Three Men Face Over 200 Charges in Edmonton Theft Spree Using Stolen Rescue Equipment
Edmonton Police Service has announced the arrest and charging of three men in connection with a sophisticated theft operation that utilized stolen Jaws of Life equipment to target multiple businesses across the region. The suspects now collectively face more than 200 criminal charges following an extensive investigation that revealed damages and losses estimated between $750,000 and $1 million.
Stolen Rescue Tools Enable Widespread Criminal Activity
The criminal enterprise began in November 2025 when Edmonton police received reports of break-ins at fire halls in Water Valley and Calahoo. During these incidents, thieves made off with specialized rescue equipment including industrial cutters and the hydraulic extraction tools commonly known as Jaws of Life. Police estimate the value of the stolen equipment at approximately $110,000.
From December 1, 2025, to January 8, 2026, investigators documented approximately 18 break-and-enter incidents in Edmonton, with 14 of these involving the stolen Jaws of Life tools. The geographical distribution included 10 incidents in southwest Edmonton, five in southeast Edmonton, two in northeast Edmonton, and one in Sherwood Park.
Targeted Businesses Suffer Significant Losses
All affected locations were retail establishments with no known connections between the business owners. The stolen items represent a diverse range of high-value merchandise including:
- High-end bags and jackets
- Cannabis products
- Vape products
- Cash
- Automated teller machines (ATMs)
- Safes
Police have emphasized that the total impact includes both direct property damage and retail losses, with the combined value reaching the upper estimate of $1 million.
Arrests and Charges Announced
In late January, officers arrested and charged Logan Murell, 30, and Tristan Kaiser, 42. Earlier this month, police apprehended a third suspect, Abram Dyck, 47. The three men now face a comprehensive list of charges including:
- 35 counts of break-and-enter to commit theft
- 35 counts of disguise with intent
- 42 counts of possession of stolen property over $5,000
Police have not confirmed whether all three men remain in custody, and court dates have yet to be scheduled.
Cross-Agency Collaboration Proves Effective
Acting Staff Sergeant Meagan McIntyre of the EPS southwest branch highlighted the successful inter-agency partnership that led to the arrests. "The EPS was able to lead a successful cross-agency partnership to combat a break-and-enter series that impacted multiple communities in Alberta," McIntyre stated in a release.
Morinville RCMP Staff Sergeant Darcy McGunigal echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of collaborative policing efforts. "This investigation highlights the harm that one small group of offenders can cause to communities," McGunigal said. "Strong partnerships between policing agencies are essential to combating prolific offenders."
The investigation demonstrates how specialized equipment intended for emergency rescue operations can be repurposed for criminal activities, resulting in substantial financial damage to local businesses. Edmonton police continue to work with RCMP detachments to address similar criminal enterprises throughout the region.
