Three arrested and $30,000 worth of drugs seized in Constance Lake First Nation following a police raid. Charges include drug trafficking and firearm offenses

CONSTANCE LAKE, ON – A significant drug bust in Constance Lake First Nation has resulted in the seizure of approximately $30,000 worth of illegal narcotics and the arrest of three individuals.

On the evening of Tuesday, August 27, members of the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service’s Intelligence Unit and Emergency Response Team executed a search warrant at a residence on Machitch Crescent in Constance Lake First Nation. The search was part of an ongoing investigation into drug trafficking activities linked to the home.

During the search, police discovered and seized a variety of narcotics, including Crystal Methamphetamine, OxyContin pills, Methamphetamine pills, and Hydromorphone pills. In addition, cash, a firearm, and other items consistent with drug trafficking were also confiscated. The estimated street value of the drugs is over $30,000 CAD.

Arrests and Charges

Three individuals were arrested without incident on the evening of August 27:

• Curtis BUNTING, 40, of Constance Lake First Nation has been charged with:
  • Possession of Crystal Methamphetamine for the Purpose of Trafficking
  • Possession of Methamphetamine for the Purpose of Trafficking
  • Possession of OxyContin for the Purpose of Trafficking
  • Possession of Hydromorphone for the Purpose of Trafficking
  • Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5,000
  • Knowledge of Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
  • Careless Storage of a Firearm, Weapon, Prohibited Device or Ammunition
  • Possession of a Firearm or Ammunition Contrary to Prohibition Order
  • Failure to Comply with Release Order
• Kimberly BAXTER, 33, of Constance Lake First Nation faces charges of:
  • Possession of Crystal Methamphetamine for the Purpose of Trafficking
  • Possession of Methamphetamine for the Purpose of Trafficking
  • Possession of OxyContin for the Purpose of Trafficking
  • Possession of Hydromorphone for the Purpose of Trafficking
  • Knowledge of Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm
  • Careless Storage of a Firearm, Weapon, Prohibited Device or Ammunition
  • Failure to Comply with Undertaking
• Wilfred Victor SUTHERLAND, 64, of Constance Lake First Nation is charged with:
  • Possession of Oxycodone for the Purpose of Trafficking

BUNTING and BAXTER appeared in bail court on Wednesday, August 28, and have been remanded into custody pending their next court appearance. SUTHERLAND was released with conditions and is scheduled for a future court date.