In a significant crackdown on a series of break and enters targeting golf courses and other businesses, RCMP detachments across Southern Alberta have charged three individuals for their alleged involvement in numerous incidents. The arrests follow a string of burglaries that have plagued several counties around Calgary, including a notable break-in just outside of Langdon, causing widespread concern among business owners and residents alike.
The investigation, carried out through January and February, saw the collaboration of various RCMP units, pinpointing a man and a woman as the primary suspects behind the crimes. Their vehicle, a Volkswagen Jetta, was identified as part of the investigation, leading to a decisive operation on Friday, February 9, by the Cochrane Crime Reduction Unit (CRU), with assistance from the Southern Alberta District Crime Reduction Unit (SAD CRU) and the City of Calgary Tactical Unit (CPS TAC).
A search warrant executed at a North Calgary residence resulted in the arrest of a woman and the seizure of an array of stolen property, including laptops, motorcycles, and firearms. This operation provided RCMP with the necessary evidence to connect the three suspects to the various break-and-enters under investigation.
The targeted locations span across multiple counties, affecting numerous golf courses known for their serene landscapes and valued contributions to the local sporting community. Among the impacted sites were Winter Green Golf Course, Serenity Golf Club, and Livingstone Golf Course in Rocky View County, alongside other establishments across Mountain View, Foothills, Tsuut’ina, and Calgary areas.
Kyle Nechiporenko, a 37-year-old Calgary resident, faces a litany of charges, including attempted murder with a firearm, break and enter to steal a firearm, and possession of property obtained by crime over $5000, among others. Soleil Wenas, 20, also from Calgary, has been charged with similar offenses, including break and enter to steal a firearm and possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose.
Both Nechiporenko and Wenas are slated to appear in Didsbury court later this week, following their arrest. Additionally, a third woman arrested at the North Calgary residence faces charges of break and enter and possession of property obtained by crime over $5000. She has been released on an undertaking to appear in Cochrane court on March 12.
This series of arrests marks a critical step in addressing the wave of break-ins that have affected the Southern Alberta region. The collaborative effort of the RCMP units underscores a committed response to safeguarding local businesses and communities against such criminal activities. As the legal proceedings unfold, the impacted communities await justice for the disruptions and losses incurred, hoping for a return to security and normalcy in the wake of these disturbing events.
