Two people are facing serious charges after police found more than $600,000 worth of illegal drugs and a loaded handgun during a traffic stop this week.
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Kingston Police say on Dec. 19, members of its drug enforcement unit conducted a traffic stop near Princess and Chatham streets where they allegedly seized “multiple varieties of illicit drugs and a loaded firearm” and arrested two people.
The driver of the vehicle was allegedly in possession of a fully loaded semi-automatic 9mm firearm, which police say was concealed in their jacket pocket.
A further search of the vehicle and occupants revealed “various types of illicit drugs, currency, ammunition as well as a suspected portable lab equipped with all instruments needed for the processing of fentanyl,” police said in a news release.
In total, investigators say they seized 1,500 grams of fentanyl, 1,634.6 grams of crystal methamphetamine, 778 grams of cocaine, 149 Percocet pills, and 276 Xanax pills. They also allegedly found 44 rounds of 9mm ammunition, a digital scale, along with multiple bowls, measuring cups and packaging materials.
The approximate street value of the items seized was $619,705, police said.
The driver of the vehicle, a 35-year-old Kingston resident, was arrested and charged with five counts of possession for the purpose of trafficking, possession of proceeds of crime, and numerous firearm offences. The person was also allegedly bound by five separate weapons prohibitions from past criminal convictions.
A 42-year-old person with no ties to Kingston was also arrested and charged with five counts of possession for the purpose of trafficking, and for being in possession of proceeds of crime.
Police say this person was also wanted by the Ontario Provincial Police for theft under $5,000 and is facing charges from the Ottawa Police for 33 counts of theft under $5,000, two counts of break and enter and commit, uttering death threats, and causing a disturbance, police alleged.
Both accused parties were transported to Kingston Police headquarters where they were held for bail hearings.
“This operation highlights the ongoing efforts of the Kingston Police to combat drug trafficking and illegal firearm possession within the city. It further illustrates the influx of fentanyl and other dangerous drugs in the city and highlights their detrimental effects on the community,” police said in the release.
“The Kingston Police strive to ensure the safety and security of the community. Investigators implore the public to assist with any drug and/or weapon information they may observe.”
Members of the public can use the online reporting portal, if applicable, or by contacting Detective Sergeant Shawn Birney at 613-549-4660 ext. 6323.
