MARATHON, ON – On November 7, 2024, a collaborative operation by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) in Marathon led to drug trafficking charges against three individuals following a search warrant executed on Howe Street. Members from the Marathon OPP, Community Street Crime Unit (CSCU), and the OPP Emergency Response Team conducted the search and seized a quantity of suspected cocaine, methamphetamine, and other items believed to be related to criminal activities.
Details of the Charges and Accused Individuals
During the search, law enforcement officers seized controlled substances and various items connected to alleged trafficking operations. The accused individuals face multiple charges under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) and the Criminal Code of Canada.
Joshua BEDARD, 40, of Marathon, Ontario
Joshua Bedard has been charged with the following offenses:
- Possession of a Schedule I Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking – Methamphetamine: This charge is outlined under Section 5(2) of the CDSA, where trafficking or possession with intent to traffic a Schedule I substance like methamphetamine can lead to imprisonment, with maximum penalties of life imprisonment depending on the case severity.
- Possession of a Schedule I Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking – Cocaine (two counts): Trafficking or possession for trafficking purposes involving cocaine can result in penalties of up to life imprisonment.
- Possession of Firearm or Ammunition Contrary to Prohibition Order: Violating a prohibition order under Section 117.01(1) of the Criminal Code carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.
- Unauthorized Possession of a Weapon: Under Section 91(2) of the Criminal Code, unauthorized weapon possession can result in imprisonment for up to five years.
- Possession of Unmarked Cigarettes: While typically a violation of provincial regulations, the penalties can include fines and, in some cases, imprisonment if associated with other criminal charges.
Jacques BEDARD, 64, and Gertrude WALSH, 64, Both of Marathon, Ontario
Jacques Bedard and Gertrude Walsh have each been charged with:
- Possession of a Schedule I Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking – Methamphetamine
- Possession of a Schedule I Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking – Cocaine (two counts)
- Possession of Unmarked Cigarettes
Next Steps in Legal Proceedings
All three accused individuals have been released from custody on conditions and are scheduled to appear in the Ontario Court of Justice in Marathon on January 22, 2025.
Reminder of Legal Rights
As mandated by Canadian law, all individuals accused of a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. This presumption of innocence is a cornerstone of the Canadian justice system, ensuring fair treatment for all individuals.
Appeal for Public Assistance
If you have information that may assist the ongoing investigation, please contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or online at Ontario Crime Stoppers. Eligible tips may receive a cash reward of up to $2,000.
