THUNDER BAY – It was only a week ago that more funding for the fight against gangs and weapons were announced in Thunder Bay. “The Ontario Government’s commitment to PAVIS funding allows police services to effectively target criminals and to remove guns from our communities. The strategy helps increase community safety by involving citizens in efforts to rid Ontario neighbourhoods of gang activity and drug dealing.” commented Bob Herman, Chief of Police and President of the Ontario Association of Chiefs of Police.
In the days since that announcement there have been a number of drug raids by police, and the seizure of weapons and drugs.
Officers from the Combined Forces Organized Crime Unit executed a Controlled Drugs and Substances Act Search Warrant in Thunder Bay earlier today, resulting in the arrest of one person scheduled to appear before the courts in Thunder Bay, March 3, 2011. Seized were 114 grams of cocaine, 48 grams of psilocybin, 17 grams of marihuana, 35 Ritalin tablets, 3 Oxycodone tablets, 2 Percocet tablets and drug paraphernalia. Also seized were several prohibited weapons including knives, brass knuckles and “throwing stars”.
The total street value on the drugs seized is approximately $13,000.00.
“The combined seizure of drugs and weapons in this case, demonstrates the continued success of the combined efforts of our local law enforcement partners,” says S/Sgt Normand Roy.
Charged under the Controlled Substance Act and Criminal Code of Canada is Joshua Trotz a 22 years old male who lives in Thunder Bay.
Possession of a Controlled Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking (2 counts)
Possession of a Controlled Substance (1 count)
Possession of a prohibited weapon (4 counts)
The Combined Forces Organized Crime Unit consists of members from The O.P.P.- Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau, The Thunder Bay Police Service, The R.C.M.P., The Nishnawbe-Aski Police Service and The Anishinabek Police Service.