Former Barnwell councillor facing numerous criminal charges

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The Taber Police Service have laid charges against a Barnwell resident following a two-year investigation.

Alberta Transportation provided circumstances regarding a former employee, after allegations of theft and misappropriation of resources were brought to light.

The Taber Police Service allege a long-serving and senior employee of Alberta Transportation, during his employment with the government, converted government assets by selling them to unsuspecting clients. The proceeds of the sales of the stolen goods directly benefited the accused.

In one case, it is alleged several barrels of Gravelock were sold to a third party at a discounted rate. The proceeds were allegedly paid directly to the accused.

The retail cost of Gravelock is $70,000.

Further allegations reveal over 11,000 tonnes of government-owned gravel was sold to third parties in the area, and payment was made directly to the accused. The total retail value of gravel stolen and converted was over $110,000.

The investigation also revealed the accused, while an agent for the Government of Alberta, allegedly received money from a highway maintenance sub-contractor, over a six-year period, to ensure they were awarded a contract.

In April of 2013, the accused caused numerous road signs to be purchased and provided them to an acquaintance, free of charge, outside of Alberta Transportation’s jurisdiction. The road signs were of a value exceeding $2,000.

Darrell Turner (62), has been charged with Section 334(a) of the Criminal Code of Canada (Theft over $5000), Section 380(1)(a) of the Criminal Code of Canada (Fraud over $5000), and Section 426(1)(a) of the Criminal Code of Canada (Secret Commissions–Corruptly obtaining a Financial Advantage).

Mr. Turner was brought before an Alberta Justice and was released after a Judicial Interim Release Hearing with conditions for Taber court. His first appearance is scheduled for Aug. 7.

Turner was formerly a long-serving council member for the Village of Barnwell, along with being former deputy mayor.

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