WEYBURN — One of two men charged in connection with a rash of thefts in Midale this summer has confessed to some charges.
Gerald Edward Keenatch pleaded guilty to six counts of trespass at night Oct. 22 in Regina Provincial Court. Eight other charges were stayed: six for breaking and entering a place and committing an indictable offence; one for possession of a break-in instrument; and one for violating the terms of a release order.
He received an 18-month suspended sentence. Keenatch is also subject to several conditions, including to stay out of Midale.
His co-accused, Francis John DesJarlais, still has his matters before the court. He is facing the same charges as Keenatch, except DesJarlais does not have the release order charge. DesJarlais’ most recent appearance was Oct. 28 in Weyburn Provincial Court, and he will be back in court Nov. 20.
Background: According to a news release from the Saskatchewan RCMP, members of the Weyburn detachment received several reports early July 26 of break and enters to vehicles and garages in Midale. Items reported as stolen included electronics, tools, cigarettes and change.
The Weyburn RCMP continued to investigate with the assistance of the Saskatchewan RCMP’s Remotely Piloted Aircraft System and Police Dog Services. Later that same day, officers located and arrested Keenatch and DesJarlais.
SaskToday will continue to monitor this story.
