A months-long investigation spanning from mid-2024 across Cold Lake to St. Paul has resulted in the seizure of illegal drugs, firearms, currency, and stolen property.
Three individuals now face multiple charges, according to a January 27 release from RCMP.
“With the assistance of the Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team (ALERT) in both Edmonton and Lloydminster, investigators eventually became aware of a network of illegal drug flow through much of the Lakeland area spanning from Cold Lake to St. Paul,” stated RCMP.
The Cold Lake General Investigation Section (GIS) launched an extensive investigation into the network which led to two search warrants executed on January 22.
Searches were conducted at a residence in the town of St. Paul and another in the county of St. Paul, with support from RCMP Eastern Alberta District’s Crime Reduction Unit and General Investigations Section, Police Dog Services, and members of the St. Paul, Elk Point, and Lac La Biche RCMP Detachments, and Cold Lake GIS.
As a result, police seized approximately 620 grams of suspected methamphetamine, 464 grams of suspected cocaine, large quantities of prescription pills, over 1,000 grams of illegal cannabis, four firearms, body armor, and $10,000 in Canadian currency. Investigators also recovered stolen property, including two snowmobiles and a trailer.
“Co-operation between police agencies, units, and detachments was essential in the successful conclusion of this investigation,” said Cpl. Ben Burgess of Cold Lake GIS. “Drug trafficking networks have no borders and require a collaborative effort to disrupt and dismantle. It is believed that these drug seizures will have a significant effect on the town of St. Paul and the entire Lakeland area.”
Ignatius Rumbolt, a 73-year-old St. Paul resident, faces charges including possession for the purpose of trafficking a controlled substance, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, possession of a restricted firearm with ammunition, tampering with a firearm’s serial number, and possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose.
Rumbolt, who was reportedly in breach of a Condition Sentence Order from previous charges, has been denied bail. His next court appearance is set for January 30, in St. Paul.
Thomas Hinch, a 40-year-old Stettler resident, is charged with trafficking a controlled substance, possession for the purpose of trafficking, unauthorized possession of a firearm, and other offences. He has been released with conditions and is scheduled to appear in St. Paul court on February 6.
Shyanna Mills, a 21-year-old Drumheller resident, faces similar charges, including trafficking a controlled substance and unauthorized possession of a firearm. Mills was denied bail and remains in custody until her January 30 court appearance in St. Paul.
Cold Lake RCMP is seeking assistance in identifying suspicious activity in the area. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Cold Lake RCMP at 780-594-3301 or their local police. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
