A drug investigation at the Bowden Institution has resulted in charges after a year and a half long investigation. In Nov. of 2019, Bowden Institution staff responded to suspicious activity on Correctional Service Canada's property. A search was conducted that resulted in locating contraband that had been concealed on the property. The contraband packages contained fentanyl, methamphetamine, cannabis concentrates and tobacco. Innisfail RCMP General Investigation Section worked on the investigation in partnership with the Bowden Institution's Security Intelligence Office and Slave Lake RCMP General Investigation Section.
A 32-year-old male, a 31-year-old male and a 23-year-old male, all of Slave Lake, Alta., have been charged with the following:
- Trafficking a controlled substance, contrary to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (x2),
- Distribute Cannabis, contrary to the Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Act, and
- Trespass by night.
The 32-year-old male and the 31-year-old male were arrested, and after a judicial release hearing, were remanded into custody. After a subsequent bail hearing, the 32-year-old male was released. The 32-year-old male's and the 31-year-old male's next court appearances are both scheduled for Aug. 19, 2021, in Red Deer Provincial Court. The 23-year-old male remains at large with outstanding warrants for his arrest.
Innisfail RCMP encourage the public to report any criminal or suspicious activity. Reports tell us where to look, who to look for, and where to patrol in the future. If you see a crime in progress, dial 911. If you wish to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the "P3 Tips" app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.