Report of stolen vehicle brings to light potential drug trafficking and leads to multiple charges against suspects.
(KENORA, ON) – Kenora OPP report that a stop of a reported stolen motor vehicle in Kenora has resulted in the arrest and charging of two Manitoba residents. The charges span violations under both the Criminal Code (CC) and the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA).
On October 11, 2023, at around 7:45 p.m., officers from the Kenora Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) acted promptly upon receiving a report about a stolen vehicle in the city. The vehicle was located shortly after, leading the officers to initiate a traffic stop.
Further investigation revealed that the occupants of the vehicle were not only in connection with the stolen vehicle but were also allegedly in possession of suspected methamphetamine and related drug trafficking items.
Zachary GIESBRECHT, a 29-year-old resident of Steinbach, Manitoba, faces charges under both the CC and CDSA, which include:
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000
- Possession of a Schedule I Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking – Methamphetamine
- Possession of a Schedule I Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking – Other Drugs
- Obstruct Peace Officer
- Failure to Comply with Release Order – Other Than to Attend Court
On a similar note, Laura DUMAS, 33, from Winnipeg, Manitoba, has been charged with:
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000
- Possession of a Schedule I Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking – Methamphetamine
- Possession of a Schedule I Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking – Other Drugs
- Failure to Comply with Release Order – Other Than to Attend Court
Both accused are currently in custody. DUMAS is slated for an appearance before the Ontario Court of Justice in Kenora on October 13, 2023, while GIESBRECHT is set to appear on October 16, 2023.
Understanding the Charges:
Under the Criminal Code of Canada, the charge of “Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000” can lead to imprisonment for a term not exceeding ten years if the property is a testamentary instrument or the value of the property exceeds five thousand dollars. The “Failure to Comply with a Release Order” could lead to imprisonment, with the severity depending on the specific terms of the release order and the nature of the original charges.
The Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) defines the severity of drug-related offenses based on the substance’s scheduling. Methamphetamine, classified as a Schedule I substance, is considered one of the most dangerous. Possession for the purpose of trafficking a Schedule I substance can result in imprisonment for life.
“Obstructing a Peace Officer” under the Criminal Code refers to intentionally preventing a peace officer from performing any activity related to his/her duty, which can lead to imprisonment up to two years.
Overcoming Addiction:
Addiction, whether to methamphetamine or other substances, is a complex and multifaceted issue. However, recovery is possible with the right resources and support. Key steps toward overcoming addiction include:
- Acknowledgment: Recognizing the problem is the first step.
- Seek Professional Help: Addiction specialists, therapists, and counsellors can provide guidance.
- Support Groups: Groups like Narcotics Anonymous provide peer support and a sense of community.
- Rehabilitation Centers: Structured programs can offer detox and therapy to help individuals regain control.
- Avoid Triggers: Staying away from environments or people associated with substance use can reduce the risk of relapse.
- Continuous Learning: Staying informed about addiction can empower individuals to stay on track.
For anyone struggling, it’s crucial to remember that help is available, and it’s never too late to seek it. If there are no individuals addicted to these illicit drugs, it puts drug traffickers out of business – a goal worth achieving.
