Eight people have been arrested after a search of a property in the area of Read Road and Lakeshore Road in St. Catharines.
Members of the Niagara Regional Police human trafficking and crime unit were investigating alleged illegal activities at the residence, and on Tuesday were given authority to enter and search the house and property.
The following was seized as a result:
- 188 grams in fentanyl
- 154 grams of crack cocaine
- 31 oxycodone pills
- 91 hydromorphones
- 293 grams of crystal meth
- $7,000 in proceeds of crime
- Personal items related to the investigation
The estimated street value of the total drugs seized is $80,000. A large stolen recreational trailer was also located and seized (estimated value of $25,000).
There have been no charges laid in regards to human trafficking at this time, however the incident remains under investigation.
St. Catharines bylaw, officers, the St. Catharines Fire Department, and building inspectors assessed the property for safety concerns and violations under their own authorities. Their investigation and fines remain ongoing.
Brian Mao (38 years old) of St. Catharines, was arrested and charged with the following offences:
- Possession for the purpose of trafficking (four counts)
- Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000
Chelsea Vankekem (30 years old) of no fixed address was arrested and charged with the following offences:
- Possession for the purpose of trafficking (four counts)
- Possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000
David Venketeswaran (52 years old) of St. Catharines was arrested and charged with the following offences:
- Outstanding arrest warrant for fail to attend court
Peter Dipinto (49 years old) of no fixed address was arrested and charged with the following offence:
- Outstanding arrest warrant for fail to attend court
Joseph Fowler (33 years old) of St. Catharines was arrested and charged with the following offence:
- Outstanding arrest warrant for fail to comply
Travis Gillan (54 years old) of Thorold, was arrested and charged with the following offences:
- Outstanding arrest warrant for fail to attend court
- Outstanding warrant for fail to comply
Jason Grove (58 years old) of St. Catharines was arrested and charged with the following offences:
- Outstanding arrest warrant for fail to attend court
Scott Russell (54 years old) of no fixed address was arrested and charged with the following offence:
- Outstanding arrest warrant for fail to attend court
Grove was released on a Form 10-Undertaking with a future court date.
All remaining accused were sent to bail pending a video bail hearing that took place on Tuesday in St. Catharines.
Anyone with information is asked to contact detectives at 905-688-4111, option 3, ext. 1009231.
Members of the public who wish to provide information anonymously can contact Crime Stoppers of Niagara online or by calling 1-800-222-8477. Crime Stoppers offers cash rewards to persons who contact the program with information which leads to an arrest.
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