Downtown Division officers conducted a number of investigations from mid-June to early July to deter the trafficking of controlled substances in Edmonton’s downtown core.
A traffic stop during the evening of June 28, 2016 in the area of 116 Street and 104 Avenue resulted in the seizure of 67 grams of methamphetamine (street value of $6,800), weapons and ammunition, including a loaded firearm and a sword. Drug trafficking paraphernalia – scales, individually packaged bags of marijuana and multiple cell phones – were also located in the vehicle.
Nancy Chouinard, 38, and Brandon Cardinal, 29, were arrested during the traffic stop. Both are facing multiple charges, including possession for the purpose of trafficking and possession of a loaded prohibited/restricted firearm.
The EPS operation also included the execution of a search warrant at an apartment in the area of 106 Street and 107 Avenue on July 1, 2016. Officers seized 1.4 kilograms of marijuana ($9,000 street value), nearly $20,000 cash and $1,220 worth of contraband tobacco from the apartment.
David Petric, 60, was arrested without incident near the residence and charged with trafficking a controlled substance (x2) and possession for the purpose of trafficking.
The final investigation took place on July 7, 2016 with the execution of a search warrant on a residence in the area of 109 Avenue and 82 Street. Officers located a small quantity of methamphetamine and marijuana, scales, drug bags and a sword in the suite.
Hans Behrens, 52, was arrested in relation to the search warrant and charged with trafficking a controlled substance (x2), possession for the purpose of trafficking and possession of an offensive weapon dangerous to the public.
Six other individuals were arrested and charged during the course of the operation for offences related to trafficking methamphetamine, GHB and cocaine.
“The focus of this investigation was the safety of our downtown communities,” says Acting Staff Sgt. Brad Pearce with Downtown Division Beats. “Targeting drug trafficking and those involved with these dangerous activities helps address disorder in the area, making downtown Edmonton safer for all citizens.”