Carolyn Grant
There has been another spate of drug arrests in Kimberley and Cranbrook, as the local RCMP Detachment continues its ongoing drug investigations.
Cpl. Chris Newel of the Kimberley Detachment reports four successful drug seizures in Kimberley and Cranbrook where the primary drug seized was cocaine. However, police are concerned with a couple of trends accompanying the arrests.
"Police are concerned about the weapons found and the places these transactions are being conducted," Newel said. "Drug trafficking was found to be taking place at common businesses in both communities including stores, banks and near the Platzl in Kimberley. They were also taking place during the day."
• On November 20, a 51-year-old female from Moyie was arrested at a local convenience store. A search located two grams of cocaine on her person. Charges of Possession of a Controlled Drug for the Purpose of Trafficking are being recommended.
• On November 27, a 24-year-old male and 21-year-old female from Cranbrook were arrested near a bank in Cranbrook. They were in possession of two grams of cocaine. They are facing trafficking charges.
• On November 28, a search warrant was executed on 4th Street NW in Cranbrook. A
male and female were arrested and charges of Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking are being recommended. Inside police found two ounces of powder cocaine, almost one ounce of crack cocaine, a
small amount of marihuana, cash and two police style batons.
• On December 1, a 21 year old male from Wycliffe was arrested near the Chamber of Commerce office in Kimberley. Two grams of cocaine was seized. Again charges of trafficking are being recommended."
Cocaine is typically sold in one half and one gram increments, Newel said.
It is a concern to police, he said that these drug transactions are taking place at public places during daylight hours. He says the individuals involved come to police attention from the public or other investigations.
"From that police conduct follow up and/or surveillance in order to gather further evidence. A arrest is made after police obtain sufficient evidence that an offence has taken place."
A further concern is the weapons being found with some of these arrests. Newel says that the Cranbrook search warrant executed on November 28, resulted in two police-style batons being found. A previous search on November 7 produced a bat, bear spray a large machete and other items that could be used as a weapon.
"Those involved in the drug trade often have weapons to protect themselves or intimidate others, but it puts the public at risk. During the use of these weapons any person young or old could be severely injured."