Ponoka RCMP seize drugs and explosives, one suspect remains at large

On Feb. 16, 2023, RCMP received information with regards to stolen property at a rural location near Ponoka. As a result of the investigation, between Feb. 18, 2023, and Feb.21, 2023,  multiple RCMP units executed search warrants at the property.

As a result of the searches RCMP seized:

• Approximately 31 grams of suspected Methamphetamine mixed with Fentanyl
• Approximately 166 grams of suspected cocaine
• 3 firearms
• Approximately 2000 rounds of ammunition
• Explosives (blasting caps)
• A 2018 John Deere Skid Steer stolen from a Feb. 5, 2022 Ponoka area gravel pit
• A stolen 1998 Dodge Ram
• High Wall dump trailer with obliterated Vehicle Identification Number
• A Heavy duty car hauler trailer
• Various stolen household items including video games, luggage, scuba diving equipment air pistols ect.

As a result of this investigation, RCMP have charged Timothy Shawn Leblanc (35) a resident of Ponoka County with:

• Possession of stolen property over $5000
• Possession of stolen property under $5000
• Alter VIN from a motor vehicle
• Unauthorized possession of a firearm
• Unauthorized possession of a prohibited Weapon
• Unauthorized possession of a prohibited device
• Unsafe storage of firearms.
• Failing to comply with release conditions (x2)
• Posses an explosive

RCMP have issued a warrant for Leblanc’s arrest.

Additionally, RCMP have arrested and charged Ponoka County resident Amanda Stewart (27) with the following:

• Possession of stolen property over $5000
• Possession of stolen property under $5000
• Alter VIN from a motor vehicle
• Unauthorized possession of a firearm
• Unauthorized possession of a prohibited Weapon
• Unauthorized possession of a prohibited device
• Unsafe storage of firearms.

She has been released from custody with her next court date set for March 31, 2023 at Ponoka Provincial Court.

RCMP continue the investigation and are asking for the public’s help in locating Timothy Shawn Leblanc. If you have any information on Leblanc’s whereabouts please call the Ponoka RCMP at 403-783-4471. If you wish to remain anonymous you can contact Crime Stoppers by phone at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), by Internet at www.tipsubmit.com or by SMS (check your local Crime Stoppers www.crimestoppers.ab.ca for instructions).