BORDER OFFICER FACES CHARGE IN SMUGGLING PROBE

The RCMP says a Canada Border Services Agency officer has been charged in a smuggling investigation. The Mounties say the arrest came as part of an investigation that focused on a criminal organization allegedly smuggling tobacco into Canada from the U.S. They allege the smuggling activities were facilitated by a CBSA border services officer in Fort Erie, Ont. Investigators say arrests and seizures were made in Canada and the U.S. Police say 37-year-old Chad Gale of Welland, Ont., is charged with breach of trust by a public officer. CBSA regional director Rick Comerford called it a very serious matter. “It is an isolated incident and in no way reflects the integrity and professionalism of the thousands of dedicated CBSA officers who carry out their duties each day in an exemplary manner,” Comerford added.