The Superior Court of Justice in Windsor has issued an arrest warrant for a fentanyl trafficker who failed to appear for his sentencing. Cylas Gilbert, 49, was scheduled to be sentenced on Monday afternoon for possession of fentanyl for the purpose of trafficking. However, he did not show up, with his lawyer Robert DiPietro Jr. explaining that Gilbert missed his train from Chatham to Windsor.
Judge Expresses Limited Patience
Superior Court Justice Bruce Thomas expressed frustration over Gilbert's absence, stating that the court has only a certain amount of patience given the stage of the proceedings. The judge noted that Gilbert is not unfamiliar with the criminal justice system and had previously failed to attend two meetings with a probation officer for his pre-sentence report. Justice Thomas remarked that he had suspected Gilbert's inattentiveness to probation would lead to issues with attendance.
Details of the Arrest
Gilbert pleaded guilty in April to one count of possession of fentanyl for the purpose of trafficking. His arrest occurred on November 5, 2023, when Windsor Police responded to a report of a man appearing under the influence in the driver's seat of an SUV. Officers found Gilbert asleep in the driver's seat, with a cache of drug paraphernalia visible in the front passenger seat. A search of the vehicle revealed a Ziploc bag containing 68.3 grams of fentanyl and a digital scale in a backpack in the backseat.
Brief Virtual Appearance
During a recess in court on Monday, Gilbert made a brief virtual appearance via Zoom, but his phone battery was at one percent. He offered to take the next train to Windsor but was no longer on the Zoom call when the hearing resumed a few minutes later. DiPietro Jr. noted that Gilbert was in Chatham due to health complications with his newborn son, but acknowledged that his lack of attendance seemed like a last effort for an adjournment.
Prosecutor's Response
Federal drug prosecutor Richard Pollock emphasized the seriousness of the offense, stating that it warrants jail time. He noted that Justice Thomas's message was clear: court orders must be followed. Gilbert was ordered to attend meetings with a probation officer to prepare a report, but he failed twice. Pollock stressed that individuals must take their responsibilities to the court seriously, as the court will enforce compliance.
