Routine Call Leads to $18,000 Fentanyl Seizure in Kenora
Kenora OPP seized $18,000 worth of fentanyl, arresting a suspect on multiple charges. Learn about penalties and tips to combat the opioid crisis
KENORA, ON – A routine call for service on January 20, 2025, led Kenora Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) officers to seize 26.26 grams of suspected fentanyl valued at approximately $18,000. The arrest of a Kenora resident also uncovered cash, weapons, and cell phones, further underscoring the seriousness of drug-related crimes in the community.
Arrest and Criminal Charges
Police attended a reported case of an unwanted individual at a Kenora address. Upon arrival, they arrested 28-year-old Kerry Lynn Assin and seized the illicit substances. Assin is facing several charges under the Criminal Code of Canada and the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, including:
- Possession of a Schedule I Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking – Opioid
- Penalty upon conviction: Up to life imprisonment, reflecting the gravity of opioid trafficking and its impact on public health and safety.
- Personation with Intent to Avoid Arrest, Prosecution, or Obstruct Justice
- Penalty upon conviction: Up to 10 years imprisonment, depending on the severity of the offense.
- Possession of Proceeds of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5,000
- Penalty upon conviction: Up to 2 years imprisonment.
- Possession of Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose
- Penalty upon conviction: Up to 10 years imprisonment.
- Carrying a Concealed Weapon
- Penalty upon conviction: Up to 5 years imprisonment.
- Failure to Comply with a Release Order
- Penalty upon conviction: Up to 2 years imprisonment.
The accused remains in custody and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Kenora on January 21, 2025.
OPP Commitment to Public Safety
The OPP is steadfast in its commitment to tackling the opioid crisis and preventing illicit drug trafficking. Community members are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
Tips for Fighting the Opioid Crisis
The opioid crisis continues to devastate families and communities across Northwestern Ontario. To help address this issue, consider the following tips:
- Educate Yourself and Others
Learn about the dangers of opioid misuse and share resources on safe prescription use and disposal. - Support Community Programs
Advocate for harm reduction services, such as supervised consumption sites, and support organizations that provide treatment and recovery programs. - Promote Prevention
Work with local schools and community groups to offer education on the risks of substance abuse and the importance of mental health. - Encourage Anonymous Reporting
If you suspect drug trafficking in your neighborhood, report it to law enforcement or Crime Stoppers. Anonymous tips save lives. - Reduce Stigma
Support individuals in recovery by fostering an environment of compassion and understanding. Stigma can prevent people from seeking the help they need.
A Call to Action
Drug trafficking and opioid misuse are complex issues requiring a collective effort from law enforcement, health services, and the community. If you see something, say something. Together, we can create a safer and healthier future for Kenora and the broader Northwestern Ontario region.
