Cold Lake RCMP crack down on drug trafficking two arrests made

On March 15, the Cold Lake RCMP General Investigations Section successfully concluded a drug trafficking investigation within Cold Lake.

Collaborating with the Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team in Lloydminster and the Cold Lake Detachment, law enforcement executed a search warrant at two residences in Cold Lake North.

During the search warrant’s execution, law enforcement officials seized a substantial cache of illicit substances related to paraphernalia and other incriminating items. The seized items included approximately 283 grams of suspected cocaine, approximately 63 grams of suspected methamphetamine, approximately 112 grams of suspected buffing agent, over $5000 in Canadian currency, ammunition, multiple drug trafficking paraphernalia, two stolen snowmobiles, and a 2022 Chevrolet Silverado believed to have been utilized in the commission of criminal activities.  

Subsequent investigations led to the apprehension of two individuals allegedly involved in the illicit activities.  

Brandon Hunter, 36, a Cold Lake resident, faces charges including possession of a controlled substance for trafficking, possession of proceeds obtained by crime, and possession of ammunition contrary to a prohibition order.  

Karen Desjarlais, 40, also a Cold Lake resident, is charged with possession of a controlled substance for trafficking, possession of proceeds obtained by crime, and possession of property obtained by crime over $5000.  

Both suspects were brought before a justice of the peace. Hunter was remanded into custody and is slated to appear at the Cold Lake Alberta Court of Justice on March 20. Desjarlais was released and is scheduled to appear at the same court on March 27.  

Cpl. Ben Burgess emphasized the detrimental impact of illegal drug trafficking on community safety and reiterated the Cold Lake General Investigations Section’s commitment to combating such activities. He urged residents to remain vigilant and report suspicious drug-related activities to the Cold Lake RCMP or Crime stoppers.