edmonton Police Service officers, along with its municipal and provincial partners, inspected 248 commercial vehicles from May 8-10, 2018, 103 of which were deemed to be “out of service” for various safety issues.

Of the remaining 145 vehicles checked, only 81 were found to have no defects, with another 64 vehicles requiring additional attention. In total, 86 tickets were issued over the three-day operation.

One driver was also arrested on three outstanding provincial warrants and a criminal charge was laid against his passenger for possession of an illegal substance.

“Our inspectors come across a variety of violations, with the most common issues including brake adjustments, permits, load security and load weight,” says Sgt. Kerry Bates with the EPS Traffic Section. “Overall, ensuring the drivers of commercial vehicles and the loads they carry are safe to be on Edmonton roads is our goal.”

Out of all the vehicles checked during the three-day operation, one of the most glaring defects was found on a gravel truck hauling an empty, 16-wheel gravel trailer. Of the 16 tires on the trailer, 10 required replacement. While the truck hauling the trailer passed inspection, the trailer was put out of service and has since been taken off the road.

At approximately 3:15 p.m. today, Saturday, May 12, 2018, police were called to Yellowhead Trail and Anthony Henday Drive on the report of a serious collision.

Upon arrival, investigators located a 25-year-male with significant injuries. Police believe the driver was travelling northbound on 184 Street, attempting to enter the eastbound Yellowhead on-ramp when he lost control of his motorcycle. The driver was then allegedly ejected off the motorcycle, landing on the eastbound lanes of Yellowhead Trail.

The driver was treated and transported to hospital with what is being described as serious, although non-life-threating injuries. The 25-year-old man remains in hospital at this time.

Police believe speed to have been a factor in this collision. Impairment was not a factor. The investigation continues.

On Thursday, May 3, 2018, a 40-year-old male was travelling eastbound on Saskatchewan Drive from 116 Street when he allegedly lost control of his motorcycle. As a result, the driver and his bike skid several meters, striking a south side curb. The male was treated and transported to hospital by EMS with serious injuries.

On Friday, May 11, 2018, the 40-year-old male succumbed to his injuries in hospital. Neither speed or alcohol were factors in this collision.

This is Edmonton’s second traffic fatality of 2018.

”We want to show youth that police officers are approachable and that encounters with the police are not always a negative interaction,” says Constable Rikan Farhat. “In fact, we hope to help and support youth in achieving their potential through positive police interaction."

The purpose of the event is to promote youth safety in public spaces and to provide a positive engagement opportunity for youth and EPS members. Rhea Bowman, Neighbourhood Empowerment Team (NET) member and Youth Liaison with The Family Centre, says that events such as the barbecue and basketball game help connect youth with their community.

“Youth are a vital part of our community and they have contributions to make,” says Bowman. When youth feel a connection, and view police and others in the community as allies, they are more likely to ask for help and less likely to be victimized.”

Police recommend the following personal safety tips for youth when out in the community:

• Always be aware of your surroundings – REMAIN ALERT
• Wear one ear bud instead of two, so you can hear what is happening around you
• Conceal your valuables (electronics, cash)
• Walk in well-lit and busy areas

Partners in the event are: Clareview Community Recreation Center, John D. Bracco Junior High School, EPS, M&M Meats, The Family Centre and REACH Edmonton.

Crime Prevention Week is held annually in Edmonton, with a focus on ‘community as partners in crime prevention.’ This year several activities are taking place over the week to highlight some common crimes and prevention tips.

2018 Crime Prevention Week is organized by: Neighbourhood Empowerment Team (NET), City of Edmonton, Edmonton Police Service, The Family Centre, United way of the Alberta Capital Region, Crime Stoppers and REACH Edmonton.

For more information about Crime Prevention Week, please visit the Crime Prevention Week website.

Investigators believe the male suspect is responsible for a series of robberies that were reported to police between Feb. 24 and April 9, 2018.

The majority of robberies were committed at fast food/take out restaurants and gas bars across southwest Edmonton, between 7:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. In each case, the male suspect enters the business and either orders food or states he is there to pick up a food order, before brandishing a weapon and demanding cash and cigarettes.

Some of the businesses targeted are located near Ellerslie Road and 111 Street, Saddleback Road, Gateway Boulevard and 53 Avenue.

The suspect is described as being a heavy set Caucasian or Hispanic male, 30-45 years old, 5’9” to 6’0” tall and unshaven. He is usually seen wearing a dark-coloured ball cap, a dark blue hoody, sweat pants and dark shoes.

Anyone with information about this robbery series is encouraged to contact the EPS at 780-423-4567or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.tipsubmit.com/start.htm.

The driver allegedly drove erratically and dangerously from the south-side into the downtown area, including Jasper Avenue, hitting barricades, a parked car and a road sign. A patrol officer who happened to be in the area of 105 Street and Jasper Avenue noticed the vehicle and started following it, while calling for back up.

When the truck started travelling west down 103A Avenue, patrol members along with Tactical and Canine Units intercepted the truck and driver at 97 Street, just west of Police Headquarters, at approximately 8:10 p.m.

A 35-year-old man, who appeared to be high on drugs, was arrested without incident.

Jay Robert Paul Pombert is charged with break and enter, theft of motor vehicle, attempted theft of motor vehicle (x2), dangerous driving, criminal hit and run, criminal flight, fail to stop at scene of accident, driving while disqualified, mischief  and several breaches of conditions.

No one was injured during the incident.

“I’m very proud of our EPS members and the work they do every day. These awards are just another testament to their dedication, innovation and compassion,” says EPS Chief Rod Knecht. “We feel honoured to be recognized by the AACP.”

The Heavy Users of Service (HUoS) project received the AACP Award for Outstanding Service.

HUoS began in 2013 with a belief and commitment to improve the lives of the most vulnerable, complex, street-involved people in Edmonton. No other current model offers such comprehensive information-sharing and intensive wraparound service to their clients. The impacts of HUoS can be seen on the project clients as their needs are identified, on service providers, on mental health and addictions, and on justice as victimization and offending are reduced.

HUoS project team award recipients include Sgt. Lee Bieraugle, Const. Martin Johnston, Const. Carrie Dreger, analyst Lindsay Broderick, social worker Amy Goutbeck, social worker Barbara Allen, and admin assistant Martina Belecan.

The Community Action Team (CAT) received the AACP Award for Crime Prevention & Community Policing Initiatives. This initiative addresses violence, crime and disorder in at-risk neighbourhoods. Using neighbourhood crime reporting and analysis, CAT saturates high-crime areas with mobile, highly-visible police units to target specific crimes. In addition to police efforts, community partners and volunteers help educate residents on crime prevention, and various social agencies connect vulnerable persons with needed services.

CAT team award recipients include Sgt. James Junio, Const. Darryl McDonald, Const. Justin Johnston, Const. Michael Dahl, Const. Michael Zacharuk, and Const. Brandi Fjeld.

The Integrated Offender Management Initiative(IOMI) received the AACP Award for Crime Prevention and Community Policing Initiatives. The IntegratedOffenderManagementTeamisajointinitiativebetweentheEdmontonPoliceService (EPS),RoyalCanadianMountedPolice(RCMP)andtheGovernmentofAlberta(GOA).The projecthas builtmeaningfulandcollaborativebasedrelationshipswithcommunitystakeholders.Thishas allowedIOMIteammembersandcommunitystakeholderstoprovideimpactfulsupportand consequencestooffenderswiththeaimofdecreasingrecidivismandincreasingcommunitysafety. OneoftheclearsuccessesthusfarinI0MIisthereductionofcallsforserviceinvolving offendersin theIOMI   program. Mid-point  IOMIresultsshowadirectcorrelationbetween  reductions  incallsfor police service  whenthere  is  anincrease  inoffenders  accessing  resources  from  other  community agencies.

Initiative recipients include analyst Megan Wells, Const. Renee Martynuik, Sgt. Angela Kemp and Const. Diana Stratton of the RCMP.

The awards will be presented at the AACP Spring AGM and Conference in Banff on May 16, 2018.  AACP awards formally recognize employees, citizens and community groups who exemplify innovation and exceed expectations of other experienced persons performing the same tasks.

On Saturday, May 12, 2018, at approximately 9:30 p.m., a 23-year-old female was allegedly attempting to cross 48 Street and 12 Avenue when she was struck by a vehicle travelling northbound on 48 Street. The woman was treated and transported to hospital with serious, although non-life-threatening injuries. The driver then fled the area.

The vehicle believed to have been involved in the hit-and-run is being described as a black Acura MDX SUV, with a roof rack, chrome door handles and running boards.

Acura MDX allegedly involved in serious hit-and-run

Anyone with information about the driver or vehicle involved in this hit-and-run is asked to contact the EPS at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.p3tips.com/250.

Members of the EPS Southwest Division Special Projects Team began investigating the owner of the health-food business located near 34 Avenue and 99 Street, back in the winter of 2017, after it was reported to police that steroids were allegedly being trafficked out of that business.

Investigators were granted and subsequently executed a search warrant at that location, which led to the discovery and seizure of various drugs carrying an estimated street value of close to $105,000 (see photos of steroid seizure below).

Testosterone, 7.8 L and 1,000 pills - EST Street Value of $52,997
Boldenone, 50 vials - EST Street Value of $880

Trembolone, 152 vials - EST Street Value of $11,390

Stanozolol, 18 vials and 5,472 pills - EST Street Value of $13,450
Nandrolone, 41 vials - EST Street Value of $3,690
Hash, 90 pills - EST Street Value of $900
Hemp Oil, 210 pills and 20 vials - EST Street Value of $845

Drostanolone, 24 vials - EST Street Value of $2,160                     

Oxymetholone, 2,900 pills - EST Street Value of $5,220

Oxandrolone, 3,300 pills - EST Street Value of $9,900

Metandienone, 1,763 pills - EST Street Value of $3,526

Investigators have charged Sarbjit Kahlon, 44, with possession for the purpose of trafficking a controlled substance (x9), trafficking a controlled substance (x2), possession of a controlled substance (x2)

Steroids seized from a south-side health food store, following a recent investigation.

Police received a report from a resident about hearing shots fired in the area. Paramedics treated and transported the injured male to hospital, where he was pronounced deceased shortly thereafter.

The Edmonton Medical Examiner has confirmed that Ibrahim Zoker, 23, died from gunshot wounds and that the death is a homicide. No further information is currently available.

Anyone with information about the homicide is asked to contact the EPS at 780-423-4567or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.p3tips.com/250.

Every file is evaluated on a case by case basis. The EPS has decided to release the name of the deceased in this investigation for the following reason: it serves an investigative purpose. 

ETS LRT security notified police that a pedestrian had been struck by a train travelling from Clareview Station, and that the pedestrian was confirmed deceased on scene. The collision took place approximately 200 meters north of the 137 Avenue overpass.

EPS Forensic Ident Services and the Medical Examiner’s office are in the process of identifying the deceased male.

MCIU will be reviewing video from the LRT once obtained, to assist in the investigation.

ETS LRT security notified police that a pedestrian had been struck by a train travelling from Clareview Station, and that the pedestrian was confirmed deceased on scene.

Investigators have determined that the death of the 21-year-old man is non-criminal and as such, will not be included in the traffic fatalities statistics.

This is not a random incident, and the accused and complainant are known to each other. 

Wesley Whitebear, 30, has warrants for his arrest for Choking with Intent to Overcome Resistance and Assault Causing Bodily Harm.

He is considered armed and dangerous and anyone who sees Whitebear should not approach him and should call police immediately. It’s believed Whitebear was headed for the Wabamun area.

Wesley Whitebear

Height: 5’11”

Weight: 190 lbs.

Anyone with any information about the whereabouts of Wesley Whitebear is asked to contact the EPS at 780-423-4567or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.p3tips.com/250.

The EPS Behavioral Assessment Unit issued four warrants for the high risk offender who failed to report to police.

Whitford, who is transgendered and goes by the name Leanne Whitford, is currently on the run and has four outstanding warrants for her arrest. Whitford is considered to be dangerous and should not be approached.

Whitford is a convicted violent offender and the Edmonton Police Service has reasonable grounds to believe she will commit another violent offence while in the community. She is known to frequent the downtown area.

Anyone with information about Whitford’s whereabouts is encouraged to call the Edmonton Police Service Complaint Line at 780-423-4567 or the Edmonton Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or submit your tip online at www.tipsubmit.com/start.htm.

The Edmonton Police Service is issuing this information and warning after careful deliberation of all related issues, including privacy concerns, in the belief that it is clearly in the public interest to inform the members of the community. 

Warrants issued for High Risk Offender:
Ian Francis WHITFORD, 36
Also goes by the name Leanne Whitford