An investigation into a suspected “dial-a-dope” operation in Grande Prairie has led to charges against four people. The Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team says its investigation began in late December 2017 after it heard about drug trafficking activity.
ALERT’s organized crime and gang team and local mounties searched a home in the city on January 22nd, turning up drugs, a stolen gun, and more than $34,000 in cash.
“This is another example of a successful partnership between ALERT and local RCMP that removed a firearm and dangerous substances from our streets,” says Corporal Chris Warren. “We will continue to target these criminal activities in efforts to reduce crime in our neighbourhoods.”
Among the seizure was 85 grams of cocaine, 11.5 grams of meth, 65 millilitres of GHB, and one gram of magic mushrooms, along with a Ruger .22-250 calibre rifle, brass knuckles, and the money. Police say the gun had been reported stolen after a break and enter in Debolt earlier this month.
38 year old Kenneth Erskine, 27 year old Matthew Roberti, 44 year old Tara Cartwright, and 31 year old Alexander Kalashnikoff are all facing charges related to drug trafficking and possession of the proceeds of crime. Erskine is also wanted for related crime on Vancouver Island, and the other three are charged with weapons-related offences.
Residents are encouraged to report any suspected drug or gang activity in their community to local police or Crime Stoppers.
