On Oct. 18, 2021, Sundre RCMP received a complaint from the Help Alberta Wildies Society, that 10 research trail cameras were stolen from the Williams Creek area. Since this time, the same area has been the target of theft 3 more times.

On Feb. 6, 2022, 30 research trail cameras were stolen. Then on March 6, 2022, it was reported that 43 trail cameras were stolen. At this time the estimated cost of replacement was approximately $17,000. On March 6, 2023, Sundre RCMP again received a complaint of 54 research trail cameras being stolen, with an estimated value of $12,500.  A total of 135 cameras in total were stolen.

On March 9, 2023, with assistance from Mayerthorpe RCMP, officers executed a search warrant at a residence in Mayerthorpe. During this search, officers recovered 52 of the stolen cameras.

Lonnie Darrel Roth, a resident of Mayerthorpe, has been charged with:

  • Possession of property obtained by crime
  • Mischief

Roth was released from custody on conditions and will be appearing in Mayerthorpe Provincial Court on May 11, 2023. Sundre RCMP continue to investigate this matter.