On April 7, 2024, at approximately 6 p.m., Vermilion RCMP proactively conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for littering while travelling on Highway 16 in the County of Minburn.
Upon investigation, it was determined that the driver of the vehicle did not possess a driver's licence. Drugs were observed within the vehicle, which led to the arrest of both occupants. Further search located a significant quantity of drugs, including over 500 grams of cocaine.
As a result of this investigation, a 38-year-old individual, a resident of Lloydminster, Alta., was charged with:
- Possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking;
- Possession of crack cocaine; and
- Possession of methamphetamine.
A 28-year-old individual, a resident of North Battleford, Sask., was charged with:
- Possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking;
- Possession of crack cocaine;
- Possession of methamphetamine; and
- Fail to hold a valid operating licence.
Both individuals were held for Judicial Interim Release hearings where both were released from custody. The 38-year-old individual is set to appear next on April 22, 2024, while the 28-year-old individual is set to appear next on May 6, 2024, both at Alberta Court of Justice in Vermilion.
"Not only are traffic stops effective at increasing police visibility and reducing aggressive driving, but they can also result in unexpected outcomes such as this," said Sgt. Corey Buckingham, Vermilion Detachment Commander. "Excellent work by the members involved to transition from what was a simple provincial offence, into a significant drug investigation."