Kamloops RCMP arrest 8 prolific offenders and issue 37 charges

The Kamloops RCMP have had a busy summer for far with eight people being arrested and 37 charges being approved in July.

The arrested, and weapon seizures are the result of an enforcement campaign that aims to target prolific and well-known offenders, a news release said.

One of the arrests, which happened on July 18, involved a traffic stop with a motorcycle.

Police said the rider was arrested after allegedly kicking a police officer. The man, identified as Richard Graham, remains in custody awaiting bail and is facing 10 charges for firearm offence and the alleged assault of an officer.

“The Kamloops RCMP Detachment continues to prioritize combating serious offenders by targeting individuals involved in weapons offences and violence,” said Superintendent Jeff Pelley.

Seven more arrests were made between July 10 and 19.

The RCMP said those were related to multiple warrant executions, stolen vehicles, weapons and drug offences and intimate partner violence.

During the past month, six other separate accused were charged and arrested, the RCMP said in a news release.

Michael Luttman was charged with six offences including three for firearms and weapons offences, and is currently in custody awaiting a bail hearing.

Nicholas Dekelver has been charged with three offences including driving while prohibited and has been detained by the court.

According to the news release, Spencer Adams has been charged with five offences including dangerous operation of a motor vehicle and is currently in custody awaiting a bail hearing.

Blake Bernhard is facing two charges for offences including assault causing bodily harm and assault by choking. He has been detained by the court.

The RCMP said Cameron Jewett has been charged with five offences including possession of firearms.

According to the news release, Joshua Ippolito is charged with two offences including driving while prohibited, two offences of theft under $5000.00 and two offences of driving while prohibited.

“An investigation is still underway in relation to a firearm that was seized during the arrest of the eighth individual,” the release said. “The Kamloops RCMP Detachment anticipates recommending charges on this matter.”

The RCMP encourage the public to continue reporting suspicious or criminal activity by calling the detachment at (250) 828-3000.