Palmer Bilash inside his family farm after it was ransacked. (Jaryn Vecchio/paNOW Staff)

By Jaryn Vecchio

Wanting Answers

P.A. man shocked and frustrated after family farm ransacked

Jun 16, 2022 | 3:00 PM

A Prince Albert man is looking for answers after his family home was ransacked.

Palmer Bilash visited the farm where he grew up last week discovering the house, sheds, and equipment had all been searched and damaged. He currently lives in P.A. but travels south of town to the farm multiple times a week.

The home is being used for storage, but when Bilash went in all he saw was a complete mess.

“Everything was piled up nice and neat and it’s just turmoil now.”

The first thing you notice when walking up to the home is evidence of the front door being pried open.

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Front door of the Bilash family farm. (Jaryn Vecchio/paNOW Staff)

Walking inside is a challenge as there’s barely any space along the floor that isn’t under some sort of item.

Cabinets are wide open, shelves have been pulled down, and family photos have been knocked off the walls.

Inside of the Bilash family farm. (Jaryn Vecchio/paNOW Staff)

“It’s disgusting and hurts really bad seeing the damage somebody can do to someone else’s property,” added Bilash.

So far, it’s not known exactly what was taken. Bilash has only noticed what’s been taken from sheds and equipment including wheelbarrows, sockets, and even a security camera.

Sheds on the Bilash farm, which are usually locked and covered up. (Jaryn Vecchio/paNOW Staff)

He claims he reached out to the Prince Albert RCMP who visited the farm. In a statement sent to paNOW, the RCMP stated they were called to the residence and are continuing to investigate.

Bilash stated he shared with them that he believes whoever did this was familiar with his schedule as he mainly stays inside the city. However, he doesn’t want to speculate, he just wants his items returned and those responsible to be held accountable.

Meanwhile, Eric Schmalz, Reeve for the RM of Prince Albert, explained he hadn’t heard of Bilash’s situation but he noted his region has been seeing an increase in crime.

He said their community safety officer and RCMP have done great work in deterring some crime, however, there’s only so much they can do.

“There are member shortages and staffing complements aren’t where they need to be. They’re patrolling a large geographic area with limited numbers that aren’t up to standard for that many squared kilometers.”

Moving forward, Schmalz added the RM wants to meet with the RCMP and provincial government to figure out a way to get more officers in the region and help lower crime rates.

—

Jaryn.Vecchio@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @princealbertnow