FORT McMURRAY — A Fort McMurray youth is facing several criminal charges after police say the same rider fled from officers during four separate e-bike incidents.
Wood Buffalo RCMP say Municipal Traffic Services and Regional Municipality of Wood Buffalo Bylaw Services responded to four incidents of stunt driving involving the same e-bike and rider between June 15 and July 1.
Police say the rider refused to stop for officers and fled the area during each incident.
RCMP say officers did not pursue the fleeing rider because of concerns a pursuit could create a greater risk to public safety.
The rider was identified as a Fort McMurray youth on July 2 following an investigation conducted in partnership with municipal bylaw officers.
The youth cannot be named under provisions of the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
Police say the youth has been charged with four counts of flight from a peace officer, dangerous operation and obstructing a peace officer.
The allegations have not been proven in court.
“The safety of our community is our highest priority,” Sgt. Liz MacDonald of Wood Buffalo RCMP Municipal Traffic Services said.
“While refusing to stop for police is a serious criminal offence, our officers must continually assess whether pursuing a fleeing rider would create an even greater danger to the public.”
MacDonald said officers determined the safest decision was not to pursue the rider and later identified and arrested the youth through continued investigation.
The youth was released from police custody and is scheduled to appear in the Alberta Court of Justice in Fort McMurray on Aug. 17.
RCMP are encouraging residents to report criminal or suspicious activity, saying reports help police determine where to patrol and identify people involved in criminal activity.
Anyone witnessing a crime in progress is asked to call 911.
Anonymous tips can be provided to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or through the P3 Tips website or mobile app.
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