Sault drug bust leads to arrest, charges, $80K in seized drugs

Sault police seize $80K in suspected drugs A man is facing charges and about $80,000 worth of suspected cocaine & fentanyl was seized in an joint police operation in Sault Ste. Marie.

A Sault drug bust last weekend has resulted in the seizure of $80,000 in suspected drugs, including fentanyl and cocaine, along with an arrest, police say.

Sault police seizure - March 31 The Sault Ste. Marie Police Service seized an estimated $80,000 in suspected cocaine and fentanyl following a search of four Sault area residences on March 31, 2024 during a joint investigation with Ontario Provincial Police. (Supplied/Sault Ste. Marie Police Service)

In October 2023, detectives with the Sault Ste. Marie Police Service and members of Ontario Provincial Police began an investigation into the large quantities of cocaine being distributed in the city.

Through funding from the province, the Criminal Intelligence Service Ontario supported the Sault police in the joint investigation.

On March 31 at about 6:45 p.m., police stopped a vehicle and arrested a 24-year-old man.

“A subsequent search found the accused to be in possession of approximately 54 grams of suspected cocaine packaged in numerous small bags,” said police in a news release.

“The accused was lodged in police custody while officers safely and successfully executed search warrants.”

Searches were conducted at four area residences; the 400 block of Parliament Street, the 100 block of Edmonds Avenue, the 100 block of Elmwood Avenue and the 200 block of McNabb Street.

“During the search of the residences, officers located and seized approximately 725 grams of suspected cocaine, approximately 15 grams of suspected fentanyl, weigh scales and $53,300 in Canadian currency,” said police.

Police said the estimated street value of the drugs seized was $80,000.

Officers took four people into custody during the investigation with three being released unconditionally.

The 24-year-old accused was charged with possession of property obtained by crime along with two drug trafficking offences.

The accused was released following a bail hearing.

“This arrest is a small victory in our ongoing battle against those profiting from addiction,” said Sault police chief Hugh Stevenson.

“The success of this operation is a testament to the dedication of our officers and, though significant, is merely a step in our relentless efforts to hold traffickers accountable and make our community safer.”

None of the allegations has been proven in court.