Following an unusual rise of vehicle and vehicle content thefts in Shaunavon and surrounding communities over the past couple months, Shaunavon RCMP are reminding people living in both urban and rural areas to lock their vehicles, remove valuables and to never leave your keys in the ignition.

Several stolen vehicles from Alberta have also been recovered in the Shaunavon and southwest area.

On September 18 Medicine Hat Police Services arrested 20 year old Justin Richard Castor of Medicine Hat on charges of Flight from Police, Dangerous Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Possession of Stolen Property, Possessing a Stolen Credit Card, and Breach of Probation. 

A joint investigation involving RCMP Detachments from southwest Saskatchewan and The Medicine Hat Police Services have resulted in additional charges from Saskatchewan for Castor.

The Shaunavon Detachment has issued an arrest warrant for him for two counts of Theft of a Motor Vehicle, two counts of Possession of Stolen Property, and four counts of Breach of Probation.

Castor appeared in court in Medicine Hat on September 25 and was held in custody. His next court appearance is October 17, also in Medicine Hat.

Police are continuing to investigate, and anyone with information should contact The Shaunavon RCMP or Crimestoppers.