Drugs, cash, and stolen items were seized by RCMP after a search warrant was executed on two residences in Cold Lake North.
On March 15, Cold Lake RCMP General Investigations Section concluded the drug trafficking investigation within the City of Cold Lake. With help from the Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team (ALERT) in Lloydminster, and the Cold Lake Detachment, police executed a search warrant at the two residences.
About 283 grams of suspected cocaine, 63 grams of suspected methamphetamine, 112 grams of suspected buffing agent, and over $5,000 in Canadian currency were reportedly seized by RCMP. Also, ammunition and drug-trafficking paraphernalia were reportedly found.
Two snowmobiles that had been reported stolen were also seized, along with a 2022 Chevrolet Silverado believed to be used in the commission of offences.
“Illegal drug trafficking has a negative impact on the safety of the communities where it takes place while the people engaged in these activities profit," said Cpl. Ben Burgess. "The Cold Lake General Investigations Section will continue to investigate illegal drug traffickers in the Cold Lake area. If you feel there is drug trafficking taking place in your community please contact the Cold Lake RCMP or Crime Stoppers."
Brandon Hunter, 38, Cold Lake, was charged with possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking, possession of proceeds obtained by crime, and possession of ammunition contrary to a prohibition order.
Karen Desjarlais, 40, a resident of Cold Lake, was charged with possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking, possession of proceeds obtained by crime, and possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000.
Desjarlais and Hunter were brought before a justice of the peace. Hunter was remanded into custody and was scheduled to appear at the Cold Lake Alberta Court of Justice on March 20, while Desjarlais was released and will appear in court on March 27.
