5 arrests in Sturgeon Falls for weapons and drugs in just two weeks

Concerning spike in drug offences locally.

If you find that you are constantly reminding yourself that you do not live in downtown Toronto, Chicago or Los Angeles, you are not alone. Most are finding it very difficult to recognize small town Sturgeon Falls these days.

It appears that every day police arrest individuals for drugs and weapons charges. As of late it is practically every single day. So far in May, in four separate incidents the OPP have charged five people with drugs and weapon offences.

On May 4th, police arrested two people after a search of their vehicle revealed an imitation weapon as well as cannabis, fentanyl and methamphetamine. In a separate incident on the same day, police arrested a 24-year old for carrying a concealed weapon.

The next day the OPP were at it again. They arrested a 45-year old who had stolen a bike. A search of the individual uncovered cocaine, methamphetamine, opioids and other drugs.

Last week, police arrested another person after responding to a domestic disturbance. The 35-year old charged was found with methamphetamine.

All these latest arrests occurred in Sturgeon Falls. Although the last couple of weeks has seen more incidents, the region has seen a concerning trend over the last few months.

Just last month, residents of Field were on high alert when a high-risk manhunt occured in the small neighbourhood. A large police presence led to the eventual arrest of four suspects who were found with more than 90 grams of cocaine.

On February 11th, police arrested a 41-year old in Sturgeon Falls after a search uncovered methamphetamine.

In December, the OPP arrested a 35-year old and a 32-year old for possession of drugs suspected to be fentanyl. In November, the OPP arrested two people in Sturgeon Falls after a drug investigation. Over $113,000 of fentanyl, cocaine, heroin and crystal meth were seized.

In just the past six months, there have been at least 14 individuals charged for drug-related crimes. On an annualized basis this represents a rate of 187 offences per 100,000 residents. The 2022 Canadian average for drug-related offences in 2022 was 136.

The West Nip Voice is a regular newsletter covering issues in West Nipissing and the surrounding area. Please consider becoming a subscriber.