On July 15, 2025, Cochrane RCMP’s Crime Reduction Unit (CRU) executed a search warrant at a rural property in Rocky View County, recovering more than $300,000 in stolen property and seizing a significant quantity of illicit drugs.
The investigation was launched following intelligence gathered by the RCMP Auto Theft Unit. According to police, the successful operation highlights the strength of collaboration between specialized RCMP divisions.
“This investigation is a great example of how collaboration between specialized RCMP units leads to meaningful results,” said Cochrane RCMP Detachment Commander, Inspector Dave Brunner. “Property crime has a real impact on our communities, and our members are committed to identifying prolific offenders and holding them accountable.”
Among the items recovered were:
- A 2023 Dodge Ram pickup
- A 2013 Triumph Thruxton 900 motorcycle
- A holiday trailer and a utility trailer
- Two high-value aesthetic laser devices, reported stolen during a 2024 break-and-enter in Calgary, valued at over $300,000
Additionally, officers seized over 100 grams of suspected methamphetamine and MDMA.
As a result of the investigation, 64-year-old Darren Wright of Rocky View County has been charged with multiple offences, including:
- Possession of stolen property over $5,000 (x2)
- Possession of a forged document (x3)
- Fraud (x3)
- Altering a vehicle identification number (x3)
- Possession of a controlled substance (x2)
Wright was released from custody on conditions following a Judicial Interim Release Hearing. He is scheduled to appear in the Alberta Court of Justice in Cochrane on August 18, 2025.
