In Dec. 2020, the Leduc RCMP Crime Reduction Unit in partnership with other local law enforcement agencies, began investigating catalytic converter thefts in the Leduc and Edmonton area. Leduc RCMP have responded to over 20 calls for service regarding catalytic converter thefts, most of which involved multiple thefts.
On May 21, 2021, with the assistance of Leduc RCMP Drug Unit, a 43-year-old male out of Devon was charged under the Scrap Metal Dealers and Recyclers Identification Act (SMDRIA). This is one of the first charges of this type under the new Act in all of Alberta. The 43-year-old male, was witnessed by the RCMP performing a transaction involving a catalytic converter without obtaining the proper documentation under Section 3(1)(a) SMDRIA.
The 43-year-old male was issued a summons and is scheduled to appear in Leduc Provincial Court on July 21, 2021.
An individual can be fined a maximum of $10,000 for the first offence and up to $25,000 for the second/subsequent offence or up to one-year imprisonment under this act. A corporation can be fined a maximum of $50,000 for the first offence and up to $200,000 for the second/subsequent offence.
Leduc RCMP Crime Reduction Unit will be continuing its investigation into the catalytic converter thefts and utilizing the Scrap Metal Dealers and Recyclers Identification Act to deter criminals in regards to this ongoing issue.