A year-long RCMP investigation into drug trafficking at the Drumheller Institution has led to multiple arrests and charges against three Alberta residents.
The investigation began in November 2023 when staff at the Correctional Service of Canada facility in Drumheller discovered a package containing methamphetamine, fentanyl, cell phones, and nicotine patches.
Drumheller RCMP General Investigations Section (GIS) officers later found a drone near the prison, which they believe was used to smuggle contraband into the facility.
With assistance from several RCMP units and the Edmonton Police Service Robbery Unit, officers executed search warrants on April 17, 2024, at a residence in Cold Lake and a vehicle seized by police.
During the searches, officers found drones and drone parts, cell phones, evidence of drone use, and a loaded handgun.
As a result, 39-year-old Chance Dunne, of Cold Lake, and 34-year-old Daniel McDonald, of Edmonton, were charged with conspiracy to traffic controlled drugs and trafficking fentanyl and methamphetamine.
Dunne and 26-year-old Charessa Slade, of Bonnyville, were also charged with firearm-related offences, including possession of a prohibited firearm and possession of a firearm with an altered serial number. Additionally, Dunne faces further drug trafficking and firearm possession charges.
Slade was arrested on January 21, and released on an undertaking to appear in Drumheller court on March 21. Dunne remains in custody on unrelated matters and is scheduled for a court appearance on March 28. An arrest warrant for McDonald was executed by Wetaskiwin RCMP on January 30, and he is awaiting a bail hearing.