An investigation into overdose deaths in Drumheller has lead to charges against two individuals.
Drumheller residents Scott Painter, 28 and Angela Orr, 38 are facing drug and possession charges as a result of the bust last week.
Four homes were searched by ALERT and RCMP, including three in Drumheller and one in Red Deer, with an estimated $50,000 worth of drugs seized.
The investigation began after Drumheller experienced a series of suspected fentanyl overdoses in late February. While the investigations are not directly linked, ALERT believes the arrests will have an impact on fentanyl supply in the region.
“The tragedy Drumheller experienced is a heartache that many Albertans have shared in struggling with the opioid crisis. Organized crime has exploited vulnerable people in our communities, and this investigation is indicative of the swift and aggressive response ALERT has taken to disrupt and dismantle fentanyl trafficking,” said Supt. Dwayne Lakusta, ALERT CEO.
In total, ALERT and the RCMP seized nearly $50,000 worth of drugs, including one handgun; 95 grams of fentanyl; 379 grams of methamphetamine; 41 grams of cocaine; and various prohibited weapons.
“Many Drumheller area community members have been devastated by the senseless acts of those trafficking in illicit drugs, including fentanyl,” said Staff Sgt. Ed Bourque, Drumheller RCMP Detachment Commander.
“These initiatives resulted in another significant seizure of fentanyl from within our small community. Our teams will continue to work diligently, and are committed to proactively identifying these drug traffickers and conducting investigations into their activities, particularly those which have resulted in death.”