BONNYVILLE – A drug trafficking investigation that spanned several months within the Town and MD of Bonnyville has concluded.
The investigation has resulted in the arrest of four people, with numerous drug and weapons-related charges being laid.
The Bonnyville RCMP, with the assistance of the Lakeland and Eastern District Crime Reduction Units, executed multiple search warrants with several arrests being made.
“Drug abuse has a devastating impact on our communities,” stated Bonnyville Staff Sgt. Sarah Parke. “Focusing our efforts on these drug traffickers can have a larger impact on violence and property crimes as well.”
During the investigation police have reported to have located and seized 30.4 grams of methamphetamine, 62.5 grams of cocaine, and a stolen 2013 Subaru Impreza.
Police have also reported to have seized tasers, an imitation firearm, a crossbow, Canadian currency and other drug trafficking paraphernalia.
Those arrested in relation to the drug trafficking investigation include four Bonnyville area residents.
Lionel Normand, 65, was arrested on Aug. 16, while Ronnie Vachone, 24, Kevin Madden, 46, and Ashley Gaulton, 36, were all arrested on July 4.
Normand is facing two counts of trafficking methamphetamine, possession of methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking, possession of cocaine, operation of a vehicle while impaired, and operation of a vehicle while prohibited.
Normand was taken before a Justice of the Peace and was remanded into custody. The 65-year-olds' next court date is set for Aug. 22, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Bonnyville.
Vachone was charged with three counts of trafficking cocaine, possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking, two counts of unauthorized possession of a prohibited weapon and carrying a concealed weapon.
The 24-year-old was taken before a Justice of the Peace and was released from custody. His next court date is set for Sept. 19, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Bonnyville.
Madden faces charges of possession of methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking as well as refusal to comply.
The 46-year-old was taken before a Justice of the Peace and was released from custody with his next court date set for Sept. 5, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Bonnyville.
Gaulton was charged with possession of methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking.
The 36-year-old was taken before a Justice of the Peace and released from custody. Her next court date is set for Sept. 5, at the Alberta Court of Justice in Bonnyville.
