On June 10, while on a routine patrol, the Red Deer RCMP Crime Reduction Team (CRT), observed a vehicle with a licence plate cover that appeared to be painted white.
The modification prompted officers to initiate surveillance of the vehicle with the assistance of Air Services.
When officers attempted a traffic stop, the vehicle fled the scene at a high rate of speed. Officers monitored the vehicle's movements while minimizing risk to the public.
The vehicle eventually came to a stop, at which point members of the Emergency Response Team (ERT) and Police Dog Services (PDS) moved in.
The occupant of the vehicle was safely placed under arrest without further incident.
Upon arrest, officers located a loaded 45 caliber hand gun, magazines, ammunition, various pills and methamphetamine. A knife and $3,000 were also located.
Joseph Schneider, a 37-year-old resident of Red Deer, has been charged with the following offences:
- Possession of a restricted firearm in a motor vehicle
- Possession of a restricted firearm with ammunition
- Possession of firearm when knowing the possession is unauthorized
- Transport firearm in careless manner
- Possession of firearm and ammunition contrary to Prohibition order x4
- Possession of property obtained by crime under $5000
- Dangerous operation of a motor vehicle
- Flight from peace officer
- Operate motor vehicle while prohibited
Schneider was taken before a Justice of the Peace and was remanded into custody. His next court date is set for July 5, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Red Deer.