Pubdate: Fri, 11 Aug 2017 Source: Ottawa Citizen (CN ON) Copyright: 2017 Postmedia Network Inc. Contact: http://www.ottawacitizen.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/326 Author: Chris Renwick Page: A11 DISPUTED DRUG BUST JUSTIFIED, POLICE SAY Re: 'I lost everything': Ottawa man loses home after false fentanyl bust, Ottawa Citizen, July 31. The Caldwell Avenue apartment was well known to both Ottawa Police patrol officers and Ottawa Community Housing due to the heavy traffic and disruptive drug activities. Officers and paramedics were dispatched twice to the apartment in April 2017 for people who had overdosed. In light of prevalent drug consumption at the apartment and concerns for public safety, the Ottawa Police Drug Unit began an investigation into the suspected sale of controlled substances. A thorough investigation confirmed activity consistent with drug trafficking, and a search warrant was executed on April 25. A number of items were seized, including 15.5 grams of a substance believed to the fentanyl, 154.6 grams of an unknown powder, one hydromorph pill, 11 controlled substance pills, as well as four scales and "debt" lists. This confirmed that the apartment was the site of trafficking activity and several persons found within were charged jointly with possession for that purpose. It is correct to say that the Health Canada drug analysis report on the substance returned negative for fentanyl. As a result, the charges of possession for the purpose have been withdrawn. This does not negate the evidence of trafficking found in the apartment. While the absence of fentanyl rules out the prospect of a conviction, the basis for the drug unit investigation and subsequent charges remain. Our drug unit is in contact with Health Canada to find out what the substance could be and whether it may contain an analog of a synthetic opiate. With the reality of fentanyl impacting our community, the drug-related activities in the Caldwell apartment were a true concern to the community, Ottawa Community Housing and police. As such, it is my belief that our officers responded appropriately and responsibly. The Ottawa Police remain committed to ensuring public safety. We will continue to investigate and charge people who put the lives of others at risk. Supt. Chris Renwick, Criminal Investigations Directorate, Ottawa Police Service - --- MAP posted-by: Matt