Two arrested after fuel theft and vehicle damage in Smoky Lake

On the evening of September 29, Smoky Lake RCMP responded to a report of theft at a rural property located on Highway 855 near Township Road 584. The call came in at 7:15 p.m., and upon arriving at the scene, police spoke with the property owner, who described the incident in detail.  

The property owner reported discovering that his vehicle had been damaged, and fuel had been stolen. Shortly after, he witnessed a vehicle enter his property, only to flee when he attempted to approach it. The RCMP were able to locate the vehicle south of the property. Two suspects were seen fleeing from the vehicle into a densely wooded area.  

With assistance of a witness, RCMP officers were informed of a potential hiding spot within the nearby heavy brush. Police entered the area and successfully located and arrested the two suspects.  

One of the suspects, 38-year-old David Gessleman, a resident of Edmonton, has been charged with multiple offenses, including theft of fuel, mischief, trespass at night and resisting arrest.  

Gessleman was brought before a Justice of the Peace and released, with his next court appearance scheduled for October 24, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Fort Saskatchewan.  

Charges are still pending for the second male suspect, who was also apprehended for resisting arrest.  

Authorities are encouraging anyone with information about illegal activities in the area to contact Smoky Lake RCMP at 780-656-3691.