March 5, 2013
Lethbridge…ALERT’s Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit (CFSEU-Lethbridge) wrapped up an investigation into a local dial-a-dope operation with charges against a man currently out on bail for similar offences.
CFSEU-Lethbridge is an integrated team of Lethbridge Regional Police Service (LRPS) members and RCMP who work together to address organized crime in the community.
On March 1, CFSEU-Lethbridge, with assistance from the LRPS Community Policing Patrol Division, conducted a vehicle stop on Highway 3 between Lethbridge and Coaldale where they arrested a man and a woman. A subsequent search of the vehicle resulted in the seizure of $1,440.
Police later obtained a warrant to search a residence in the Mt. Crandell Crescent area where they seized nearly 85 grams of cocaine, a bulletproof vest, $5,925 cash, and other drug trafficking paraphernalia. The cocaine has an estimated street value of $11,000.
While the woman was later released without charges, a 29-year-old Lethbridge man faces numerous charges. Yoas GEZAW is charged with possession for the purpose of trafficking, possession of body armour without a permit, and two counts each of possession of proceeds of crime and breach of recognizance. The accused is in custody and makes his next court appearance on March 7.
To report suspicious activity, contact local police or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
ALERT was established by the Government of Alberta to bring together the province’s most sophisticated law enforcement resources to tackle serious and organized crime. Over 400 municipal police, RCMP and sheriffs work for ALERT.
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Media inquiries may be directed to:
Staff Sergeant Wes Houston
CFSEU-Lethbridge
Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams (ALERT)
403-330-5061
Jill Baird
Communications
Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams (ALERT)
780-509-3028
The work we do is about our communities, and that’s why we recognize that residents can be instrumental in tackling serious crime. If you or someone you know has been the victim of a crime, or you suspect criminal activity, please reach out. Your information will remain strictly confidential.
Thank you for helping to make Alberta safer by being actively involved and reporting suspicious activity.
