Traffic stops conducted between May 4 to May 9 by Alberta RCMP’s Roving Traffic Units (RTU) on Highway 16 led to several major seizures.
Officers stopped vehicles in the Vermilion (RTU North) and Chestermere RCMP (RTU South) areas. Multiple traffic tickets were issued along with several drug and contraband charges.
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On May 4, RTU North officers stopped a vehicle to check the driver’s licence and registration. They suspected drug activity and searched the vehicle. Police seized 10 kilos of methamphetamine and 2 kilos of cocaine with a street value of about $920,000.
Darcy Chernowsky, 33, from Roberts Creek, B.C., is charged with two counts of possession for the purpose of trafficking. He was released on conditions and set to attend court at the Alberta Court of Justice in Vermilion on July 7.
On May 6, RTU North members stopped another vehicle for an equipment issue. Officers saw unstamped tobacco in the vehicle and searched it. Police seized 90,000 cigarettes worth about $44,000.
Kimberly Butterfield, 53, of Alberta Beach, Alta., is charged with possession of unstamped tobacco, possession for the purpose of trafficking, and fraud over $5,000. She was released on conditions and will appear in Vermilion court on July 7.
On May 8, an RTU South officer stopped a vehicle to check the driver’s sobriety. The officer suspected drug activity.
Police dog Mando searched the vehicle and gave a positive signal. Officers found 260 grams of fentanyl and 10 grams of cocaine. The drugs have a street value of about $53,000.
Ibrahim Al-Taai, 21, of Saskatoon, Sask., is charged with possession of fentanyl for the purpose of trafficking, possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking, obstructing a police officer, and identity fraud. He was released on conditions and will appear in the Alberta Court of Justice in Calgary on June 20.
“RTU teams target areas that are transportation routes, where there is a likelihood of intercepting those who are trafficking in illegal goods, while still providing enhanced traffic enforcement in the area,” said S/Sgt Darrell Dickinson, Traffic Service Coordinator for Alberta RCMP Traffic.
“The success of these specialized units highlights their importance as well as their efficiency in targeting travelling criminals and reducing illicit drugs from reaching the streets.”
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