Man facing more than 30 charges makes first court appearance

One of three Lethbridge people arrested following a police raid last week on a southside home made his first appearance in provincial court Monday.

Shaun Ryan Hlavach addressed court by telephone from the Lethbridge Correctional Centre, where he is in COVID-19 isolation. Court was told the accused does not have a lawyer yet, and the matter was adjourned to Thursday, ostensibly for a bail hearing.

“I’ll get a lawyer on it right away,” Hlavach said.

Federal Crown prosecutor Mark Klassen noted he is opposed to the accused’s release.

Lethbridge police were looking for drugs when they searched a home Thursday in the 800 block of 16 Street South. The explosive disposal unit was called in, however, after police noticed several suspicious packages. The explosives unit confirmed the items were improvised explosive devices.

Police reportedly found seven explosive devices, along with suspected fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine, over $13,000 in cash, stolen property and ID documents, and various items one of the suspects was prohibited from possessing.

Hlavach faces more than 30 charges, comprising multiple counts of drug possession for the purpose of trafficking, possession of proceeds of crime over $5,000, possession of a prohibited weapon, knowingly possessing a prohibited weapon, unauthorized possession of a prohibited weapon, possession of an explosive substance, possession of stolen property, possession of identity documents.

Hlavach also has unrelated charges under the Traffic Safety Act, for which he is wanted on outstanding warrants.

Allyson Lauren Deal was charged with three counts of drug possession and unauthorized possession of a prohibited weapon. Her court appearance is set for Nov. 6.

Jocko Slade Trotter was charged with failing to comply with a release order. His court appearance is set for Nov. 24.

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