Midale theft spree leads to arrests, Weyburn RCMP credit public help

WEYBURN – Two men were arrested in connection with a string of overnight thefts in Midale after an investigation was bolstered by community tips and additional police sources.

“No one knows a community better than the people who live there,” says Sgt. Warner Ignatiuk, the officer in charge of Weyburn RCMP. “When something seems off, residents are the first to notice. Reporting those concerns – whether it’s a suspicious person, vehicle, or behaviour – can help drive an investigation. In situations like this, timely reporting can help lead to an arrest. We want to say thank-you to the residents in Midale for working with us and doing their part to keep our communities safe.”

On July 26, Weyburn RCMP received several reports of thefts in Midale. Their investigation determined vehicles and/or garages were entered and rummaged through at six different locations in Midale. Items including electronics, tools, cigarettes, and change were reported as stolen to police.

Weyburn RCMP investigated with the assistance of Saskatchewan RCMP’s Remotely Piloted Aircraft System and Police Dog Services. Members of the public also provided invaluable assistance in this investigation. Community members submitted images and videos captured on their home security systems, checked their properties and contacted Weyburn RCMP about missing items, and reported suspicious activity to police. Due to the public’s assistance, officers were able to get a clear picture of the property crime in the area, helping advance their investigation.

As a result of continued investigation, Weyburn RCMP located and arrested two adult males later that same day.

Gerard Keenatch, 28, from Regina and Francis Desjarlais, 27, from Kawacatoose First Nation, are each charged with wear a disguise with intent to commit an offence, six counts, break, enter and commit, and six counts, trespass at night.

Gerard Keenatch is also charged with one count, fail to comply with release order condition.

Keenatch and Desjarlais are scheduled to appear in Weyburn Provincial Court on Aug. 12.

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