Major Drug Seizure in Pembroke Results in Multiple Charges Against Ottawa Man and Quebec Woman
Ontario Provincial Police have made a significant drug bust in Pembroke, resulting in multiple charges against two individuals from different provinces. The incident unfolded on Wednesday when police stopped a vehicle on Alfred Street after identifying the driver as someone prohibited from operating a motor vehicle.
Traffic Stop Leads to Substantial Drug Discovery
According to a January 22 news release from the OPP, officers from the East Region Community Street Crime Unit conducted the traffic stop after recognizing the driver as an individual with driving restrictions. What began as a routine traffic enforcement action quickly escalated into a major drug investigation when police searched the vehicle.
The search yielded a substantial quantity of suspected illicit substances, including more than 184 grams of suspected cocaine, nearly 22 grams of suspected crack cocaine, and more than 61 grams of suspected fentanyl. Police also seized nearly 180 grams of suspected crystal methamphetamine, approximately 81 grams of suspected MDMA, along with quantities of hydromorphone pills and morphine.
Multiple Charges Filed Against Both Suspects
The 39-year-old man from Ottawa faces numerous charges including six counts of possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking, possession of a Schedule 3 substance for the purpose of trafficking, and possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000. Additional driving-related charges include operation while impaired, refusing to provide a breath sample, and driving while under suspension.
The 31-year-old woman from Chapeau, Quebec, which is located north of Pembroke, has been charged with six counts of possession of a Schedule I substance for the purpose of trafficking, possession of a Schedule 3 substance for the purpose of trafficking, and failing to comply with a probation order.
Court Appearances Scheduled for Bail Hearings
Both individuals were scheduled to appear in court in Pembroke for bail hearings on January 22, according to police statements. The case represents a significant enforcement action by the OPP's specialized street crime unit in Eastern Ontario.
The substantial quantities of drugs seized during this operation highlight ongoing concerns about drug trafficking in the region, particularly involving dangerous substances like fentanyl and methamphetamine that have been linked to numerous overdose deaths across Canada in recent years.
