ALERT arrests suspected thief wanted on Canada-wide warrant in Edmonton

ALERT arrests suspected thief wanted on Canada-wide warrant in Edmonton

June 6, 2012

Edmonton… ALERT’s Fugitive Apprehension Sheriffs Support Team (FASST) has apprehended a 41-year-old Edmonton man who is allegedly connected to a number of thefts from businesses.

Gerald Johnston had been positively identified in several surveillance videos and had a Canada-wide arrest warrant for being an unlawfully at large parolee. On June 5, with assistance from the Edmonton Police Service (EPS), FASST tracked Johnston to the west end where he was arrested near 111 Avenue and 154 Street.

On May 28, the EPS asked for the public’s assistance in locating Johnston who was allegedly connected to thefts at gas bars, a sandwich shop and a retail outlet. The suspect made off with a significant amount of cash in the majority of the incidents, which took place between April 18 and May 20.

FASST tracks and arrests criminals who are wanted on outstanding warrants in Alberta and have previously evaded capture. The team plays an important role in promoting safe, secure communities by arresting criminals who evade capture and decreasing the likelihood of them re-offending and re-victimizing Albertans. The support of FASST allows local police more time and resources to focus on other priorities like community policing and criminal investigations.

ALERT encourages the public to report suspicious activity or tips regarding people wanted on outstanding warrants by calling police or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

Made up of provincial sheriffs, and RCMP and EPS members, FASST is an ALERT team funded by the Government of Alberta. FASST works with other ALERT units to tackle serious and organized crime around the province. Over 400 municipal police, RCMP and sheriffs work for ALERT.

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Media inquiries may be directed to:
Jill Baird
Communications
Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams (ALERT)
780-509-3028