On February 5 at around 3:00 a.m.,  Strathmore RCMP members responded to an erratically driving vehicle that hit the ditch on Range Road 264 South of Lyalta. Upon arrival, the two occupants of the vehicle were struggling to free it from the snow. On first examination, the vehicle was confirmed to be stolen out of Calgary four days prior.  Two men in the vehicle were arrested and a search of the vehicle and suspects resulted in the seizure of 65 grams of suspected methamphetamine with a potential street value of $6,500, identification belonging to other people, and a stolen Calgary Fire Department badge.  

Both were transported to the Strathmore Detachment and held for a bail hearing. 35 year old Fort McMurray resident Dustin Tienkamp and 43 year old Calgary resident Mazen Chehade were both charged with: 

  • Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000;
  • Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5000;
  • Possession of a Controlled Substance; and
  • Possession of a Controlled Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking.
exhibits seizedPhoto Courtesy Strathmore RCMP

Chehade was remanded into custody during his hearing while Tiencamp was released on conditions during his hearing for a future court date. At the time of their arrest, Tienkamp was bound by a probation order, and Chehade was wanted on 10 outstanding warrants from Calgary.

“This investigation is another positive example of timely public reporting of dangerous driving habits or suspicious activity. A single call can lead to the apprehension of wanted persons, recovery of stolen property, and seizure of illicit drugs capable of great harm in our communities. I’d like to pass along my thanks for the continued public support in reporting crime,” said Strathmore RCMP Detachment Commander Staff Sergeant Mark Wielgosz.

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