On November 12, 2022, Hay River RCMP executed a vehicle stop on a vehicle traveling toward Edmonton on the Mackenzie Highway. As a result of the police officer's interactions with the driver, a criminal investigation was launched and the driver was arrested for drug trafficking. The vehicle was searched roadside and further indicators of criminality were located.
The Hay River RCMP then towed the vehicle to a secure location and obtained a search warrant to conduct a more thorough search of the vehicle. That search located three vacuum-sealed bags containing large sums of cash. The cash was recently processed and determined to be approximately $133,410.00.
A 37-year-old resident of Alberta was charged with Trafficking Cocaine pursuant to section 5(1) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, and Possession of Proceeds of Crime Exceeding $5000 pursuant to section 354(1)(a) of the Criminal Code. He was released by a justice of the peace and ordered to appear in court in Hay River on January 16, 2023.
This investigation is bittersweet for the Hay River RCMP. This illicit cash would have ultimately been destined to high-level criminals who prey on our most vulnerable citizens, and we are pleased we were able to intercept it before it could reach them. However, this is money that should have stayed in the community to pay for children's activities, groceries, diapers and other essentials. RCMP members see the daily impact of addictions in our communities, particularly in Hay River – a community that has recently suffered tragic losses as a result of addictions and the drug trade. We urge people to take back their community by reporting known or suspected drug activity to the RCMP.
Anyone who has information about this incident or any other illegal activity is asked to contact the Hay River RCMP at 867-874-1111 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.nwtnu.crimestoppersweb.com. In the event of an emergency call, 911.