NEWS RELEASE
GUELPH POLICE SERVICE
*************************
In response to the ongoing opioid crisis, members of the Guelph Police Service Drug Unit have continued to address this issue through enforcement. This investigation began in January of 2019, specifically targeting the trafficking of “blue” and “purple” fentanyl. The Guelph Police partnered with the Owen Sound Police Drug Unit and a source of Fentanyl was identified.
On March 15, 2019, the Drug Unit in cooperation with the BEAT Team arrested two individuals and seized $9,400 worth of blue fentanyl.
March 20, 2019 - This investigation has now resulted in two search warrants being executed in Guelph’s west end, two more men being arrested and 266 grams of purple and blue fentanyl being seized. These drugs have an approximate street value of $80,000. Police also seized a quantity of Canadian and American currency as well as two cross bows, a police style expandable baton, and pepper spray. The searches also led to the seizure and recovery of stolen property valued at approximately $2,000.
A 44-year-old Guelph man has been charged with two counts of trafficking a controlled substance, two counts of possession for the purpose, possession of a controlled substance, possession of stolen property under $5,000, possession of a prohibited weapon and nine counts of possession of a weapon contrary to order. He has been held in custody pending a bail hearing.
A 58-year-old Guelph man has been charged with possession for the purpose and possession of a controlled substance. He has been held in custody pending a bail hearing.
A warrant for the arrest of a third party has been requested.
A third search warrant was executed later that day at a storage locker discovering more stolen property and a handgun.
Update:
On March 21, 2019, the third person wanted in relation to this investigation was arrested.
The 28-year-old Guelph female has been charged with possession of a controlled substance for the purpose, possession of stolen property and knowledge of unauthorized possession of prohibited weapon. She will next appear in court on April 9, 2019.
On April 3, 2019, the 44-year-old male was further charged with possession of stolen property over $5,000, careless use of firearm, unauthorized use of firearm, knowledge of unauthorized use of firearm, tampering with a serial number, possession of a controlled substance, possess illicit cannabis and three counts of possess weapon contrary to an order. He remains in custody and will appear in bail court on April 10, 2019.
On April 3, 2019, the 58-year-old male was further charged with possession of stolen property over $5,000, careless use of firearm, unauthorized use of firearm, knowledge of unauthorized use of firearm, tampering with a serial number, possession of a controlled substance and possess illicit cannabis. He remains in custody and will appear in bail court on April 8, 2019.
*************************
