Joint project removes wanted offenders from city streets

The Lethbridge Police Service, in partnership with the Alberta Sheriffs Fugitive Apprehension Sheriff Support Team (FASST), executed more than 60 outstanding warrants during a two-week joint initiative targeting wanted offenders.

The project, which ran from September 2 to 11, involved members of the LPS Crime Suppression Team and FASST working together to locate individuals wanted on warrants for serious offences ranging from assault with a weapon, sexual interference and incest, to unlawful confinement, distribution of sexually explicit materials and failing to provide the necessities of life.

“Collaborating with FASST to bring these violent offenders into custody reflects our shared commitment to making communities safer,” said Chief Shahin Mehdizadeh. “Ensuring offenders are held accountable remains a priority for our Service, and we will continue to pursue those who attempt to evade the consequences of their actions.”

FASST is a specialized unit of Alberta Sheriffs that collaborates with police agencies across the province to apprehend fugitives, including escaped prisoners, individuals with outstanding warrants and offenders in violation of parole.

As a result of the short-term initiative, 11 offenders were located and brought to justice. In several cases, investigators determined that additional subjects had left the city and partner law enforcement agencies in those jurisdictions were notified in an effort to facilitate additional apprehensions.

“The Alberta Sheriffs Fugitive Apprehension Sheriff Support Team are a valuable support to local law enforcement throughout the province,” said Mike Ellis, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Servicers. “I’m pleased to see that FASST’s recent collaboration with the Lethbridge Police Service has resulted in another resounding success that has made the city’s streets and neighbourhoods safer for residents. We will not tolerate crime in this province. If you do the crime, you will be caught and you will go to jail.”