As the result of a recent daytime Checkstop conducted on Highway 12 in Steinbach, local RCMP were able to arrest an individual who was found to be in possession of a stolen vehicle and counterfeit currency.
On December 10, 2018, at approximately 2:45pm, Steinbach RCMP and Eastman Traffic Services conducted a daytime Checkstop on Highway 12 in Steinbach as part of an ongoing Holiday Checkstop Program. The program focuses on the enforcement and prevention of impaired driving.
Police say that over 300 vehicles were checked with two warnings being issued for Highway Traffic Act offences.
RCMP report that one driver at the Checkstop had difficultly locating his registration and the licence he handed over to police did not belong to him. The licence plate also did not belong to the vehicle. Further investigation revealed that the vehicle was stolen and the driver was in possession of counterfeit currency, break-in tools and drug paraphernalia. The driver was subsequently arrested and the stolen vehicle seized.
As a result of the Checkstop, 38-year-old Cory Couture, from Winnipeg, is currently being held in custody and will be facing several charges ranging from identity fraud, possession of stolen property over $5000, possession of counterfeit currency, possession of break-in instruments and driving while disqualified.
Police noted that these Checkstops are meant to cause minimal delay to the public and primarily involve assessing the sobriety of drivers and looking out for high risk infractions. Spontaneous Checkstops also act as a deterrent for drivers that aren’t under the influence of alcohol or a drug now, but may be at a later time and need to make the right decision whether to drive or not.
