Thunder Bay OPP concludes drug investigation with five arrests. Cocaine, methamphetamine, and firearms seized
Months-Long Operation Leads to Significant Seizures
THUNDER BAY – NEWS – The Thunder Bay Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Community Street Crime Unit (CSCU) has concluded a months-long investigation into regional drug trafficking, resulting in the arrest of five individuals and the seizure of significant quantities of drugs, firearms, and related materials.
The investigation involved coordinated efforts from the Thunder Bay Police Service, Northwest Region Emergency Response Team (ERT), the Repeat Offender Parole Enforcement (ROPE) unit, and other specialized teams.
Details of Arrests and Seized Evidence
On January 15, 2025, a search warrant was executed in Thunder Bay, leading to the seizure of the following items:
- 142.18g of cocaine
- 305g of methamphetamine
- A loaded handgun and two rifles
- Drug trafficking paraphernalia including weigh scales and packaging materials
Later that day, a traffic stop by the ROPE unit resulted in additional arrests and the discovery of cocaine, cash, and a pistol magazine. The following day, another warrant execution yielded further quantities of methamphetamine and firearms.
Charges Filed Against Five Suspects
The following individuals have been charged:
- Joe ROBINSON (22, Thunder Bay): Multiple counts of firearm-related offenses, drug trafficking, and possession of property obtained by crime.
- Matthew VILLENEUVE (22, Atikokan): Drug trafficking and possession of property obtained by crime.
- Jeremy BERTIN (44, Calgary): Drug trafficking, possession of property obtained by crime, and failure to comply with release orders.
- Ashley BROWN (38, Thunder Bay): Drug trafficking and possession of property obtained by crime.
- Charlene KOWAL (64, Thunder Bay): Drug trafficking and possession of property obtained by crime.
Potential Penalties for Convicted Offenses
The charges include trafficking under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, which carries a potential life sentence for severe cases. Unauthorized possession of firearms may result in up to 10 years in prison. Repeat offenders or those violating parole face additional penalties.
How Residents Can Identify and Report Drug Activity
Drug trafficking impacts community safety and well-being. Recognizing and reporting suspicious activity is crucial.
Signs of a Drug House:
- Frequent Visitors: High foot traffic at all hours.
- Short Stays: Visitors entering and leaving quickly.
- Excessive Security: Covered windows or numerous security cameras.
- Strange Odors: Chemical smells or unusual activity.
Residents are encouraged to report suspected drug activity to the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or anonymously via Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
By working together, the community and law enforcement can reduce the harm caused by drug trafficking in Thunder Bay.
