Police lay charges in Ctrain operation to dismantle drug trafficking
Eight people are facing a slew of drug and weapons charges after a Calgary police crackdown on crime at Ctrain stations in the city's northwest.
Partnering with Calgary Transit peace officers, police launched the operation after reports of an increase in overdoses, behaviours consistent with drug trafficking and an increase in calls due to open drug use and violence in the area.
“While it is important to hold those responsible for the violence and drug trafficking accountable, we recognize that some of the individuals charged may be suffering from addiction and require resources and assistance,” said Insp. Jeff Pennoyer of the criminal networks section of the Calgary Police Service.
“The accused persons in this investigation were provided information that would connect them to organizations in Calgary that can assist with social supports, and information on the Drug Treatment Court and the Calgary Indigenous Court for additional support.”
The charges included 16 counts of drug trafficking, nine counts of possession for the purpose of drug trafficking and six counts of possession of a concealed weapon.
“We would like to thank the many units from across the service as well as Calgary Transit Peace Officers for their assistance with this investigation,” said District 2 Insp. Keith Hurley of the Calgary Police Service.
The operation targeting transit stations to quell drug-trafficking and crime isn't the first for the city; last March, a police undercover street team targeted areas along the Ctrain line that received the highest call volume between March 7 and 24. The investigation led to 268 criminal charges being laid. In December, police laid another 212 charges against 27 people, seizing weapons including an axe, knives, Airsoft pistols and bear spray.
A safety strategy was approved by city council last October to curb illicit activities at the train stations, with transit officers stationed at three hubs in problematic areas. The 49-page proposal outlined issues of social disorder, vandalism and crime at train stations.
The $15-million strategy, which is one of the city's top investment priorities for the 2024 budget adjustments, includes hiring 65 additional peace officers to patrol Ctrain lines.