The general public is the best source of information police have in combating drug trafficking, and the RCMP have a recent conviction as an example of that co-operation.
And a recent sentencing of a dealer who last year was peddling crack and Percocet pills in Fort Smith – and later found hiding in Fort Resolution — is an example of the benefits of that co-operation, reads an RCMP release.
Abel Leule of Edmonton was one of two people arrested after a search warrant was executed in November 2023.
On Aug. 9, Leule concluded was found guilty in NWT Supreme Court and sentenced to 19 months in jail, a 20-year firearms prohibition and three years of probation with a condition to remain outside of the Northwest Territories.
“This outcome is a positive one, highlighting the excellent police work and collaboration of “G” Division detachments,” Const. Josh Seaward stated on Friday.
“Fort Resolution RCMP would like to express their thanks to members of the public (who) provided information leading to the arrest and ultimately the conviction of Leule, sending a clear message that drug dealers are not welcome in the community.”
The NWT Emergency Response Team (ERT) assisted in the execution of the warrant on McDougal Road in Fort Smith, resulting in the arrest of two adults, including Leule, then 19, who was subsequently located in Fort Resolution hiding unlawfully in an elder’s residence.
He was charged with trafficking a controlled substance, possession for the purpose of trafficking, being unlawfully in a dwelling house, obstructing a police officer and two counts of failing to comply with court conditions.
The elder had asked RCMP officers to remove Leule from his home.
Leule was found to be in possession of 84 grams of crack cocaine, 35 grams of suspected Percocet and $5,500 dollars in cash.
At that time, RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Matt Halstead stated that drug traffickers target communities and coerce their way into personal residences so they can conduct their business.
“The people that are housing these drug traffickers are sometimes compensated for their silence or other times, too scared to say anything,” stated Halstead.
“This type of activity exploits not only people struggling with addictions but also the vulnerable people in our communities who house these traffickers and are subjected to this illegal and dangerous activity.”
Police ask that if you see or suspect suspicious activity, contact your local detachment or CrimeStoppers at p3tips.com.
