A prolific break and enter suspect is facing charges following a string of break-ins in southeast Alberta.

ALERT Medicine Hat’s regional property crime unit began investigating the break-ins in November 2022 after receiving numerous reports from local businesses.

Several fast food restaurants were targeted in and around the city, as well as a strip mall.

“A number of businesses were hit in a short amount of time and our team worked quickly with everyone involved. We appreciate the community’s patience as we continue the investigation,” said Staff Sgt. Ryan Thorburn, ALERT Medicine Hat.

On March 8, 2023, police executed on a search warrant on a home in the Crescent Heights neighborhood in Medicine Hat. Kris Simons, 35-years old of Medicine Hat, was arrested and charged with the following:

• Break and enter (business) x9;
• Breach of release order; and
• Theft under $5,000.

Simons remains in custody.

The Medicine Hat Police Service and Redcliff RCMP assisted throughout the investigation.

Members of the public who suspect drug or gang activity in their community can call local police, or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Crime Stoppers is always anonymous.

ALERT was established and is funded by the Alberta Government and is a compilation of the province’s most sophisticated law enforcement resources committed to tackling serious and organized crime.