Strathmore RCMP received a complaint of an erratic driver swerving and nearly side-swiping other vehicles on December 7, at approximately 3:00 p.m.

The vehicle was reported travelling Eastbound on Highway 1 towards Strathmore, the RCMP caught up with the vehicle at the intersection of Highway 1 and Westmount Road where the vehicle appeared stalled and the driver was seen exiting the vehicle in an attempt to leave the area.

The driver was taken into custody and the vehicle left stalled in the intersection was found to be stolen earlier in the day from Innisfail and contained other stolen items including a purse and other bags. The driver was also bound by three separate driving prohibitions and was exhibiting signs of impairment.

The driver was returned to the detachment for sobriety testing, but he refused to complete the examination. During a search of the vehicle and driver’s effects, several pieces of identification and credit cards were found which did not belong to him. Several unauthorized purchases were confirmed by the owners of the identification and credit cards.

“I’d like to thank the motorists who reported the erratic driving of this vehicle. It led to the recovery of stolen property and in no small measure helped to keep our roads safe," said Staff Sergeant Mark Wielgosz – Detachment Commander Strathmore RCMP

The driver, Matthew Burton with no fixed address was held for a bail hearing and charged with:

  • Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000;
  • Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5,000;
  • Operating a Motor Vehicle While Prohibited X 3;
  • Unlawful Possession of Government Documents X 8;
  • Unlawful Use of a Credit Card;
  • Failure to Comply with a Demand (impairment by drug); and
  • Other Traffic Safety Act offences.

Burton was released on conditions to appear at a later date. The investigation is ongoing and further charges may be laid.