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Police arrest pair on stolen property trafficking charges

Nov 27, 2018 | 11:14 AM

 

MEDICINE HAT, AB — Two people from Medicine Hat are facing numerous charges after police broke up an alleged stolen property trafficking ring.

Scott Saunders, 37, and Lindsay Saunders, 34, have both been charged with trafficking in stolen property under $5,000, possession of proceeds of crime under $5,000, possession of purpose of trafficking under $5,000 and possession for the purposes of trafficking over $5,000.

The investigation by police began in October 2018, and involved property that was allegedly stolen from big box stores. Police allege the thefts took place in Medicine Hat, Coaldale and Lethbridge, and the items were being sold online on Facebook Marketplace and Kijiji.

The pair were arrested on Friday, according to Staff Sgt. Brian Christmann. Following the arrests, police conducted a search warrant in the area of College Drive Southeast, seizing property ranging from baby monitors, electric drills and welding equipment. The value of the seized property is estimated at $10,000.

Christmann says the incident is the latest reminder for people to do research whenever they’re buying online.

“If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is,” he said. “If the price is that good a deal, and it’s new, it’s a new item, there’s a high likelihood it could be stolen property.”

Scott Saunders was released on $2,000 no-cash recognizance with conditions. He is scheduled to appear in Medicine Hat provincial court on December 18.

Lindsay Saunders remains in custody, and is scheduled to appear in provincial court on Thursday.