Vermilion RCMP seized a significant quantity of drugs, including over 500 grams of cocaine, following a traffic stop on Highway 16 that was initiated due to suspects allegedly littering.
At about 6 p.m. on April 7, Vermilion RCMP stopped a vehicle for littering while travelling on Highway 16 in the County of Minburn.
"Upon investigation, it was determined that the driver of the vehicle did not possess a driver’s licence," according to police. Drugs were seen in the vehicle, which RCMP say led to the arrest of both occupants.
A further search located "a significant quantity of drugs."
“Not only are traffic stops effective at increasing police visibility and reducing aggressive driving, but they can also result in unexpected outcomes such as this," said Sgt. Corey Buckingham, Vermilion Detachment Commander. He commended RCMP members for transitioning from what was "a simple provincial offence, into a significant drug investigation.”
Penny McCoy, 38, a resident of Lloydminster, was charged with possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking, and possession of cocaine and methamphetamine.
Kevin Kahmahkotayo, 28, a resident of North Battleford, Sask., was similarly charged, along with being charged with not having a valid operating license.
Both individuals were held for Judicial Interim Release hearings where both were released from custody. McCoy is set to appear in court on April 22, while Kahmahkotayo is set to appear on May 6, both at Alberta Court of Justice in Vermilion.
