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of possession for the purpose have been withdrawn.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
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MAP posted-by: Matt