Mother and Daughter Among Four Charged in Niagara Falls Drug Trafficking Operation
Niagara Regional Police have arrested four individuals, including a 72-year-old mother and her 39-year-old daughter, in connection with a drug trafficking investigation in Niagara Falls. The arrests were made following the execution of a search warrant at a residence near Thorold Stone Road and Cardinal Drive on Monday.
Authorities allege that the suspects were involved in the trafficking of controlled substances, including cocaine, crystal methamphetamine, and hydromorphone. The investigation began earlier this month after detectives received information about illegal drug activity in the region.
Details of the Arrests and Charges
The following individuals have been charged:
- Desanka Mrkalj, 72, of Niagara Falls, faces charges of possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000, possession of a schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking (cocaine, crystal meth, and hydromorphone).
- Dragica Mrkalj, 39, of Niagara Falls, faces the same charges as Desanka Mrkalj.
- Darrell Kennedy, 66, of Niagara Falls, faces identical charges.
- Jason Jursza, 43, of Niagara Falls, faces charges of possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000 and possession of a schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking (cocaine).
Seized Items and Estimated Street Value
During the search, detectives reportedly seized a significant quantity of drugs and other items, including:
- 368.5 grams of suspected crystal methamphetamine, with an estimated street value of $18,400
- 52 grams of suspected cocaine, valued at approximately $5,200
- 100 tablets of suspected Dilaudid (hydromorphone), valued at around $2,000
- 12 bottles of suspected methadone
- A .22 calibre pump action air pistol
- $485 in Canadian currency
The total estimated street value of the seized drugs is over $25,600.
Police Appeal for Information
Niagara Regional Police are urging anyone with information about this incident to contact them at 905-688-4111, option 3, extension 1009667, or to reach Crime Stoppers of Niagara online or by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Tips can be submitted anonymously.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges may be laid as the case progresses.
