On April 29, 2025, Vermilion RCMP responded to a complaint of a break and enter in progress to a lease site in the County of Vermilion River. Due to the remote location, multiple Detachments responded, including Vermilion RCMP, Two Hills RCMP and Elk Point RCMP, along with Alberta RCMP Police Dog Services from Lloydminster.

Members attended to investigate and determined two suspects were involved, both of which were identified. One suspect was located following a dog track, while the other could not be located. A warrant for the arrest of the second was issued.

On June 1, 2025, Vermilion RCMP responded to a complaint of a break and enter in progress to a lease site near Highway 640. Due to the remote location, multiple Detachments responded, including Vermilion RCMP, Kitscoty RCMP and Elk Point RCMP, along with Alberta RCMP Police Dog Services (PDS) from Lloydminster, Alta. Members attended to investigate and located a suspect who was taken into custody in regards to this matter, as well as an outstanding warrant.

As a result of the April 29 investigation, Christopher Swindlehurst (47) and Colin Swindlehurst (50), both residents of Woodlands County, Alta., have been charged with: Break and enter; Mischief under $5000; Resisting arrest; Possession of break-in tools; Theft under $5000. Christopher Swindlehurst has since dealt with his matters before the courts. Colin Swindlehurst remains at large with a warrant issued for his arrest.

As a result of the June 1 investigation, James Hollis, a 54-year-old resident without fixed address, was arrested and charged with Break and enter as well as Possession of break-in tools. Hollis was brought before a Justice of the Peace, where he was ultimately released from custody. He is set to appear at the Alberta Court of Justice in Vermilion on July 7, 2025.

If you have any information on the whereabouts of Colin Swindlehurst or any other criminal activity, please contact the Vermilion RCMP at 780-853-5781. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).

Source:  Scott Rodgerson /Unsplash