Two Charged Following Stolen Vehicle Recovery in Edmonton

In a recent investigation, two individuals have been charged after police recovered a total of 12 stolen vehicles valued at a staggering $780,000. Among these vehicles were four Lexus SUVs, which law enforcement agencies say are particularly attractive to thieves.

The saga began on July 17 when authorities discovered a stolen 2003 GMC Sierra in the vicinity of 109 Avenue and 143 Street. This initial find led to the uncovering of three more stolen vehicles, including a luxury Lexus RX350, in the Inglewood area.

On the following day, investigators from the Edmonton Police Service were alerted by the RCMP regarding a stolen 2023 Jeep Gladiator that had been taken from Red Deer. This Jeep was located in Edmonton and subsequently led officers to seven additional stolen vehicles in the Glenora area, which included three more Lexus SUVs.

As a result of their findings, a 46-year-old man and a 43-year-old woman have been charged with possession of stolen property over $5,000 concerning the four vehicles retrieved on July 17. Acting Sergeant Tyler Watt of the Edmonton Police Service addressed the situation, highlighting the ongoing theft trend involving luxury brands.

Watt noted, “While a variety of vehicle models were recovered, three of the 12 vehicles were notably Lexus RX350 models, and one was a Lexus NX300. This aligns with an increasing pattern of thefts related to these particular vehicles.”

As a precautionary measure, police are reminding vehicle owners to take extra steps to protect their belongings. They advise removing all valuables from vehicles, parking in well-lit and secure areas, and using additional safety measures, like steering wheel locks, where possible.

So far, charges have not been filed concerning the remaining seven stolen vehicles.