Russell RCMP are investigating a bizarre case involving the theft and shooting of six bison from a farm in the RM of Russell-Binscarth. The investigation eventually led to an arrest of a resident of Portage la Prairie.
According to an RCMP press release, the incident took place this past Sunday when the farm’s owner Brendan Liske noticed that the locks on his pasture gates had been removed and replaced with unfamiliar ones. Upon further inspection, Liske discovered that the bison were missing. Trail camera footage revealed that four individuals had entered the property with a pickup truck and off-road vehicles, shot the bison, and hauled them away.
The following day, Liske found a social media ad offering bison hunts for $1,000 per animal at the very same location. Liske, who never posted the ad, took to social media to warn others about the theft. Several people who responded to the post admitted they had participated in the hunt, believing it was legitimate. Three people, who thought they were on an authorized hunt, then came forward and are now cooperating with the investigation.
Liske revealed that he had previous business dealings with the suspect, a man named Shawn Gebler, who had sold him bison earlier this year. However, Liske felt misled regarding the condition and breeding of the animals, which ultimately led to a breakdown in their business relationship.
The community's response to Liske's plight has been overwhelmingly supportive. Several individuals reached out, confirming they had booked hunts with Gebler, which could have resulted in further losses for Liske had he not acted quickly.
Wednesday, Russell RCMP issued an arrest warrant for 52-year-old Gerald Sean Gebler of Portage la Prairie. Gebler turned himself in to Portage RCMP later that day and has been charged with Theft Over $5,000 and Mischief Over $5,000. He was released and is scheduled to appear in court in Russell on January 22, 2025.
The investigation is ongoing, and more charges may be laid.