Cannabis seized at RIDE check
Two people have been arrested and charged by the Manitoulin detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) following a Reduce Impaired Driving Everywhere (RIDE) check, which led to the seizure of a large amount of cannabis.
On November 19 at approximately 12:45 am, the Manitoulin OPP were conducting a RIDE check on Highway six near Espanola. A vehicle approached officers, and police noticed an odour of cannabis coming from the vehicle. Further investigation resulted in two people being arrested.
Additionally, officers located over 12 kilograms of dried cannabis, with a street value of approximately $41,200, over 140 packages of cannabis gummies with a street value of approximately $5,800, 50 cannabis vape pen cartridges with a street value of approximately $2,000 and over 10 grams of suspected cocaine, with a street value of approximately $1,000, and Canadian currency.
As a result, the driver, Edward Smagala, 58, from Annan and the passenger, Hao Dong Liang, 33, from Markham were both charged with possession of a schedule 1 substance-cocaine, possessing cannabis for the purpose of selling, possession for the purpose of distributing, possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime over $5,000.
WTPS respond to weapons call leading to drug charges
Two Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory residents have been charged with drug offences after an incident.
On November 18 Wikwemikong Tribal Police Service (WTPS) received a weapons report in one of the satellite communities of Wiikwemkoong.
WTPS responded and conducted a detailed investigation and upon entering the property police made it known officers were present with verbal commands. Officers knocked on the door of the house and requested the occupants exit, with one male exiting, and after some time a female exited.
As a result of this incident, the following were arrested and charged: Jarvis Shawana, 37 years old, from Wiikwemkoong was charged with possession of a schedule one substance for the purpose of trafficking cocaine, possession of schedule one substance for the purpose of trafficking, opioid, possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000, possession of a weapon for dangerous purpose, fail to comply with undertaking.
Crystal Lewis, 39, from Wiikwemkoong was charged with possession of a schedule one substance for the purpose of trafficking-cocaine, possession of a schedule one substance for the purpose of trafficking, opioid, obstruct peace officer, resist peace officer, possession of weapon for dangerous purpose, three counts of fail to comply with police order and fail to comply with prohibition order.
Both accused were remanded into custody for a bail court hearing November 21, 2024.
“Drug enforcement remains a top priority for the Wikwemikong Tribal Police Service,” the release states.
Police are requesting anyone with information regarding this investigation to contact police at (705) 370-3141. Should you wish to remain anonymous, you may call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477 (TIPS) where you may be eligible to receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.
Manitoulin OPP launching annual festive RIDE campaign
The Manitoulin detachment of the OPP is conducting their annual Festive RIDE campaign.
The Festive RIDE campaign runs from November 21 to January 1, 2025. This campaign is one of the OPP’s most important traffic safety initiatives, aimed at keeping Ontario roads safe from impaired drivers during the holiday season.
Community members can expect an increased OPP presence, as officers will be conducting frequent RIDE checks throughout the province, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. When approaching a RIDE check, please drive slowly and with caution.
The OPP will be using mandatory alcohol screening (MAS) to identify impaired drivers. The MAS law allows police to demand a roadside breath sample from any lawfully stopped driver. Fully licenced drivers who refuse to take a drug or alcohol test, or who register a blood-alcohol concentration over 0.08 percent, will face a 90-day licence suspension and a seven-day vehicle impoundment, along with criminal charges. Young, novice and commercial drivers (A-F, G1, G2, M1 and M2 licences) must follow the “zero tolerance” rule, meaning zero alcohol in their blood when driving. Drug-impaired driving is equally as dangerous, and drivers are subject to the same severe penalties.
“We urge everyone to do their part this holiday season: plan a sober ride home, prevent people you know from driving if they have consumed alcohol or drugs, and call 911 if you suspect or know that someone is driving impaired. Remember that impaired driving includes alcohol, cannabis, prescription or illegal drugs, or a combination.”
“As we kick off this year’s Festive RIDE campaign, our message is clear: Impaired driving is never acceptable. Our officers will be out in full force so that everyone can enjoy a great holiday season. We are urging all drivers to make responsible choices and help us ensure safe travels for all during this festive season,” said Inspector Robert Walsh, commander, Manitoulin detachment.
“Let’s work together to ensure that no family receives tragic news during this holiday season. If you observe an impaired driver, call 911 immediately. Your phone call could save someone’s life.”
Situation resolved in M’Chigeeng
One person is in custody after an incident in M’Chigeeng First Nation last Wednesday.
The Manitoulin OPP and United Chiefs and Councils of Mnidoo Mnising Anishinaabe Police had advised the public of a heavy police presence in the area of Lakeshore Road, in M’Chigeeng First Nation.
In an update on Friday, November 22 it was reported that the situation had been safely resolved, and there is no threat to public safety. One individual is currently in custody.
More updates will be released as they become available.
