In mid-March, Saskatchewan RCMP's Warrant Enforcement and Suppression Team (WEST) began actively investigating the whereabouts of 38-year-old Dustin Ratt, who was wanted on an outstanding warrant from Prince Albert Police Service for escaping lawful custody.
As a result of continued investigation, on March 23 RCMP WEST determined Ratt was at a residence on Ahtahkakoop Cree Nation. Officers approached the residence and observed Ratt fleeing in a truck.
A tire deflation device was quickly set up by WEST. The truck drove over it and was disabled. Ratt fled on foot to a wooded area. RCMP WEST tracked him to a nearby residence, where he was arrested without incident. Investigation determined the truck he was driving had been reported as stolen in Shellbrook on March 22.
As a result of further investigation, Ratt is charged with:
- one count, possession of the proceeds of crime over $5,000, Section 354(1)(a), Criminal Code;
- one count, flight from peace officer, Section 320.17, Criminal Code; and
- one count, resist/obstruct peace officer, Section 129(a), Criminal Code.
Ratt was also arrested on the warrant from Prince Albert Police Service. He made his first appearance in Prince Albert Provincial Court on March 24, 2023.
Ahtahkakoop RCMP, Big River RCMP and Saskatchewan RCMP's North Battleford Crime Reduction Team assisted in this investigation.
Background: The Saskatchewan RCMP's Warrant Enforcement and Suppression Team (WEST) supports the apprehension of high-profile offenders and gang members with outstanding warrants. WEST works throughout the entire province, in partnership with municipal police services.