FORT FRANCES, ON – A routine traffic stop turned into a significant drug and weapons bust in Fort Frances on August 31, 2024, after an officer with the Fort Frances Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) pulled over a known suspended driver.
Around 4:30 p.m., the officer stopped a vehicle in the 800 block of King’s Highway after recognizing the suspended driver. The driver was immediately arrested, and a subsequent search of the vehicle led to further charges.
Key Findings:
- The search uncovered a variety of illegal substances, resulting in the arrest of both the driver and a passenger. Items seized include:
- Approximately $2,100 in Canadian and American currency
- Suspected fentanyl, crystal methamphetamine, and Percocet tablets
- Around 400 unmarked cigarettes
- Open liquor
- A scale
- Two collapsible batons
Charges Laid:
- Erik Scott LAPISH, 52, of Fort Frances faces multiple charges, including:
- Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose (two counts)
- Possession of Schedule I substances for trafficking (three counts)
- Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000
- Driving while under suspension
- Operating an unsafe vehicle
- Possession and sale of unmarked cigarettes without a permit
LAPISH is currently in custody and will appear in the Fort Frances Ontario Court of Justice for a bail hearing on September 3, 2024. Additional charges will be addressed on November 8, 2024, in Provincial Offences Court.
- Carrie Lynn KELLAR, 43, of Fort Frances is charged with:
- Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose
- Possession of Schedule I substances for trafficking (three counts)
- Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000
KELLAR has been released and is scheduled to appear in court on November 4, 2024.
Community Involvement: Anyone with information related to this crime or similar activities is encouraged to contact the Rainy River District OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or online at tipshelp.com.
