Swan Hills RCMP recover items stolen in break-and-enter

SWAN HILLS – The Swan Hills RCMP have recovered a number of stolen items and charged two individuals in connection with a break-and-enter at a commercial business within the town. 

According to an RCMP release, the Swan Hills detachment received a report on Nov. 7 regarding the break-in, during which the suspects stole a chainsaw and three firearms. 

After conducting an investigation, the RCMP executed a search warrant at a residence in Swan Hills and recovered the stolen firearms and chainsaw. 

Chad James Whyte, 46, has been charged with breaking and entering with intent to steal a firearm, trafficking firearms, unauthorized possession of a firearm, possession of a firearm contrary to a prohibition order, and four counts of theft under $5,000. 

Austin Shane Plamondon, 25, has been charged with breaking and entering with intent to steal a firearm, trafficking firearms, unauthorized possession of a firearm, four counts of theft under $5,000 and possession of a controlled substance (methamphetamine). 

Both Whyte and Plamondon, who are residents of Swan Hills, have been taken before a justice of the peace. 

Whyte was released on cash bail and will re-appear in Barrhead Provincial Court on Nov. 22. Plamondon was also released and will appear in Barrhead on the same date.