“If you have unused or dated prescription drugs in your home, this is a great reminder to dispose of them properly, especially if you live with small children,” says Patti Stark with the Alberta Centre for Injury Control and Research.  “Just because a cap on a bottle is child-resistant, doesn’t mean it’s 100 per cent childproof.”

Residents are further reminded that they can return any unwanted or outdated prescription medications to their local pharmacy for safe and secure disposal at any time.

“Certain prescription drugs, like opioids, stimulants, sedatives, and tranquilizers are also associated with serious harms such as poisoning, addiction, overdose, and death if they are used without proper medical supervision,” says Det. Guy Pilon with the EPS Drug and Gang Unit.  “These drugs if not used appropriately can have a devastating impact on people’s lives and their families, and we urge individuals to dispose of these properly to keep them from falling into the wrong hands.”

Alberta is home to over 1,000 licensed community pharmacies.  To find a pharmacy close to you, please go to http://pharmacists.ab.ca/nRegistrationLicensure/FindPharmacy.aspx.

For information about the ENVIRx program for the environmentally-friendly disposal of pharmaceuticals, please go to http://www.rxa.ca/ForthePublic/MedicationDisposal.aspx.

Robin Denise Cort, 27, of Edmonton, was charged with Impaired Driving Causing Death, Over 80 mg % Causing Death, and Refusal Causing Death.  Additional charges are pending the completion of the collision investigation.

Background:
EPS Downtown Division patrol officers responded to a report of a serious injury collision at Kingsway and Princess Elizabeth Avenue at approximately 5:40 p.m. on Monday, April 28, 2014.  It was reported by witnesses that a Honda Accord was travelling eastbound on Kingsway, when the car allegedly attempted a left-hand turn onto Princess Elizabeth Avenue.  A Mack Tridem travelling westbound on Kingsway with the right-of-way struck the car in the intersection.  The 27-year-old female driver of the car was treated and transported to hospital by EMS with minor injuries.  EMS declared the 27-year-old male passenger of the car deceased on scene.  The 27-year-old male driver of the tractor trailer did not report any injuries.  The EPS Major Collision Investigation Unit continues to investigate the fatal collision. This was Edmonton’s fifth traffic fatality for 2014.

Veillard was last seen before noon on Friday, May 2, 2014, near the McKernan/Belgravia LRT station in Southwest Edmonton.

“We took over the file from Southwest Division Monday morning, after patrol officers had exhausted their efforts during a lengthy search over the weekend,” said Sgt. Neil Zurawell, of the EPS Missing Persons Unit. “We share the community’s concern, and will continue to conduct our investigation.”

Anyone who might have information on Louise’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Edmonton Police Service at 780-423-4567or #377 from a mobile phone.  Anonymous information can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.tipsubmit.com/start.htm.

Missing Person: Louise Veillard, 26

The service’s School Resource Officers are encountering increases in the use of marijuana oil by some students, who are using E-cigarettes to inhale the potent marijuana-based derivative. The E-cigarettes do not produce any discernible marijuana odour. Five incidents have been reported or discovered by School Resource Officers over the last two weeks; and many more where electronic cigarettes are being found on students.

“These devices only produce vapour, as opposed to smell of marijuana smoke, some youth are now recognizing this is as surreptitious way to use marijuana,” explained Sgt. Kelly Rosnau, of the EPS School Resource Officer Unit.

“The user, however, is inserting marijuana oil in the E-Cigarette cartridge, a substance that can often have THC contents higher than 90 per cent as compared to the typical marijuana cigarette which is around 10-20 per cent THC levels.”

An electronic cigarette is a battery-powered device which simulates tobacco smoking by producing a vapor that resembles smoke. It generally uses a heating element known as an atomizer, which vaporizes a liquid solution. Some solutions contain a mixture of nicotine and flavorings, while others release a flavored vapor without nicotine.

The secondary concern is safety. The production of this oil is not very safe as large amounts of butane are used and a risk of explosions can be a real hazard.

“Supporting student health and safety is always our first priority,” said Pat Lema, Assistant Superintendent of Edmonton Catholic School District Operations. “The Edmonton Police Service has shared their concerns with us about an increased use of electronic cigarettes and we have amended our ‘Smoke Free Environment’ District policy and regulation to include a ban of e-cigarettes on all District property,” Lema went on to say.

To ensure the health and safety of students and staff, the Superintendent of Edmonton Public Schools has asked principals to prohibit the use of e-cigarettes by students or staff on school property. This is in keeping with their policy on conduct and behavior.

“Edmonton Public Schools fully supports the Edmonton Police Service in making the community aware of any dangerous emerging trend,” says Superintendent Darrel Robertson. “As a District, we will do what we can to not only enforce the restriction of the e-cigarette use around our schools, but to making sure our students, staff and parents are educated of its dangers.”

Note:  Please see the attached Fact Sheet for media distribution.

Lori Nagy
Manager of Media and Community Relations Services
Edmonton Catholic Schools
Contact: 780-441-6189

Jane Sterling
Communications Supervisor

780-429-8290

The spring 2014 commercial vehicle check resulted in 251 vehicles being inspected, with 729 violations, 108 summonses, and 11 vehicles towed from check points.  Only 29 per cent of vehicles passed inspection, 19 per cent required attention, and 52 per cent were declared out of service.

Similarly in spring 2013, 364 vehicles were checked, with 1,012 violations, 156 summonses, and 39 vehicles towed.  Only 31 per cent passed inspection, 27 per cent required attention, and 42 per cent declared out of service.

“This is a good reminder for drivers to inspect their trucks and trailers before leaving their company parking lots,” says Sgt. Kerry Bates with the EPS Commercial Vehicle Inspection Detail.  “It’s the driver’s responsibility to ensure their vehicle operates safely – so take the time to check for regular maintenance, that equipment works, and loads are properly secured and compliant with regulations.”

The EPS in partnership with numerous provincial regulatory agencies conducted the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) inspections on vehicles over 4,500 kg along the city’s major roadways from May 6 to 8, 2014.  Safety inspections focused on overweight loads, faulty equipment, securement of loads, over-dimensional loads, dangerous or stolen goods, and the condition of drivers.

The EPS Traffic Section conducts commercial vehicle checks throughout the year to help ensure safe commercial vehicle operation and safe roads for all motorists.   

Background:

Grand Total May 6 - 8, 2014
Vehicles Checked: 251
Declared Out of Service: 132 (52%)
Required Attention: 47 (19%)
Pass: 72 (29%)
Vehicles Towed: 11
CVSA Violations: 729
Summons: 108
Warrants: 2

May 8, 2014 (Day 3 of 3)
Vehicles Checked: 60
Declared Out of Service: 28 (46%)
Required Attention: 13 (22%)
Pass: 19 (32%)
Vehicles Towed: 1
CVSA Violations: 196
Summons: 28
Warrants: 0

May 7, 2014 (Day 2 of 3)
Vehicles Checked: 100
Declared Out of Service: 52 (52%)
Required Attention: 19 (19%)
Pass: 29 (29%)
Vehicles Towed: 2
CVSA Violations: 261
Summons: 28
Warrants: 0

May 6, 2014 (Day 1 of 3)
Vehicles Checked: 91
Declared Out of Service: 52 (57%)
Required Attention: 15 (17%)
Pass: 24 (26%)
Vehicles Towed: 8
CVSA Violations: 272
Summons: 52
Warrants: 2

On Friday, May 9, 2014 at approximately 11:50 p.m. it was reported that a red 2003 Mitsubishi Lancer was travelling southbound on Calgary Trail, approaching 55 Avenue. The vehicle lost control after approaching a bend in the road, mounted a curb, collided with a concrete bus bench and rolled over into a west service lane. The 19-year-old driver of the vehicle was ejected out of her vehicle.

Police and EMS responded however, the driver was pronounced deceased on scene.

Police investigations reveal the driver was not wearing her seatbelt and excessive speed was a factor in the fatal collision. There were no other occupants in the vehicle.

EPS Major Collisions Unit is investigating this collision and believe two other unidentified vehicles may have been involved in street racing with this vehicle.  

This is Edmonton’s sixth traffic fatality for 2014.

Anyone with information regarding the collision or two suspect vehicles is asked to contact the Edmonton Police Service at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.tipsubmit.com/start.htm.

EPS responded to a report of an injury collision on Saturday, May 10, 2014 at approximately 4:30 p.m. in the area of 76 Street and 154 Avenue. It was reported that a 1999 GMC Sonoma was travelling westbound on 154 Avenue when the front passenger side of the vehicle struck a parked 2011 Chevrolet Silverado. A 24-year-old female passenger sustained fatal injuries and died on scene. The 22-year-old male driver was treated and transported to hospital by EMS with non-life threatening injuries. 

The investigation continues and chargers are pending against the male driver.

Anyone with information regarding the collision is asked to contact the Edmonton Police Service at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.tipsubmit.com/start.htm.

An exchange of gun fire took place between a suspect and police. 

EMS responded and the suspect was pronounced deceased on scene. An Edmonton Police Officer was injured and transported to hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

The Alberta Serious Incident Response Team (ASIRT) has been notified and will be taking over the investigation. ASIRT investigates all officer involved shootings.

The Edmonton Police Service will not be able to provide further comment.

Tuesday, May 13, 2014 at 10:00 a.m.

Police Headquarters – Atrium (9620 – 103A Avenue)

The focus of the kick-off will be Crime-Free Multi-Housing. Throughout the rest of the week, the Edmonton Police Service will educate Edmontonians on the importance of preventing crime before it happens.

 “Our goal is to educate the public on how to protect themselves, their family, and their assets,” says Sgt. Daryl Mahoney with the EPS Crime Prevention Unit. “Crime prevention is a key component to violence reduction in our city.”

 Another focus for the week is false alarms.

 “Responding to false alarms uses up valuable resources,” notes Mahoney. “Our Alarm Control Detail team works hard all year to share tips on alarm awareness. During Crime Prevention Week, we’ll release new tips each day on edmontonpolice.ca, Facebook and Twitter.”

 The Crime Prevention Team is also concerned about bicycle safety. Children are encouraged to submit bicycle safety tips throughout the week. Each day, Mahoney and his team will select one tip to showcase on Twitter and Facebook. The children who submit winning tips to Crimepreventionfacebook@edmontonpolice.ca will be awarded with new bike helmets. The helmets will fit children who are five – ten-years-old.

 2014 Crime Prevention Week – media availabilities

On Wednesday, May 14, EPS will host a safety presentation for seniors at Queen Alexandra Lodge (10825 – 77 Avenue), from 2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

 “This popular course is already full. Keep checking edmontonpolice.ca, and we’ll let everyone know when the next course is running,” advises Mahoney.

On Thursday, May 15, the Collaborative Policing Unit will host a free full-day "Hard Target" course. This course is designed to educate men and women on how to protect themselves in various crime-related situations. The course blends crime prevention and personal safety tips with basic self-defence techniques.

 “Each time we run this course, it fills up quickly, so we will be running more courses in the future. We’ll post upcoming dates on edmontonpolice.ca,” notes Mahoney.

In support of Crime Prevention Week 2014, Detective Allen will be available to discuss this case, as well as others:

Tuesday, May 13, 2014

2:00 p.m.

EPS Economic Crimes Office

12308 – 111 Avenue, Inglewood Plaza)

Mahoney will be on-site at the EPS Hard Target Personal Safety Training Course:

Thursday, May 15, 2014 @ 2:00 p.m.
William Griesbach Training Centre
14310 109 Street NE

The one-day course is designed to educate men and women on how to avoid, and as a last means, protect themselves in various crime-related situations.

“The day will be very mentally and physically demanding for the 50 students who participate, and very rewarding as well,” said Acting Sgt. Lawley. “Many of our previous graduates have found the experience to be extremely empowering.”

Founded several years ago by Lawley, Hard Target blends crime prevention and personal safety tips with basic self-defence techniques.

Media are welcome to attend.

Last weekend, Edmonton lost two young females in fatal collisions. Citizens have control of the road – there is no need for speed.

This week marks the annual Canada Road Safety Week that runs from May 13-19, 2014. Law enforcement agencies throughout the country will be out on the road promoting safe driving practices.

Canada Road Safety Week is an initiative reminding drivers to make conscious safety decisions whenever they get behind the wheel. This enforcement-driven campaign is designed to increase public awareness and provide education on the importance of safe driving behaviours.

Targeted enforcement during Canada Road Safety Week will focus on:

Impaired driving

• Seatbelt and child restraint use
• Aggressive driving (i.e. speeding, stop sign infractions, running red lights)
• Distracted driving
• Motorcycle safety

“The Edmonton Police Service encourages you to drive safely on our roadways. We often see preventable serious injury collisions and tragic traffic fatalities over long weekends,” says Acting Staff Sgt. Gary Lamont with EPS Traffic Section. “Last year in Edmonton, there were over 3,200 injuries and 26 fatalities from collisions. Many of these could have been prevented with safe driving practices.”

From May 13-20, 2013, there were 2,482 tickets issued in Edmonton during Canada Road Safety Week. Of those, 1,136 were for speeding, 70 for seatbelt violations, and 232 were for other hazardous moving violations. There were also 59 impaired driving arrests and 18 roadside suspensions.

Roadway safety also affects pedestrians and cyclists. In 2013, one cyclist and nine pedestrian fatal collisions occurred in Edmonton. In total, there were 177 collisions involving cyclists and 298 collisions involving pedestrians last year.

“Everyone using the roadways – whether it is drivers, pedestrians or cyclists – all have a responsibility to keep themselves and each other safe,” says Lamont. “Take your time and put safety first. There is no need to speed in our community.”

“There have been many sleepless nights for my family, as holidays and birthdays go by without our beloved son and brother in our lives,” said Mark Samuels, Justin’s father, who asked that media respect the family’s privacy as they continue to grieve. “Today, we want to make a plea to the general public for anyone with information about the violent death of our son to come forward to police.”

Samuels, whose photo is included below, died after sustaining multiple stab wounds to his body in the early morning hours on May 15, 2013, while at the former Hex Lounge, near 107 Street and 104 Avenue.

“Based on the circumstances surrounding the fatal stabbing, it’s readily apparent that Mr. Samuels was specifically targeted by his attacker that evening,” said Det. John Tedeschini with the EPS Homicide Section. “The attack on Justin was sudden, vicious, and relentless. It is now a year since the homicide, and we continue to appeal to the public for any information surrounding his murder.”

Anyone with information about the murder of Justin Mark Samuels is asked to contact the EPS non-emergency line at 780-423-4567or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.tipsubmit.com/start.htm.

Background:
Patrol members driving in the vicinity of the lounge were flagged down by a citizen, at approximately 1:45 a.m. on Wednesday, May 15, 2013.

Upon arrival inside the lounge, police found Samuels on the ground suffering from multiple stab wounds. Paramedics rushed Samuels to hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

A knife-wielding, male suspect fled the scene on foot and was last seen running south on 107 Street.

 Justin Samuels, 25: Fatally stabbed
on May 15, 2013 at the former Hex Lounge

At approximately 4 p.m. on Monday, May 12, 2014, the body of the missing woman was discovered by RCMP search teams in a forested area just off the road several kilometres north of where the woman’s car was previously discovered.

The Edmonton Medical Examiner conducted an autopsy on the body on Thursday, May 15, 2014, and identified the deceased as Anina Hundsdoerfer, 32.  EPS detectives found no signs of foul play and the death is considered to be non-criminal in nature at this time.  As the death is considered non-criminal, no further information will be released by police.

The Hundsdoerfer family has asked the EPS to convey their thanks to those members of the public who phoned in tips or helped in the search for Anina.

Background:
Anina Hundsdoerfer was reported missing to the EPS by her roommate on Sunday, March 23, 2014.  It was believed that Hundsdoerfer’s last known location was the office where she worked, near 99 Avenue and 108 Street, between 1 and 3 p.m. on Saturday, March 22, 2014.  Her disappearance was out of character, and there were concerns for her well-being.  Alberta Fish and Wildlife officers located Anina’s 2005 Toyota Echo parked along the side of Highway 734 (Forestry Trunk Road) between Rocky Mountain House and Nordegg on the afternoon of Tuesday, March 25, 2014.  The EPS Missing Persons Unit was notified, and the RCMP Rocky Mountain House Detachment confirmed the finding.  The EPS with the assistance of the RCMP continued to actively search for Hundsdoerfer.  RCMP dog teams covered a significant amount of ground in the area despite the terrain, snow accumulation and weather conditions.

The Edmonton Police Service CAT initiative is a unified, focused, highly-visible policing concept, with an organized mobile police unit created for maximum contact, enforcement and education. This week, CAT will prowl the river valley and connected ravines on foot, with mountain bikes and on segways.

“The city receives about 400 complaints every year, voicing their concerns about crime and disorder they encounter when using the river valley,” Acting Sgt. Scott Gargan explains. “The city’s river valley system is shared by everyone in the community and this CAT deployment will address citizen concerns and ensure the river valley is safe for everyone.” 

Often, people make the river valley their temporary home. This CAT deployment is an opportunity to clean up encampments and have outreach workers and medically trained members provide assistance to those in need. Some of these parks have become prone to disorder and illegal activities such as prostitution, drugs and graffiti vandalism.

CAT will focus on locating and removing temporary campsites, provide aid and assistance where needed, enforcement and a clean-up of refuse, debris, tents and other hazardous materials.

CAT is part of the ongoing EPS Violence Reduction Strategy, which brings an increase of police and other resources together to reduce crime and victimization. CAT deployments are highly visible and mobile, and have been successful in quickly addressing a wide range of criminal and social issues since September of 2011.

For more information about the EPS Violence Reduction Strategy, please visit www.edmontonpolice.ca/vrs.

Downtown and West Division members initially converged on the converted bus near 97 Avenue and 199 Street at approximately 10:45 a.m., Tuesday, May 13, 2014, after receiving a complaint regarding alleged threats made by a suspect at that location.

Upon arrival, officers discovered numerous loaded handguns and military-grade arms, including M-14 and Chinese SKS rifles and over-capacity magazines.

Yannick Desnoyers, 25, is charged with careless use/storage of a firearm, restricted weapon (x12), possession of a prohibited, restricted and loaded weapon (x3), careless use/storage of a firearm, weapon or ammunition (x3) and several other firearm-related charges.

At approximately 8:30 a.m. on Friday, May 16, 2014, the Edmonton Police Service responded to a downtown address to investigate an alleged kidnapping of an adult female complainant, who had just escaped from a male abductor.

The woman was reportedly taken against her will to her workplace, where the suspect then demanded money from the complainant.  The female then successfully fled into a nearby business, where employees locked the door and called 911.

Investigators have since learned this is the second time the male suspect had taken the female against her will.  The first occurrence was on Monday, April 28, 2014. In that incident, the same male suspect is alleged to have forced the woman into her vehicle and transported her to a downtown residence where she was held for three days with the assistance of a female suspect. 

On Thursday, May 1, 2014, the complainant was left alone and successfully escaped.  She did not require medical attention.  Her truck, however, was stolen at that time and has not yet been located.

Susan McClinton, 46, was arrested and charged with Unlawful Confinement and Uttering Threats.

Investigators have since issued multiple kidnapping, robbery and weapon-related warrants for the arrest of Jesse Thomas Flamant, 27, of Edmonton (see attached photo).

Flamant is considered armed and dangerous and remains at large. The public is advised to not approach the suspect, but to contact police immediately if his whereabouts become known.

Anyone with information about these incidents or Flamant’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Edmonton Police Service at 780-423-4567or #377 from a mobile phone.  Anonymous information can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.tipsubmit.com/start.htm.

Jesse Thomas Flamant, 27:
Kidnapping warrants

“Thankfully, there were no fatalities this long weekend,” says Acting Staff Sgt. Gary Lamont. “But drivers still need to slow down and obey the speed limit. These speeding vehicles can put the drivers, other motorists and pedestrians in harm’s way. There is no need for speed.”

Over a four-day period, from Friday, May 16 to Monday, May 19, 2014, EPS Traffic Section issued 1,574 tickets – that does not include tickets issued by any patrol members in the city.

On Saturday, May 17, 2014, EPS members ticketed many ‘high flyers’ on Anthony Henday, just west of Manning Drive. The area is currently marked at 70km/h in a construction zone. Three separate vehicles were caught travelling 123 km/h, 126 km/h and 134 km/h.

On Monday, May 19, 2014, police caught a vehicle travelling 142 km/h on Whitemud Drive which has a posted speed limit of 80 km/h. On Groat Road and Emily Murphy Park Road, another vehicle was speeding 51 km/h over the posted limit.

EPS officers caught a vehicle speeding 72 km/h over the posted limit in the area of 97 Street and 120 Avenue. That vehicle was travelling 132 km/h in a 60km/h zone.  The driver of the vehicle had outstanding driving related warrants and was charged with dangerous driving.                                                                                                               

Another vehicle was stopped at 91 Street and 23 Avenue because it was speeding at 124 km/h in a 70km/h zone. Another driver that was stopped by police at the same location had 12 outstanding driving suspensions dating back to 1988. He was charged with an additional criminal driving suspension, obstructing a peace officer, personation with intent to obtain advantage. 

In addition to the dangerous speeders on our roadways, there were also 25 impaired driving arrests made by the Edmonton Police Service over the four-day long weekend. Citizens are doing their part to ensure the roadways are safe – 13 of those impaired driving arrests stemmed from Curb the Danger calls.

Curb the Danger is a citizen-run program. If a citizen suspects an impaired driver, they are encouraged to call 9-1-1 and report the last direction of travel of the suspect vehicle, make of vehicle and a license plate. Annually, between 38% and 45% of vehicle intercepts result in an impaired driving charge or 24-hour license suspension. If police are unable to intercept the suspect vehicle, a letter is sent to the registered owner of the vehicle stating their vehicle was reported to Curb the Danger by a concerned citizen.

“We can all do our part to prevent serious injury collisions and even death – slow down and get there safely,” says Lamont.

A male in his 20’s died yesterday when his Mazda pick-up truck collided with a Ford pick-up truck on 50 Street and 20 Avenue at approximately 6 p.m. Investigations show that the Mazda truck, while travelling southbound on 50 Street, crossed into the northbound lanes, and collided with the other vehicle.

The man was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The driver and one passenger in the Ford truck were treated by paramedics and taken to hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The investigation continues into the cause of the collision.

Anyone with information regarding the collision is asked to contact the Edmonton Police Service at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.tipsubmit.com/start.htm.

EPS Downtown Division patrol officers responded to a report of a collision at 112 Street and 100 Avenue at approximately 7:30 a.m. on Thursday, May 22, 2014. Witnesses reported that both the cyclist and the waste management vehicle were travelling eastbound on 100 Avenue in the right-hand lane. The cyclist allegedly proceeded eastbound into the intersection as the vehicle made a southbound turn onto 112 Street and struck the cyclist.

EMS responded to the scene and the cyclist was pronounced deceased. The driver of the waste management vehicle, a 47-year-old male, did not sustain injuries.

There is no indication at this time that speed or alcohol were factors in the collision. This is Edmonton’s ninth traffic fatality for 2014.

Anyone with information regarding the collision is asked to contact the Edmonton Police Service at 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone. Anonymous information can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.tipsubmit.com/start.htm.