Arrest Made Following Series of Costly Tire Thefts

Lethbridge… ALERT has arrested a Calgary man for his alleged role in a long-running series of organized vehicle tire thefts. At least eight Alberta car dealerships had been victimized.

Patrick Rouillard was arrested on July 31, 2019, after a lengthy investigation by ALERT Lethbridge’s organized crime team. The 31-year-old man allegedly stole more than $250,000 worth of vehicle tires and rims from multiple car dealerships across Alberta.

The thefts date back to March 2016 and impacted car dealerships in Lethbridge, Leduc, Taber, Wetaskiwin, and Calgary. During the investigation, ALERT relied on the assistance of Lethbridge Police, Calgary Police, Taber Police, and RCMP detachments in Wetaskiwin and Leduc.

ALERT alleges that at least eight break and enters had occurred:

1. March 2016 – Lethbridge;
2. May 2016 – Lethbridge;
3. July 2016 – Leduc;
4. October 2016 – Lethbridge;
5. October 2016 – Lethbridge;
6. January 2018 – Taber;
7. June 2018 – Wetaskiwin; and
8. October 2018 – Calgary.

None of the stolen property was recovered. ALERT alleges Rouillard sold the stolen tires.

“These dealerships incurred significant costs and I’m sure it is a relief to end to this crime spree and have someone held accountable,” said Insp. Sean Boser.

Rouillard has been charged with seven counts of breaking and entering, and one instance of breaking and entering with intent to commit theft.

Members of the public who suspect drug or gang activity in their community can call local police, or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Crime Stoppers is always anonymous.

ALERT was established and is funded by the Alberta Government and is a compilation of the province’s most sophisticated law enforcement resources committed to tackling serious and organized crime. Members of Calgary Police Service, Edmonton Police Service, Lethbridge Police Service, Medicine Hat Police Service, and RCMP work in ALERT.