Five Search Warrants Executed in Geraldton

GREENSTONE, ON – A significant police operation in Geraldton, spearheaded by the Greenstone Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), has led to the arrest of five individuals on various drug-related charges. This operation, involving several specialized OPP units and the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service, marks a major crackdown on drug trafficking in the region.

On December 6, 2023, the OPP, alongside the Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau, Community Street Crime Unit, Emergency Response Team, Canine Unit, Offender Transport Unit, and the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service, executed five search warrants in Geraldton. This action forms part of an extensive ongoing investigation into local drug activities.

The raids resulted in the confiscation of significant quantities of suspected cocaine, methamphetamine, and ecstasy. Additionally, Canadian currency, various items linked to drug trafficking, and a motor vehicle were seized.

The individuals arrested face multiple charges under the Criminal Code (CC) and the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA). The details of the charges are as follows:

• Dylan BILODEAU, 30, of Geraldton, faces charges including unauthorized possession of a weapon, two counts of trafficking in a Schedule I substance (methamphetamine), possession of proceeds of crime under $5,000, and two counts of failure to comply with a probation order.
• Andrew SUTHERLAND, 25, of Geraldton, is charged with trafficking in a Schedule I substance (methamphetamine), conspiracy to commit an indictable offence, possession of proceeds obtained by crime under $5,000, and two counts of failure to comply with a probation order.
• Justin CHALIFOUX, 28, of Geraldton, faces charges including trafficking in a Schedule I substance (cocaine), possession of proceeds obtained by crime under $5,000, and failure to comply with a release order.
• John CYR, 52, of Geraldton, is charged with two counts of trafficking in a Schedule I substance (cocaine) and possession for the purpose of trafficking (cocaine).
• Julie HINCE, 48, of Geraldton, faces charges including trafficking in a Schedule I substance (cocaine) and possession of proceeds obtained by crime under $5,000.

All accused are currently held in custody and await a bail hearing at the Ontario Court of Justice in Geraldton on a later date.

This ongoing investigation underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to combat the illegal drug trade. The public is encouraged to support these efforts by reporting any information related to illegal drug possession and trafficking to the OPP at 1-888-310-1122, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).